70 best black female singers of all time you should know about

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They say music is food for the soul, and that is why the best singers are known worldwide due to their powerful lyrics and soothing vocals. Many singers have stood out in the music industry, including black female singers who have performed excellently. Their songs are timeless, and they have received numerous accolades for their singing talents.

Black female singers have made immense contributions to the music industry's development. They have distinguished themselves as some of the best composers and vocalists and have shown a deep connection with their fans.

Overview of the best black female singers of all time

Ranking	Name	Country of birth	Date of birth
1	Whitney Houston	United States	9 August 1963 (deceased)
2	Ella Fitzgerald	United States	25 April 1917 (deceased)
3	Billie Holiday	United States	7 April 1915 (deceased)
4	Etta James	United States	25 January 1938 (deceased)
5	Aretha Franklin	United States	25 March 1942 (deceased)
6	Diana Ross	United States	26 March 1944
7	Mariah Carey	United States	27 March 1969
8	Donna Summer	United States	31 December 1948 (deceased)
9	Tina Turner	United States	26 November 1939 (deceased)
10	Mary J. Blige	United States	11 January 1971
11	Beyoncé	United States	4 September 1981
12	Big Mama Thornton	United States	11 December 1926 (deceased)
13	Lauryn Hill	United States	26 May 1975
14	Roberta Flack	United States	10 February 1937
15	Patti LaBelle	United States	24 May 1944
16	Bessie Smith	United States	15 April 1894 (deceased)
17	Janet Jackson	United States	16 May 1966
18	Natalie Cole	United States	6 February 1950 (deceased)
19	Toni Braxton	United States	7 October 1967
20	Alicia Keys	United States	25 January 1981

Best black female singers of all time

The best black female singers of all time have shown the world their singing prowess and gained immense fame.

We use data from credible sources such as the Ranker, IMDB, and Spotify to compile a list of the best black female songstresses based on their careers and achievements. Note that the list is in no particular order.

1. Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 32nd Annual Awards at The Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers in New York City

Full name: Whitney Elizabeth Houston
Date of birth: 9 August 1963
Date of death: 11 February 2012
Age at death: 48 years
Place of birth: Newark, New Jersey, United States

Whitney Houston was a famous singer and actress. Nicknamed The Voice, she is one of the most awarded singers and one of the best-selling music artists of all time. She sold over 220 million records worldwide. Her first and second albums, Whitney Houston and Whitney, are among the best-selling albums of all time.

2. Ella Fitzgerald

American jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald performing in Copenhagen, Denmark

Full name: Ella Jane Fitzgerald
Date of birth: 25 April 1917
Date of death: 15 June 1996
Age at death: 79 years
Place of birth: Newport News, Virginia, United States

The late Ella Fitzgerald was hailed as the First Lady of Song. She released over 40 studio albums and was a 13-time Grammy Award winner. Her best songs include Cheek to Cheek, It’s a Lovely Day Today, and It Don’t Mean a Thing.

3. Billie Holiday

Singer Billie Holiday records her penultimate album 'Lady in Satin' at the Columbia Records studio in New York City, New York

Full name: Billie Holiday
Date of birth: 7 April 1915
Date of death: 17 July 1959
Age at death: 44 years
Place of birth: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

Billie Holiday was one of the best black female music artists. She was a jazz singer and released about 12 studio albums with several songs. Some of Billie Holiday's famous songs are Lady in Satin, Body and Soul, and All or Nothing At All.

4. Etta James

Etta James, an American blues and jazz singer, is on stage during a live concert performance

Full name: Jamesetta Hawkins
Date of birth: 25 January 1938
Date of death: 20 January 2012
Age at death: 73 years
Place of birth: Los Angeles, California, United States

Etta James' real name was Jamesetta Hawkins. She was a three-time Grammy Award winner. She sang different genres, such as blues, jazz, R&B, and soul and had approximately 30 albums. Her songs include At Last, Stormy Weather, and Tell Mama. Today, Etta James is remembered as one of the top black female R&B singers.

5. Aretha Franklin

American musician Aretha Franklin performs on stage at the Park West Auditorium, Chicago, Illinois

Full name: Aretha Louise Franklin
Date of birth: 25 March 1942
Date of death: 16 August 2018
Age at death: 76 years
Place of birth: Memphis, Tennessee, United States

Aretha Franklin was referred to as the Queen of Soul. She won 18 Grammy Awards and was named twice as the greatest singer of all time by Rolling Stones. Aretha Franklin's best hits include A Natural Woman, Chain of Fools, and Ever Changing Times.

