30 Best American Male Singers

Jim Morrison

Best known as the lead vocalist of The Doors, Jim Morrison is considered one of the greatest frontmen and singers in rock history, a feat he achieved in his altogether too short 27 years.

The Doors would be founded in 1965, initially finding very little success. Two years after inception, they would release “Light My Fire,” which became a chart-topping hit.

Morrison would record six studio albums with The Doors, all of which enjoyed commercial and critical success.

Tom Petty

Tom Petty enjoyed widespread success as a solo artist, as a leader or member of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Mudcrutch, and even the supergroup, Traveling Wilburys, which included Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, George Harrison, and Jeff Lynne.

Petty sang and wrote much as his peers did, mostly opting for a “less is more” philosophy. At first brush, he may not appear an impressive singer, but he has a very memorable voice.

You’ve heard him on countless hits, like “Free Fallin’,” “I Won’t Back Down,” “Don’t Do Me Like That,” and “Don’t Come Around Here No More,” among many others.

John Denver

When it comes to 1970s acoustic folk music, it’s hard to think of a singer more prominent than John Denver. Getting his start in the late 1960s, Denver would become one of the best-selling performers by 1974, seemingly effortlessly.

He remained prolific during his 35-year run, releasing about 300 songs, with over 30 albums and singles of his being certified Gold and Platinum.

 You will no doubt know him for “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Rocky Mountain High,” and “Sunshine on My Shoulders,” among others.

James Brown

James “Godfather of Soul” Brown had an impressive 50-year run in music, heavily influencing the development of soul, R&B, and funk in the process.

His career wasn’t always on the “straight and narrow,” and was often marked by disputes with his band and dips in popularity. But with funk music, he found a mainstay and a new generation would begin to point to Brown as being one of their key influences, elevating his status in the process.

If you need a refresher, check out “I Got You (I Feel Good),” “Living in America,” and “Get Up Offa That Thing.”

Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong is one of jazz's most influential trumpeters and vocalists. His rise to fame was not instantaneous but was marked by many small wins on the way up.

His career began in 1919, but it would not be until the 1950s that he would be recognized as a musical icon. What matters is that he got there.

His singing prowess is in no way in question. Armstrong was adept at improvising and scat singing, and his deep gravelly voice is instantly recognizable, even today.

Have a listen to “What a Wonderful World,” “Dream a Little Dream of Me,” and “When You’re Smiling.”

Bing Crosby

The man responsible for influencing Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, was no slouch either. Recording over 1,600 songs, and making over 70 feature films, Crosby rose to become a worldwide cultural icon.

Besides Sinatra, Crosby is said to have influenced Dean Martin, Perry Como, Elvis Presley, and even John Lennon, among others.

If in doubt, refer to “White Christmas,” “Swinging On A Star,” and “Winter Wonderland.”

Roy Orbison

Many would say Roy Orbison’s career ended altogether a little too early. But during his 35-year run, he left an indelible mark on music.

His passionate singing style caught the attention of many, and in a time when most singers relied on a “macho” image, his vulnerable and emotional approach to music stuck out like a sore thumb.

Orbison was also a member of the supergroup Traveling Wilburys.

Some of his most remembered works include “Oh, Pretty Woman,” “Only the Lonely,” and “Crying.”

Sam Cooke

Sam “King of Soul” Cooke is known as one of the all-time most influential soul artists. He is even credited with popularizing gospel music among the young. Due to tragic circumstances, his career only lasted eight years. But 49 of his singles ended up charting in the Top 40.

Cooke is known for hits like “You Send Me,” “Cupid,” “Chain Gang,” “A Change Is Gonna Come,” and “Another Saturday Night,” among others.

Chuck Berry

As with Jimi Hendrix, Chuck Berry may have been more of an axeman than a singer, but as a pioneer of rock and roll, there is no overestimating his importance in the history of music.

Berry influenced artists like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, and countless guitarists like Jimi Hendrix too.

You will know him for hits like “Johnny B. Goode,” “Roll Over Beethoven,” and “Maybellene.”

Neil Diamond

Neil Diamond, still alive and well, has had an impressive career in music. He’s one of the best-selling artists of all time, and he’s had 10 chart-topping singles, like “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers,” “Yesterday’s Songs,” and “Cracklin’ Rosie.” But let’s face facts – most people know him for “Sweet Caroline.”

His success might be one of the most impressive things about him. His story is primarily one of passion and obsession – diligently working on music everywhere he goes.