Top 10 Best British Female Singers
When it comes to British female singers, the UK has given the world an incredible range of talent, covering nearly every genre and generation of music. From pop to soul, rock to jazz, these artists have shaped the sound of global music in their own unique ways. Some of them have achieved massive international success, while others are cherished for their distinctive voices and creative contributions to the British music scene. Each singer on this list has brought something special to the table, showcasing vocal ability, emotional depth, and artistry that sets them apart.
Leona Louise Lewis is a British singer, songwriter and animal welfare campaigner. She was born and raised in the London Borough of Islington, London, England where she attended the BRIT School for Performing Arts and Technology. Leona's voice is so expansive and flexible that she can change her tone and timbre to suit a very wide variety of songs in a compelling way. Her sheer vocal prowess is easily the best the UK currently has to offer, even against the likes of powerhouses like Adele and Jessie J. Leona easily traverses the likes of pop, R&B, soul, reggae, Motown, dance, dubstep, and opera with class and finesse.
Someone as gifted as Leona is definitely a rarity, coming around only once every generation or two. It speaks volumes that she first had commercial success a decade ago, and there has not yet been any sign of anyone quite so talented and versatile on the British scene since.
Adele Laurie Blue Adkins (born 5 May 1988) is an English singer and songwriter. Graduating from the BRIT School for Performing Arts and Technology in 2006, Adele was given a recording contract by XL Recordings after a friend posted her demo on Myspace the same year. She is best known with her international... read more She's the only woman I know to be hot, cute, and silly at the same time! She's a gorgeous human and she has an old soul. She sings with her heart and soul on stage and anywhere. She's such an inspiration to everyone and is so body positive. That's so great for the younger generations!
I think Adele should be the best singer in the world, not just the best female British singer. She is my favorite singer and pretty much the only singer I like. I always have her songs stuck in my head. I want to meet her someday.
Adele is simply the best singer we have produced. She touches people with her heartfelt lyrics. She is a classic artist. We all miss her and hope to hear some new material.
I'm sorry, but Kate should be in the top 5 at least. Anyone with any ounce of musicality in their bones must be able to acknowledge what an utter genius this woman is. Unless they have never listened to more than 30 seconds of her work, which sadly is most likely the reason why she is positioned outside the top 10.
Kate, after all, is completely unique and out on her own. There have been many great talented female singer/songwriters through the generations, and we all have our favorites, of course. Kate is not everyone's cup of tea, I realize, but if this poll is to be taken seriously, then any subjective, appreciative music lover would always vote for Kate before anyone else, in my opinion.
There aren't words expressive enough for this woman's internal archives of creativity and talent. From her experimental and shocking debut throughout her constant chameleon-like, daring career, her amazing ability to entertain and amuse as well as eloquently make a poignant statement just enhances and embraces the flawless jewel that is her voice.
'80s fashion icon. Feminist. Philanthropist and freedom fighter. In fact, she is the British Madonna. Piercing and powerful voice, yet gentle and elegant like crystal. She stirs emotions like few others. Talented singer/songwriter. Massively important for music.
Florence Leontine Mary Welch is an English musician, singer, and songwriter. She is best known as the lead vocalist of the indie rock band Florence + the Machine. Florence Welch... She sings so well live (despite some SNL and Letterman performances), but her voice is beautiful. Her songwriting talent and the instrumentals are nothing short of genius.
Listen to Calvin Harris' version of Spectrum and then tell me Florence Welch isn't the best on this list. Adele is a very close second though.
There may be several incredible women on this list, but none can match the artistry that Florence Welch has.
Geneviève Alison Jane Moyet is an English singer, songwriter and performer noted for her bluesy contralto voice. Unparalleled depth, she is the juxtaposition of voice. Moyet stirs emotion as simultaneously modern and timeless. Like few can in any era, she sings along the knife's edge to be as polished as it is raw. Consider listening to any of her songs, notably with Yazoo (Yaz), and hear the texture that fills the room.
Along with Cyndi Lauper and Madonna, Alison Moyet was one of my favorite singers in the '80s. I remember her being number 1 on Top of the Pops. She is one of the most talented and complete singers I ever knew.
Probably not too many young people know her, and that's why she is only No. 41.
Jessica Ellen Cornish, better known by her stage name Jessie J, is an English singer and songwriter. Born and raised in London, she began her career on stage, aged 11, with a role in the West End musical Whistle Down the Wind. Ask another singer to do one of her songs and hear the difference. They can't do it. Okay, maybe the vocal gymnastics are overdone, but this girl is a major talent. When she hosted the MTV Europe show before she became huge, she sang lots of covers and put every other artist on the bill to shame. Only Leona Lewis shines brighter.
She's a very talented singer, and you can really feel what her song is saying. Every word that comes from her sounds so powerful, and every lyric pronounced is so meaningful that it really puts the listeners inside her song. She's amazing, and it's so great to hear her voice.
