17 Best Singers Like Adele

Lady Gaga

American singer, songwriter, and pianist Lady Gaga has cited the likes of Whitney Houston, Christina Aguilera, and Beyoncé as her influences, which goes a long way toward explaining her presence in this guide.

Gaga has stated her ambition to revolutionize pop music the way Madonna did, and it would seem she is well on her way if she hasn’t already accomplished this feat. Madonna has already said she could see herself in Lady Gaga.

For more Lady Gaga, see “Bloody Mary,” “Bad Romance,” “Poker Face,” “Judas,” “Just Dance,” “Telephone,” and “Alejandro.”

Lorde

New Zealand singer and songwriter Lorde says she was influenced by the likes of Billie Holiday, Etta James, and Rihanna, which might tell you a thing or two about why she’s in this company.

Lorde is still 26 of this writing, but even in a relatively short period of time from 2009 to 2023, she has released three albums, earning her two Grammy Awards, two Brit Awards, and a nomination for a Golden Globe.

Some Lorde hits include “Royals,” “Team,” “Ribs,” “Green Light,” “Tennis Court, “Liability,” and “Perfect Places.”

Ella Henderson

English singer and songwriter Ella Henderson competed in the ninth series of The X Factor UK. She finished in sixth place, even though she was a favorite to win. Henderson signed with Syco Music, releasing her debut album, Chapter One, in 2014.

In 2015, Henderson would go on hiatus. Her second album would not see the light of day until 2022.

Adele was one among many to praise Henderson upon her unexpected exit on The X Factor UK.

Check out “Ghost,” “Yours,” “Brave,” and “Glow.”

Katy Perry

Adele counts the illustrious Katy Perry among her influences. Perry initially pursued a career in gospel music. Her efforts proved fruitless, and a year later, she moved to Los Angeles to get her start in secular music.

It would be several years until the release of One of the Boys in 2008, but the debut single “I Kissed a Girl” sent her through the stratosphere.

Perry has a long list of influences, which include Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Pink, and Gwen Stefani.

If you’re ready for a trip down memory lane, revisit “California Gurls,” “E.T.,” “Roar,” “Hot N Cold,” and “Unconditionally.”

Joss Stone

English singer, songwriter, and actress Joss Stone has been described as the “white Aretha Franklin.” As a matter of fact, Stone is a big fan of American R&B and soul music, especially Aretha Franklin and Dusty Springfield.

I don’t think the comparison to Adele is out of line at all. Adele’s music might have heavier leanings toward pop, and Stone’s might have heavier leanings toward soul, but it’s not hard to pick up some similarities in their voices.

If you want to hear more from Stone, see “Super Duper Love,” “Right to Be Wrong,” “L-O-V-E,” “You Had Me,” and “Fell in Love With a Boy.”

Duffy

Welsh singer, songwriter, and actress Duffy is often mentioned in the same breath as Adele, and like Adele, she’s doubtless benefited from the trail Amy Winehouse blazed.

There’s no squinting your ears here – from the opening notes of “Mercy,” it’s clear Duffy has got that Winehouse / Adele thing on lock.

You can also explore her “Warwick Avenue,” “Rockferry,” “Syrup & Honey,” “I’m Scared,” “Rain on Your Parade,” and “Well, Well, Well,” among others.

Lana Del Rey

American singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey is well-known for her infinitely expressive voice.

She counts Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, Julie London, and Amy Winehouse among her influences, which might explain why you’re picking up Adele vibes from her singing.

But let’s face it – like it or hate it – Del Rey could probably pull off just about anything. She could honestly sing circles around most.

If you need a refresher, see “Doin’ Time,” “West Coast,” “Say Yes to Heaven,” “Ride,” “Cinnamon Girl,” and “Diet Mountain Dew.”

Stevie Nicks

American singer and songwriter Stevie “Reigning Queen of Rock and Roll” Nicks is best known as the lead singer of Fleetwood Mac. But her solo career hasn’t been a total flop either. Adele has great admiration for Nicks.

And that’s not surprising. Nicks was named one of the 100 Greatest Songwriters of All Time, one of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time, and she has even been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice (for Fleetwood Mac and her solo work).

Chances are you’ve heard her masterful performances on “The Chain,” “Dreams,” “Landslide,” “Go Your Own Way,” “Gyspy,” and “Little Lies.”

Singers Like Adele, Final Thoughts

God willing, Adele will still have a long career ahead of her. But isn’t it nice to know that there are singers who sound a lot like her?

Did you find some new singers to follow? We hope you enjoyed this guide. Come back soon for more.