5 most recognizable voices in American music?


While watching CNNs Larry King interview Johnny Cash a few days ago, I commented to my wife that Johnny Cash probably has one of the five most recognizable voices in American music today. My wife agreed and then asked "Well who are the other four?" After some discussion, we came up with our nominations (in no particular order):

Johnny Cash
Elvis Presley
Ray Charles
Barbra Streisand
Louie Armstrong

This question probably assumes that the singer is quite famous and that their music has been around quite awhile-- or they became really famous really fast. We'd be interested in knowing what other A'Gon members think about these five, or others you would nominate instead for this "top five"? Thanks. Craig
garfish
I assume this combines popularity and distinctive tone (maybe phrasing, too) - If you play a less well known Louis Armstrong song for 100 random people, you'll probably have a pretty high hit rate.  Using those criteria, I'd add Stevie Nicks and Barry White




I love it when a thread from 10 years ago pops up again! 

For pure recognition Adele has got to be near the top if we poll the random public. Short memories rule. Most under 30 could not identify Willie, Johnny Cash, even Sinatra or Ella.

If we are adding iconic voices for this crowd, let's mention Bowie, Freddy Mercury, Tom Waits, Donald Fagen, Van Morrison, Rickie Lee Jones, Chrissie Hynde & Joni Mitchell to the list. Cheers,
Spencer
Nobody mentioned Tony Bennett!

Also, the late great Leon Russell, a very recognizable voice.