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
Hey, let's not forget those who started it all like Bill Monroe. He was the king of bluegrass. Just like Louis was of Jazz and Elvis Rock and Roll. You guys always want to forget bluegrass, but that is music that comes from the heart and soul of America. Country rocks but bluegrass aways rules in my house.
This is definitely "generational". My list of distinctive, instantly recognizable voices would be (not necessarily in order of talent or ability):

Elvis
Sinatra
Billie Holiday
Muddy Waters
and, to a lesser extent, because his voice has changed so much over the years,
Bob Dylan
Think your original "5" are great Garfish, although might swap Sinatra for Cash or Babs, awful close.

Oh, as for the generation thing, beat you to the big 60 (and wish I hadn't won!)

Grandpa Doug