10 Best Singers in India
India’s rich musical heritage has shaped the landscape of music in the country for centuries. From the classical ragas of North India to the mesmerizing melodies of South India, music has been woven into the fabric of India’s cultural identity. But when we talk about the 10 Best Singers in India, we find that these voices transcend all boundaries—capturing hearts across generations and geographies.
The role of these artists is not limited to just singing; they are storytellers, they evoke emotions, and they make us feel deeply connected to the art form. The magic lies in their ability to blend tradition with innovation, crafting songs that remain unforgettable long after they’ve been heard.
In this article, we explore the top 10 singers who have left an indelible mark on Indian music, ranging from Bollywood icons to classical maestros. Their voices are as diverse as the cultures and languages of India, and their influence continues to be felt today.
Best Singers in India
| Rank | Singer Name | Genre(s) | Major Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lata Mangeshkar | Playback singing, Classical | Icon of Indian music, numerous hits in Bollywood |
| 2 | Kishore Kumar | Playback singing, Bollywood | Best known for his versatile voice and timeless classics |
| 3 | Mohammed Rafi | Playback singing, Classical | Master of melody and romantic ballads |
| 4 | Asha Bhosle | Playback singing, Classical | Known for her unmatched range and versatility |
| 5 | Udit Narayan | Playback singing | Popular for his melodious voice in 90s Bollywood |
| 6 | Alka Yagnik | Playback singing | Icon of the 90s with countless hits |
| 7 | S. P. Balasubrahmanyam | Playback singing, Carnatic | Known for his extraordinary voice and range |
| 8 | Sunidhi Chauhan | Playback singing | Powerful and energetic voice in Bollywood music |
| 9 | Arijit Singh | Playback singing | The voice of the modern era, known for his soul-stirring songs |
| 10 | Shreya Ghoshal | Playback singing | Known for her classical training and versatile voice |
10 Best Singers in India
1 Lata Mangeshkar: The Nightingale of India
The Queen of Melody
Lata Mangeshkar, with her angelic voice, is perhaps the most iconic figure in Indian music. Often referred to as the “Nightingale of India,” Lata’s voice has enchanted generations of listeners. Her career spans over seven decades, and she has sung in over 36 languages, making her one of the most versatile singers in the world.
Born in 1929, Lata’s career took off in the 1940s, and she quickly became the go-to voice for Bollywood’s leading actresses. From “Aayega Aanewala” in Mahal to “Tum Hi Tum” in Tumhari Sulu, Lata’s songs have always captured the essence of romance, emotion, and spirituality. Her voice is a symbol of purity, conveying deep emotional nuances that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Legacy and Influence
Lata’s impact goes beyond her voice. She is a cultural icon, and her influence can be seen in the way she shaped the sound of Hindi cinema for generations. In fact, her songs have become an integral part of Indian weddings, festivals, and other major life events.
2 Kishore Kumar: The Voice of Romance and Humor
A Versatile Genius
If Lata Mangeshkar is the nightingale, Kishore Kumar is the playful breeze that sweeps across your heart. Known for his remarkable versatility, Kishore’s voice has lent itself to everything from romantic ballads to peppy numbers, from serious solos to comical songs. His unmatched range and effortless ability to switch between different emotions made him one of Bollywood’s greatest playback singers.
Kishore Kumar’s career spanned over four decades, and his collaborations with legendary composers like S. D. Burman, R.D. Burman, and Laxmikant-Pyarelal resulted in an unparalleled body of work. Hits like “Roop Tera Mastana,” “Mere Sapno Ki Rani,” and “Chalte Chalte” continue to be timeless classics.
The Quintessential Romantic Singer
Kishore’s romantic songs, particularly from the 1970s and 1980s, are still the go-to tracks for anyone in love. His voice had a certain playfulness and warmth that made him the voice of choice for Bollywood’s leading men, from Rajesh Khanna to Amitabh Bachchan.
3 Mohammed Rafi: The Master of Melody
The Voice of Every Emotion
Mohammed Rafi, often hailed as one of the greatest playback singers in India, was known for his unmatched ability to adapt his voice to suit different actors and genres. Whether it was the heart-wrenching melodies of “Baharon Phoolon Ka” or the energetic “Mehndi Hai Rachnewali,” Rafi could effortlessly traverse genres and emotions, making his voice truly timeless.
A Legend in Every Sense
Rafi’s career took flight in the 1950s and continued well into the 1980s, during which he produced an astounding number of hits. His ability to sing in multiple languages and his versatility across various genres, including classical, romantic, and patriotic songs, made him a household name in India.
4 Asha Bhosle: The Queen of Versatility
A Voice That Knows No Boundaries
Asha Bhosle is often celebrated as one of the most versatile and talented singers in the world. From soft romantic songs to energetic dance numbers, Asha’s voice has no limits. She has sung in over 20 languages, and her songs, whether in Bollywood or regional films, continue to be a source of inspiration for artists today.
The Undisputed Diva
Asha’s partnership with her sister Lata Mangeshkar and legendary music composers has been iconic. Songs like “Piya Tu Ab To Aaja,” “Chura Liya Hai Tumne,” and “Mehndi Hai Rachnewali” are testaments to her exceptional vocal abilities and unmatched adaptability.
