Top 10 Greatest Musical Entertainers of All Time

There are many great entertainers, but there are a select few who can induce tears and fainting before they even begin to sing. These are artists who not only meet expectations but shatter them.

There are singers who don't just raise the bar, they break it. For many entertainers, their art is music. Yet, for some, music itself transforms into art.

The following are the artists, singers, and entertainers who have exceeded expectations, broken the bar, and transformed their music into art.

The Top Ten

Michael Jackson

Michael Joseph Jackson (August 29, 1958 - June 25, 2009) was an American singer, dancer, and songwriter. He passed away from cardiac arrest caused by acute propofol and benzodiazepine intoxication, which was ruled a homicide. Jackson is widely regarded as one of the most significant cultural figures... read more

Just the fact that a little black boy from a Midwestern town was able to become a seemingly mythical pop legend is mind-blowing. The electrifying dance moves and angelic voice just add to the recipe that makes up Michael Jackson, the greatest entertainer of all time. He revolutionized music and was the first artist to turn it into art.
His extraordinary wardrobe, his take on the music video, and his amazing dances made his music come alive. He pioneered the music video format with Thriller, and none of his videos disappointed. He never settled and was never second-best. For him, it was all or nothing. If he couldn't excite and please his fans, he didn't want to do it at all.
His perseverance, perfectionism, talent, and hard work are what make him the greatest entertainer of all time.
Elvis Presley

Elvis Aaron Presley was an American singer and actor, widely dubbed the "King of Rock and Roll" and regarded as a pivotal cultural icon of the 20th century. His energetic musical interpretation and provocative performance style, bridging racial music traditions in a shifting era, both fueled his fame... read more

He was the King. One cannot get into four Official Music Halls of Fame without a reason. Another thing to remember is that he has outsold every other solo performer and is on par with the Beatles, both having claimed to sell over one billion records.
He had such emotion and passion that he put into the really good songs, making these recordings amazing. Also, when he was younger (from when he started out until about 1973), his dance/karate moves were amazing.
Everyone who has ever enjoyed modern music has this man and his peers to thank (guys like Little Richard, Chuck Berry, etc.). If it wasn't for all of them, the Beatles, Michael Jackson, and so much of the music that we now love and enjoy would not be here. And if you don't believe this, remember that John Lennon himself said that it was Elvis who got him into music.
Madonna

Madonna Louise Ciccone, known professionally as Madonna, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman. She has influenced many artists, including Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Beyoncé Knowles, and Britney Spears. Often referred to as the "Queen of Pop," she has played a significant... read more

Instead of pointing out that Madonna doesn't have the best voice in the business, how about pointing out that she dominated the '80s with live vocals in her shows with no backing tracks. She's a workaholic, and much of that work has been on herself - getting better and better at singing, dancing, and expressing herself in her shows in some very innovative and incredible ways.
She was born to be a live entertainer, and every concert feels fresh and different from the one before. I've seen many live performers over the years, and Madonna was only rivaled by Prince and Michael Jackson when it comes to seeing a superhero appear onstage before you. She radiates inspiration.
The Beatles

The Beatles were an English rock band formed in Liverpool in 1960. The group comprised John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. They are regarded as the most influential band of all time and were integral to the development of the 1960s counterculture and the recognition of popular... read more

The Beatles were nothing if not epic. Their albums were so ambitious and out-there they crossed back to the mainstream. The Beatles managed to get psychedelic pop to Number One. The Beatles made girls cry just by standing onstage.
Never has any band achieved so much success. The Beatles are still being swooned over by females from age fifty to age fifteen. The Beatles were like crack cocaine: they were short-lived, made people ecstatic, and left everyone wishing for more.

The Beatles wrote their own material, pushed the boundaries of music, challenged their contemporaries to keep up, and opened the door for everyone who followed. No one stands above them. Not even the vastly overrated Michael Jackson.
Queen

Queen is an English rock band formed in London in 1970. The original lineup was Freddie Mercury (lead vocals, piano), Brian May (guitar, vocals), Roger Taylor (drums, vocals), and John Deacon (bass guitar). Before Queen, May and Taylor had played together in a band named Smile. Freddie Mercury, a fan... read more