Amy Jade Winehouse was an English singer and songwriter known for her deep expressive contralto vocals and her eclectic mix of musical genres, including soul, rhythm and blues, and jazz. She is also a well-known member of the 27 Club, as she overdosed on alcohol at age 27. Britain has produced some of the greatest vocal talents the world has ever seen, and Amy is, without a shadow of a doubt, the most gifted female. Her voice was absolutely extraordinary, and she could translate emotion to an audience in a fashion that was practically unparalleled.
Her voice was an instrument that could take you places. Not to mention, she was an incredibly gifted songwriter. The lyrics to Love is a Losing Game and Wake Up Alone are just stunning, and her renditions of classic jazz standards are beautiful.
Moreover, there is something commendable about her devotion to being herself in an industry that endeavors for individuals to conform. She truly epitomizes the word genius, and she made an everlasting impact on my life.
Elena Jane "Ellie" Goulding is an English singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, born on December 30th, 1986 in Hereford, England. She is most well-known in the U.S. for her singles "Lights”, "Love Me Like You Do” and "Burn", and has been featured in other songs with artists like Calvin Harris... read more Her tone of voice is unique, so high, almost unnaturally so. Yes, she has had hits with Calvin Harris and the No. 1 single "Burn," but her best vocals are in her live performances and acoustic numbers like "Your Song."
Ellie Goulding is amazing. She has an awesome voice. She inspires me. She's got so much talent and she deserves it. I love all of her songs and I have all of them. I have all of her albums too.
I love Ellie Goulding, literally love her. I'm in love with Ellie Goulding. Her beautiful face, voice, and body. I feel in love right now.
Helen Folasade Adu, known professionally as Sade Adu or simply Sade, is an English singer-songwriter, composer, arranger, and record producer. Sade is the most amazing singer of anything: Blues, Jazz, Rock, Ballads, and Modern. I listen to her music every day and have done this for over two years. Sade is also a fine dancer and entertainer, displaying both beauty and deep-felt sexuality. I feel like the luckiest man alive for finally discovering the magical experience of Sade and her great band.
Another legend! I spent many high school days listening to her songs over and over again. There was no party or social gathering where her music wasn't played. Sensual, elaborate, romantic, emotional - all mixed into one pot of incredible vocal feast.
The Newcomers
Susan Janet Ballion, better known by her stage name Siouxsie Sioux, is an English singer, songwriter, musician and producer. She is best known as the lead singer of the alternative rock band Siouxsie and the Banshees (1976–1996) and the drums-and-voice duo the Creatures (1981–2005)... read more
Victoria Caroline Beckham is an English businesswoman, fashion designer, model, and former singer. In the late 1990s, Beckham rose to fame with the all-female pop group Spice Girls, and was dubbed Posh Spice by the July 1996 issue of the British music magazine Top of the Pops."Breathy," "sultry," "ethereal," "startling" - all have been said about her voice. Listen to "Pilots" and decide for yourself. By the way, the opening tune to the song is also her voice.
She's just amazing and so versatile! She takes you to other worlds with her voice.
Marina Lambrini Diamandis, better known by her stage name "Marina and The Diamonds", is a Welsh singer-songwriter. Born in Bryn Mawr and raised in nearby Pandy, she moved to London as a teenager in order to achieve her dream of being a singer. She's known for her unique style of writing, and impersonating... read more Her voice is unique, and her lyrics aren't just meaningful but actually woke and entertaining at the same time. This combination makes her remarkable. Plus, Marina is undoubtedly the most blessed in terms of her physique out of all the British female artists. Her tight waist and abs are very reminiscent of what legendary artist Cher had back in her heyday. I was astonished when I first noticed her.
This should be number 1. Marina has an amazing voice and meaningful lyrics. She has a message and she's delivering it successfully so far. Listen to her and you won't regret it.
Dame Shirley Veronica Bassey is a Welsh singer whose career began in the mid-1950s, best known both for her powerful voice and for recording the theme songs to the James Bond films Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever, and Moonraker. Her ability to connect with a song and an audience across such a wide range of material is peerless. The power and drama of her voice are well recognized, but spend some time listening across her broad catalog.
Love, loss, heartache, warmth, lust, tenderness, anger, fun, funny, galvanizing, self-deprecating, intimate, teasing, triumphant, gloriously exuberant, classical, easy, standards, rock, country, jazz, pop, disco, dance, consummate phrasing, range, astounding breath control, captivating, charismatic, regal, down-to-earth, beautiful, and beyond compare.
She's a great singer, and she also writes her own songs. I feel like she deserves to be in the top 5, if not top 3.
I saw her live at a Princes' Trust awards. She was amazing and inspirational.
She can write any song and evoke emotion, and can sing any song and spark waterfalls. Incredible.
Lily Rose Beatrice Cooper, known professionally as Lily Allen, is an English singer, songwriter, actress, and television presenter. She can't dance well and really isn't a great singer, but her video is one of the most mesmerizing events I watched in a while. She comes across as very genuine through her songs and her performance.
Lily Allen should be up there at the top. Smile? The Fear? Come on, you can't beat those tunes. You actually can't. And three platinum albums? Is everyone forgetting something here?