5 Udit Narayan: The Melodious Voice of the 90s
The Heartbeat of Bollywood in the 90s
Udit Narayan’s soulful voice defined Bollywood’s music scene in the 1990s. Known for his romantic ballads, Udit became synonymous with timeless love songs that captured the emotions of an entire generation. Tracks like “Pehla Nasha,” “Mehndi Lag Gayi Hai,” and “Tujhe Dekha To” continue to evoke nostalgia and are considered among the best romantic songs of all time.
A Legacy of Love Songs
Udit’s voice had a youthful quality that made it perfect for romantic duets. His association with legendary singers like Alka Yagnik and Sadhana Sargam created an evergreen chemistry that still remains a benchmark for Bollywood music.
6 Alka Yagnik: The Unmatched Voice of Bollywood
The Powerhouse of Melodies
Alka Yagnik’s career in the 90s was marked by an incredible series of hits that made her the quintessential voice of Bollywood’s romantic tracks. From “Tujhe Dekha To” to “Agar Tum Saath Ho,” Alka’s ability to convey raw emotion through her voice set her apart from her contemporaries.
A Queen of Romantic Ballads
What makes Alka’s voice stand out is its ability to bring tenderness and warmth, making her one of the most beloved playback singers in Bollywood. Her collaborations with Udit Narayan, Kumar Sanu, and others resulted in some of the most memorable songs of the 1990s.
7 S. P. Balasubrahmanyam: The Icon of Indian Playback Singing
A Maestro’s Voice
S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, or SPB, was one of the most revered and influential voices in the world of Indian music. With a career spanning five decades, SPB is best known for his work in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, and other regional languages.
A Range Like No Other
What sets SPB apart is his extraordinary vocal range, which allowed him to sing across genres—be it classical, romantic, or energetic dance numbers. His voice continues to resonate with millions, and his songs like “Tumse Milke,” “Madhavi Pon Mayilal,” and “Tujh Mein Rab Dikhta Hai” are still loved by listeners across the world.
8 Sunidhi Chauhan: The Modern-Day Powerhouse
A Voice for the New Generation
Sunidhi Chauhan is the voice of the modern era. Known for her electrifying energy and unmatched vocal power, she has become a favorite in Bollywood for contemporary and dance songs. Tracks like “Sheila Ki Jawani,” “Crazy Kiya Re,” and “Kamli” demonstrate Sunidhi’s incredible vocal prowess.
Versatility and Vocal Strength
Sunidhi’s versatility is her greatest strength, effortlessly transitioning from powerful dance numbers to soulful ballads. Whether it’s an emotional romantic song or a foot-tapping dance anthem, Sunidhi always leaves a lasting impression.
9 Arijit Singh: The Heartbeat of Contemporary Bollywood
The King of Soulful Melodies
Arijit Singh’s soulful voice has made him the voice of Bollywood in the modern era. Known for his emotional depth and raw, powerful delivery, Arijit’s songs like “Tum Hi Ho,” “Raabta,” and “Channa Mereya” have captured the hearts of millions.
A New Generation of Music
Arijit represents a new wave of music in Bollywood, blending classical influences with contemporary styles. His ability to convey pain, joy, and love through his voice makes him one of the most sought-after singers today.
10 Shreya Ghoshal: The Classical Princess
A Voice That Resonates With Every Heartbeat
Shreya Ghoshal, known for her classical training and versatility, has become a favorite of music lovers worldwide. From the lilting “Tum Hi Tum” to the haunting “Deewani Mastani,” Shreya’s voice is filled with grace, elegance, and unmatched beauty.
The Ultimate Combination of Tradition and Modernity
Shreya Ghoshal’s blend of classical techniques with contemporary styles has won her countless accolades. She has a distinct voice that adds depth and emotion to every song she sings.
11 Kailasa (Kailash Kher): The Unique Voice of Fusion and Folk
A Blend of Traditional and Modern Music
Kailash Kher, the frontman of the band Kailasa, is known for his distinct voice and fusion style that blends traditional Indian music with contemporary sounds. His powerful, raspy voice combined with his deep connection to Indian folk music makes him one of the most unique and beloved figures in modern Indian music.
The Voice of Soulful Fusion
Kailash Kher’s music has often been characterized by a blend of Indian classical, folk, and rock elements. His iconic hits like “Teri Deewani,” “Allah Ke Bande,” and “Saiyyan” resonate with listeners not only because of their captivating melodies but also because of the profound emotional depth in his vocals.
Conclusion: Honoring the Best Singers in India
The 10 Best Singers in India have forever etched their names in the annals of Indian music history. From Lata Mangeshkar’s ethereal voice to Arijit Singh’s modern melodies, each artist brings something unique to the table. These legendary singers have not only contributed to Bollywood but also enriched Indian music across genres and languages. They have created a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations, and their music will live on in our hearts forever.
FAQs
1. Who is the most famous singer in India?
Lata Mangeshkar is often regarded as the most famous and revered singer in India due to her decades-long career and iconic status.
2. What is the contribution of Kishore Kumar to Indian music?
Kishore Kumar was known for his versatility and his ability to bring humor, romance, and depth to Bollywood music.
3. Which singer has sung in the most languages?
Lata Mangeshkar is known to have sung in over 36 languages, making her one of the most linguistically diverse singers in the world.
4. Who is the best romantic singer in India?
Kishore Kumar and Udit Narayan are both known for their incredible contributions to romantic music in Bollywood.
5. Is Arijit Singh considered one of the best singers?
Yes, Arijit Singh is widely regarded as one of the top contemporary playback singers in India, known for his soulful and emotional voice.