Queen, or at least Freddie, deserves to be number one. They weren't afraid to take risks, like with Bohemian Rhapsody. They performed one of the greatest pieces of music in history at Live Aid. Their combination of vocal ranges was just amazing, and they sounded the same live as they did in the studio.
They had the ability to capture every single person in the room, no matter how many people were there. Their songs were captivating, making you feel a thousand different emotions. They left the meaning of their songs a secret so everyone could have their own personal connection. Additionally, every member had written a hit song, showing how connected they were. Brian was the first person to write a song about time travel ('39).
Freddie was an amazing musician and performer. He reached out to everyone in the room and told them they could be who they wanted to be while he was trying to discover himself. Their concerts were electrifying. Freddie, Roger, Brian, and John are, and forever will be, rock gods. You'll never find anything better than them. EVER.
Beyoncé

Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who began her career as lead singer of Destiny's Child. The group scored multiple Billboard No. 1 hits including "Say My Name," "Bills, Bills, Bills," "Survivor," "Independent Women," and "Bootylicious." After their split,... read more

She has the voice, the body, the moves, and performances that will blow your mind. She comes with something new every time. She does her thing without bothering anyone or trying to be more than anyone. She just does her thing without trying to break records or sell numbers.
She shows respect, appreciation, and does tributes to other huge artists. Artists admire her. And the ones who hate her don't really hate her. They hate that people talk as if she were some kind of god, and that's not her fault. I kinda think that she is underrated because radios don't play her music, and they compare her to others that are not on her level.

The absolute most outstanding performer and vocalist of all time. Whether stunning with her intense dance moves, beauty, or angelic vocal gymnastics, she is never out of place, out of breath, or not being her best. She is the best performer of all time, on the stage or off it.
The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones are an English rock band formed in London in 1962. The first settled line-up consisted of Brian Jones (guitar, harmonica), Ian Stewart (piano), Mick Jagger (lead vocals, harmonica), Keith Richards (guitar), Bill Wyman (bass), and Charlie Watts (drums).... read more

I think they're way better than the Beatles, who are largely overrated in comparison to their other British counterparts. The Beatles were okay, but they largely copied Chuck Berry. Somehow, Americans in particular managed to shoot them to fame. Perhaps it's so typical of them. They enjoy entertainment so much in a fashion where anything goes. Just think One Direction!
Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd are an English progressive rock band formed in 1965 in London, England. They gained international acclaim with their innovative, conceptual music blending progressive rock and psychedelia. The classic lineup included Syd Barrett (vocals and guitar), David Gilmour (vocals and guitar), Nick... read more

Omg, are you serious? Lady Gaga, Chithra, Miley Cyrus, and Madonna above Pink Floyd? Sorry, but that is just wrong. Many of the artists I mentioned lip-sync, but all can't sing. Pink Floyd is the ultimate stoner music. It is the closest thing to a drug I can think of.
Their live shows are pretty awesome too. They were among the first to use bright-colored light shows in their live performances. All these artists I mentioned are gonna die soon anyway. Bands like The Beatles, Rolling Stones, and Pink Floyd will live on forever.
Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan is an American singer-songwriter, author, and artist who has been an influential figure in popular music and culture for more than five decades. He gained fame in the 1960s with songs that became anthems for the civil rights and anti-war movements. In 2016, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in... read more

Before he became complacent about his genius, Dylan worked really hard to get to where he got. In his live shows in the sixties, he is witty, charismatic, and radiates mischief in its most intelligent incarnation. He is a troubadour. His place is out there in front of an audience telling stories, not in a studio. For this reason, he beats the Beatles, who were only really performers in the beginning before they dedicated themselves to studio albums that were written to be played, not performed.

Ask these top 100 entertainers who they would vote as their favorite, excluding themselves, of course. Betcha Bob Dylan would be rated #1. VYCPA.
Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and dancer known for her innovative music, socially conscious lyrics, and elaborate stage shows. She gained prominence with her third album, Control (1986), and has since sold over 100 million records worldwide. Jackson is also recognized as... read more

She belongs right behind her brother because she is the greatest female entertainer of all time. She doesn't need Michael. She can do it on her own, and that's why we love her so much.

Michael has nothing to do with it. The Jacksons just have natural talent!

She isn't overrated, and neither is Michael.