I like her, but who does a music video in the bathroom for the whole day? Her songs are good though!
Kim Wilde (born Kim Smith) is an English pop singer, author, DJ and television presenter who burst onto the music scene in 1981 with her debut single "Kids in America", which reached number two in the UK. Her version of the Supremes' song "You Keep Me Hangin' On" also went on to be a major UK and US... read more Songwriter of extraordinary depth and surprisingly hard-hitting and realistically emotive. She has quite simply the best pop voice for variety, excelling in pop, rock, ballad, dance, jazz, and more. So many singers are great with a particular type of song, but this lady manages them all convincingly.
It's ridiculous she is this low in the poll. "Cambodia," her bestseller, remains my favorite of all time. It is genuinely innovative, haunting, and melodic, with strong vocals that mix Eastern-style percussion with a disco beat and a gigantic chorus. Mesmerizing!
Paloma Faith Blomfield, known professionally as Paloma Faith, is an English singer, songwriter, and actress. Faith is known for her retro and eccentric style. Faith met her managers Jamie Binns and Christian Wåhlberg in 2007. Her debut album, Do You Want the Truth or Something Beautiful? was released... read more I love Paloma Faith because she dares to be different, and when she wants, she is unique. She writes her own material and should eventually make it big in America. I love her honesty as a person and as an artist.
Simply the queen! With such a diverse spectrum of beautiful music, Paloma leaves everyone else behind. She has class while also managing to be different. She is an inspiration. Great live as well!
She's the greatest! Full of soul! Her performances command your attention. She's awesome! We need more of her in America!
Just by exploring all the kinds of music she sings, from trance to pop music and even the indie genre, her personality and style of voice are so unique. Her roles as a mother, wife, and artist make her an admirable person. She's never in the eye of scandal and show. Nothing vulgar. All a lady.
Most of her lyrics do not contain vulgarity, unlike those of some of the most popular singers. It's a pity that she is not recognized as she should be in her own country and is more acclaimed in Russia and Latin America. Mexico loves her!
Skin is miles above the rest. Her vocal range cannot be matched by her peers anywhere in the world, never mind the UK. It's always so sad to see mediocre artists rewarded because their limited talent appeals to a limited audience. If you just look at the differences in the quality and execution, it's miles above the likes of Adele and what is presented as great British talent.
Polly Jean Harvey, known as PJ Harvey, is an English musician, singer-songwriter, writer, poet, and composer.
Rita Sahatçiu Ora is a British singer and actress . Her debut studio album, Ora, released in 2012, debuted at number one in the United Kingdom .
She dated Rob Kardashian . She is an inspiration and such a genuine person. Rita is talented and always has good spirits. Most importantly, she never forgets where she came from. Love you, Rita.
She is really talented. She is also a really good model.
Rita Ora is an amazing singer. I could listen to her all day. I love you, Rita.
This is a joke. Jess Glynne is an amazing singer, yet people like Rita Ora are higher up on this list.
Absolutely brilliant. There is such depth to her voice.
Dido Florian Cloud de Bounevialle O'Malley Armstrong, known as Dido, is a British singer and songwriter. I'm guessing a lot of fourteen-year-olds are voting when you find Sade and Dido at the bottom. But hey, times change. Just let's not forget who paved the way.
Dido is just stunning. Her emotions and passion in songwriting accompanied me through my adolescence and empowered me very often.
I don't know most of her music, but I've heard a few songs. And the ones I heard, I liked. Steady and solid artist.
Cheryl Ann Tweedy (formerly Cheryl Cole, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini) known as Cheryl is an English singer, dancer, and television personality. She rose to fame in late 2002 as a member of girl group Girls Aloud on ITV's Popstars: The Rivals, and stayed with the group until they split up in 2013. I'm waiting for Cheryl to get a comment. What on earth is she on here for, her looks only? Her duet with Gary Barlow is legendary for being awful. Lady Antebellum butchered it badly. She got through Popstars: The Rivals only because, in the words of the other girls, we liked her as a person. Toneless and awful.
Cheryl is a phenomenal talent in singing, songwriting, and dancing. She has so much experience, with a decade in the music industry. She is a true artist.
She should be number 1 because she is the only female singer ever to have 5 UK number 1s, and she has some of the catchiest songs I've ever heard. She is a household name in the UK and Ireland, but it's a shame she never released her music in the US.
Bonnie Tyler is a Welsh singer. She is known for her distinctive husky voice, resulting from an operation to remove vocal nodules in the mid-1970s. Known for her distinctive husky voice and mega-hits like Total Eclipse of the Heart, Holding Out for a Hero, and It's a Heartache, Bonnie Tyler is a true legend. Just look at her hits on YouTube - every song gives you that special wow feeling. You know what I mean!
Because of her amazing husky voice and the passion she puts into every song, Bonnie Tyler deserves recognition. She's been in the business for over 40 years, never tiring of touring, and has achieved fantastic success all over Europe and worldwide.