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1. Bettye LaVette – The Soul Survivor
Bettye LaVette’s raw, gritty voice carries decades of pain and triumph. Despite debuting in the 1960s, she never got the recognition she deserved until much later. Her cover of “Love Reign O’er Me” at the 2008 Kennedy Center Honors left even The Who speechless. LaVette’s storytelling through song is unmatched, blending blues, soul, and R&B effortlessly. If you love artists who make you *feel* every lyric, she’s a must-listen.
2. Leon Bridges – Modern Vintage
Leon Bridges brings old-school soul into the 21st century with smooth, honeyed vocals. His 2015 debut album *Coming Home* felt like a lost Sam Cooke record. Though he’s gained some fame, he’s still not as celebrated as similar artists like Bruno Mars. Bridges’ ability to channel retro sounds while keeping them fresh is pure magic. Tracks like “River” and “Beyond” showcase his emotional depth.
3. Valerie June – The Ethereal Songbird
Valerie June’s haunting, Appalachian-tinged voice is unlike anything else in modern music. Blending folk, blues, and gospel, she creates a sound that feels both ancient and brand new. Her album *The Order of Time* is a masterpiece, yet she remains a niche favorite. June’s poetic lyrics and delicate vibrato make her a hidden gem. If you love artists like Joni Mitchell, Valerie June should be on your playlist.
4. Moses Sumney – The Voice of the Future
Moses Sumney’s otherworldly falsetto could make angels jealous. His genre-defying music blends art-pop, soul, and experimental sounds. Despite critical acclaim, he’s still far from mainstream fame. Albums like *Aromanticism* and *græ* showcase his ability to bend sound and emotion. Sumney is an artist who pushes boundaries—think Frank Ocean meets Radiohead.
5. LP – The Rock & Roll Queen
Laura Pergolizzi, aka LP, has one of the most powerful voices in rock today. Known for writing hits for Rihanna and Cher, her own music is criminally underrated. Songs like “Lost on You” and “Muddy Waters” highlight her soaring, raspy vocals. LP’s stage presence is electric, making her live shows unforgettable. If you love raw, emotional rock with a modern twist, she’s your artist.
6. Brittany Howard – The Fiery Force
As the frontwoman of Alabama Shakes, Brittany Howard’s voice is a force of nature. Her solo work, like *Jaime*, proves she’s even more dynamic alone. Howard’s blend of rock, soul, and funk is explosive, yet she’s still overlooked in pop culture. Tracks like “Stay High” and “History Repeats” showcase her vocal range and lyrical genius. She’s one of the greatest living vocalists—period.
7. Thundercat – The Bass-Vocal Virtuoso
Stephen Bruner, aka Thundercat, is a genius bassist—but his voice is just as mesmerizing. His high-pitched, dreamy vocals float over jazz-funk instrumentals. Despite working with Kendrick Lamar and Erykah Badu, he’s still underrated as a singer. Albums like *Drunk* and *It Is What It Is* are packed with humor, heart, and killer vocals.
8. Yola – The Country-Soul Legend
Yola’s rich, velvety voice channels Dolly Parton and Aretha Franklin in equal measure. Her album *Walk Through Fire* is a modern country-soul masterpiece. Despite Grammy nominations, she hasn’t broken into mainstream country. Yola’s songs are full of resilience and warmth, making her a must-listen for any music lover.
9. Fantastic Negrito – The Blues Revolutionary
Fantastic Negrito (Xavier Dphrepaulezz) brings punk energy to classic blues. His raspy, impassioned voice tells stories of struggle and hope. Winning three Grammys hasn’t made him a household name. Tracks like “Lost in a Crowd” and “Plastic Hamburgers” are raw, urgent, and unforgettable.
10. Amber Mark – The R&B Poet
Amber Mark’s silky voice and introspective lyrics make her R&B’s best-kept secret. Her EP *3:33am* and album *Three Dimensions Deep* are full of lush, emotional tracks. Mark’s blend of soul, pop, and hip-hop deserves way more attention.
11. Durand Jones – The Soul Revivalist
Durand Jones leads his band, The Indications, with a voice straight out of Motown. His falsetto is smooth as butter, yet he’s often overshadowed by bigger acts. Songs like “Cruisin’ to the Park” and “Witchoo” are pure joy.
12. Madison Cunningham – The Folk Innovator
Madison Cunningham’s intricate guitar work and crystalline vocals are spellbinding. Her album *Revealer* is a folk-rock gem, but she’s still flying under the radar. Tracks like “Hospital” and “Life According to Raechel” prove her songwriting genius.
13. serpentwithfeet – The Avant-Garde Angel
Josiah Wise’s operatic voice blends R&B, gospel, and experimental sounds. His album *DEACON* is a love letter to queer Black romance. Despite critical praise, he’s still niche—but his talent is undeniable.
14. Sharon Van Etten – The Indie Heartbreaker
Sharon Van Etten’s smoky voice and raw lyrics cut straight to the soul. Albums like *Remind Me Tomorrow* are masterclasses in emotional songwriting. She’s beloved in indie circles but deserves wider fame.
15. Jon Batiste – The Joyful Genius
Jon Batiste’s exuberant voice and piano skills light up every track. From *Soul*’s soundtrack to his solo work, he’s a musical polymath. Even after an Oscar and Grammys, he’s still not a mainstream staple.
Now that you’ve met these incredible voices, who’s going on your playlist first?
Christian Wiedeck, all the way from Germany, loves music festivals, especially in the USA. His articles bring the excitement of these events to readers worldwide.
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