The Newcomers

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Elvis Costello

Declan Patrick MacManus, better known by his stage name Elvis Costello, is an English musician, singer, songwriter, composer, record producer, author, television presenter, and occasional actor. He emerged during the punk and new wave movements of the late 1970s and is known for his clever lyrics and... read more
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Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O'Connell, professionally known as Billie Eilish, was born on December 18, 2001. She is an American singer and songwriter widely recognized for her unique style and musical innovation. Her most well-known songs include "Bad Guy," "When the Party's Over," "Bury a Friend," "Everything... read more

The Contenders

Jackie Evancho

Jacqueline Marie "Jackie" Evancho is an American classical crossover singer who gained wide recognition at an early age. Since 2009, she has issued an EP and eight albums, including a platinum and gold album, and three Billboard 200 top 10 debuts. Evancho's latest album, The Debut, was her eighth consecutive... read more

I have personally seen live in concert: the Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, James Brown, the Beach Boys, Eric Clapton, Prince, Fleetwood Mac, Elton John, The Eagles, and many other HOF acts. I know what greatness looks like, and Jackie Evancho is true greatness.
It's very funny that the haters seem to always be fans of Ariana Grande, Demi Lovato, and other worthless pop princesses. What is a little disconcerting is that the haters seem unable to comprehend that somebody could actually disagree with them and could dare to vote differently than they would. Welcome to life, get used to it.

She is the whole package: immensely talented, cute, funny, positive, and caring. She lights up everything around her.
Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lynn Lopez, also known as J. Lo, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, dancer, fashion designer, author, producer, and businesswoman. She's regarded as one of the most influential entertainers of her time, credited with breaking barriers for Latino Americans in Hollywood and helping propel... read more

Watch the Celia Cruz tribute at the AMAs 2013 and the opening dance number at the AMAs 2015. She should be in the top 5.
Prince

Prince Rogers Nelson (June 7, 1958 - April 21, 2016) was an American musician, widely regarded as one of the most popular and influential artists of the 1980s. He was known for his eclectic musical style, flamboyant stage presence, and mastery of multiple instruments. Some of his most iconic songs include... read more

Dude had it all. He could shred with the best. He could sing with the best. No one, except maybe Meat Loaf, poured themselves out to the audience with every ounce of energy they had like Prince did. Some of his most beautiful work is stuff 99% of people never heard because they weren't radio hits. But it was beautiful art.
It's hard to compare because everyone has their own niche, but, in my opinion, he and Meat Loaf should be floating around the top. Elvis was a great vocalist. He engaged the crowd. But he didn't put on a show like Prince. Find Prince's Super Bowl halftime performance in a torrential downpour. He killed it. Rain didn't bother him or his dancers.
Anyone who thinks this guy isn't one of the best knows nothing about music or entertainment. Or Prince. That's what it looks like from where I'm standing, anyway.
Cher

Cher is an American singer and actress. Described as embodying female autonomy in a male-dominated industry, she is known for her distinctive contralto singing voice and for having worked in numerous areas of entertainment. Over a career spanning more than six decades, she has adopted a variety of styles... read more

Cher is known as "The Goddess of Pop!" How is she not in the top ten?

She is the Goddess! No one compares.
Shakira

Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll is a Colombian-Spanish singer, songwriter, dancer, record producer, choreographer, and model. She rose to international fame in the late 1990s with Latin pop hits and has sold over 85 million records worldwide. Shakira is also known for her philanthropic work through her... read more
Guns N' Roses

Guns N' Roses is an American hard rock band from Los Angeles formed in 1985. The classic lineup, signed to Geffen Records in 1986, consisted of vocalist Axl Rose, lead guitarist Slash, rhythm guitarist Izzy Stradlin, bassist Duff McKagan, and drummer Steven Adler. In addition to hard rock, they are also... read more

Axl Rose has the best, most powerful, charismatic voice in rock today. Only Freddie Mercury is bigger than Axl. Mick Jagger, Elvis Presley, Elton John, Madonna, etc. can't reach that power and voice range that only Axl and Freddie can.

The most dangerous, unpredictable, charismatic rock band ever.
K.S. Chithra

Krishnan Nair Shantakumari Chithra, often credited as K. S. Chithra or simply Chithra, is an Indian playback singer from Kerala. She also sings Indian classical, devotional, and popular music. Chithra has recorded over 25,000 songs in various languages and is a recipient of six National Film Awards.

Chithra is just so totally unique, and the world needs to see and hear such a nice young lady with so much talent.
"Surprisingly beautiful voice - original." "Wonderful singer, would grace any stage."
Although Chithra is fairly new to the music scene, she has already inspired countless people, including myself, to never be afraid to be different. Her outlandish costumes and extravagant stage shows, along with the artistry of her music, have proven that Chithra is here to stay. Her songs explore aspects of real life, written down in clever lyrics and put to a catchy beat. She does a fantastic job of capturing a moment in time and presenting it to our generation.
Tina Turner

Tina Turner, née Anna Mae Bullock, was a singer, dancer, actress, and author, whose career spanned more than half a century, earning her widespread recognition and numerous awards. She was known as the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll. Turner sold over 100 million records worldwide and won eight Grammy Awards... read more

The most professional, hard-working, dynamic, and unique female musical act ever. Legend. And just a wonderful person, to boot. There will never be another Tina Turner.

Tina Turner could do more on stage at 60 than Beyoncé can now. I'm not taking anything away from Beyoncé, but until you see Tina Turner in person, you really can't compare them. Her show was actually what I would call savage and raw. Nothing like her.

The greatest female entertainer of all time!
Freddie Mercury

Freddie Mercury was a Zanzibari‑born British singer of Indian descent, songwriter, and record producer, best known as the lead vocalist and lyricist of the rock band Queen. He achieved fame for his flamboyant stage persona and remarkable four-octave vocal range.... read more

The best performer of all time. Why isn't he number one on this list? People, wake up!

Pure genius, the true total performer.

Best stage performance combined with great vocals in different styles.
Dimash Kudaibergen

Dinmukhamed Kanatuly Kudaibergenov, commonly known as Dimash Kudaibergen, was born on May 24, 1994. He is a Kazakh singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist... read more
James Brown

James Joseph Brown was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, musician, record producer, and bandleader. A progenitor of funk music and a major figure of 20th-century popular music and dance, he's often referred to as the "Godfather of Soul." His energetic performances and innovative rhythms influenced... read more

He is simply the best entertainer ever. The man with the crown, James Brown. He has made dance and singing an art to watch and to enjoy. He has reinvented singing, dancing, and entertaining a live audience.
There is still someone to come to surpass this guy. He has the voice, he has the dance, he has the mentality. He is the Einstein of music and the Napoleon of the podium, James Brown the Godfather of Soul.

Soul brother number one. Godfather of Soul and King of Soul and R&B. Most sampled artist of all time. Nobody can beat James Brown. Michael Jackson himself confirmed at one event that James Brown was his biggest influence in music and dance.
Frank Sinatra

Francis Albert "Frank" Sinatra (December 12, 1915 - May 14, 1998) was an American singer, actor, and producer who was one of the most popular and influential musical artists of the 20th century. He's one of the best-selling music artists of all time, having sold more than 150 million records worldwide... read more

Hey, I'm a Prince fan, but he couldn't hold a candle to Frank as far as being an entertainer. Just because you like someone does not make them a great entertainer. They might be a great musician or songwriter, but being an entertainer is different.
The Beatles were not entertainers. Frank was called the Chairman of the Board for a reason. He took control of every stage he walked on like no other, except maybe Michael Jackson. Patti LaBelle should be on this list too, but don't give me Madonna or Beyoncé. Please...

Unparalleled command of stage and screen. THE idol and symbol of America in his time. And that voice.
David Bowie

David Robert Jones, known professionally as David Bowie (January 8, 1947 - January 10, 2016), was an English singer born in London, the son of a sales promotion officer and a housewife.
He earned praise for his experimental and creative music, winning numerous awards and gaining admiration from... read more

Eleven incredible albums in the 70s alone, plus Lou Reed's album Transformer and Iggy Pop's albums Lust for Life and The Idiot. Then there's Let's Dance in '83 and more.
Also, he was one of the better actors among all the artists listed, as well as one of the funniest. A 50-year career is hard to match.

David Bowie is very unique, and I like him so much. He's my second biggest influence.
Britney Spears

Britney Jean Spears (born on December 2, 1981, in McComb, Mississippi) is an American former singer and actress. She was raised in Kentwood, Louisiana. As a child, she performed acting roles in stage productions and television shows, such as The Mickey Mouse Club, before signing with Jive Records in... read more

She's the best princess of pop. I love her performances, and the ones from her prime era are untouchable.
Robbie Williams

Robert Peter Williams (born February 13, 1974) is an English singer, songwriter, and actor. He was a member of the pop group Take That from 1990 to 1995 and rejoined the group from 2009 to 2012.
He also achieved major commercial success as a solo artist, selling over 75 million records worldwide... read more

In 2006, Williams entered the Guinness Book of World Records for selling 1.6 million tickets for his Close Encounters Tour in a single day.

Total perfection in every way. His live concerts are the best I've ever seen.

By far the most charismatic and entertaining. The full package.