6. Diana Ross

Diana Ross performs on the Pyramid Stage during day five of Glastonbury Festival at Worthy Farm, Pilton in Glastonbury, England

Full name: Diana Ross
Date of birth: 26 March 1944
Age: 80 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Detroit, Michigan, United States

Diana Ross is one of the older black female singers who paved the way for younger generations. Known as the Queen of Motown Records, she was the lead singer of the vocal group the Supremes, who became Motown's most successful act during the 1960s. Diana Ross has released 25 studio albums and approximately 105 singles.

7. Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey performs on the Sunset Stage during the Rock in Rio festival at Cidade do Rock in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Full name: Mariah Carey
Date of birth: 27 March 1969
Age: 55 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Huntington, New York, United States

Mariah Carey is a renowned singer and songwriter and is referred to as Songbird Supreme by Guinness World Records. She is recognised for her five-octave vocal range, melismatic singing style and use of the whistle register. Mariah Carey has won five Grammy Awards and has 15 studio albums and numerous songs.

8. Donna Summer

Donna Summer in concert at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles

Full name: Donna Adrian Gaines
Date of birth: 31 December 1948
Date of death: 17 May 2012
Age at death: 63 years
Place of birth: Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Donna Summer was known as the Queen of Disco. Her singing career peaked in the 1970s, and she released 17 studio albums with several songs. Donna Summer's best songs are Last Dance, Hot Stuff, I Feel Love and On the Radio.

9. Tina Turner

Tina Turner during a photo call for the musical 'Tina - Das Tina Turner Musical' at Mojo Club in Hamburg, Germany

Full name: Tina Turner
Date of birth: 26 November 1939
Date of death: 24 May 2023
Age at death: 83 years
Place of birth: Brownsville, Tennessee, United States

Tina Turner was nicknamed the Queen of Rock n Roll. She was a singer and songwriter famous for Simply The Best, What’s Love Got to Do with It, and Proud Mary. The late Tina Turner won eight Grammy Awards.

10. Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige performs during the 2023 Strength Of A Woman Festival & Summit - Mary J. Blige Concert at State Farm Arena in Atlanta

Full name: Mary Jane Blige
Date of birth: 11 January 1971
Age: 53 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Bronx, New York City, United States

Mary J. Blige is sometimes referred to as the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul. She has won multiple awards in the music industry, including nine Grammy Awards, a Primetime Emmy, and four American Music Awards. Her songs include Family Affair, Just Fine, Real Love, and Everything. Mary J. Blige ranks among the leading black female singers of the 90s.

11. Beyoncé

Beyoncé accepts the Best Rap Performance award for 'Savage' onstage during the Annual GRAMMY Awards at the Los Angeles Convention Centre in Los Angeles, California

Full name: Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter
Date of birth: 4 September 1981
Age: 43 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Houston, Texas, United States

Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter is considered one of the best black female singers of the 2000s. She gained prominence in the music industry in the 1990s as the lead singer of the girl group Destiny’s Child. Her debut album as a solo artist, Dangerously in Love, was released in 2003. Singer Beyoncé's notable songs include Beautiful Liar, Single Ladies, and Crazy in Love.

12. Big Mama Thornton

Big Mama Thornton performing on the ABC TV series 'Omnibus'

Full name: Willie Mae Thornton
Date of birth: 11 December 1926
Date of death: 25 July 1984
Age at death: 57 years
Place of birth: Ariton, Alabama, United States

Willie Mae Thornton, professionally known as Big Mama Thornton, was a songbird who sang R&B and blues. Besides singing, she was a drummer and harmonica player. Her songs include Hound Dog, Ball and Chain, Let’s Go Get Stoned, and My Man Called Me.

13. Lauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill attends GRAMMY Museum's Inaugural GRAMMY Hall Of Fame Gala and Concert presented by City National Bank at The Novo by Microsoft at L.A. Live in Los Angeles

Full name: Lauryn Hill
Date of birth: 26 May 1975
Age: 49 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Newark, New Jersey, United States

Lauryn Hill is a singer, songwriter, and rapper considered one of the greatest in history. She started singing at 13 and has so far released approximately 11 singles. She is an eight-time Grammy Award winner. Lauryn Hill is known for Ready or Not, Ex-Factor, and Turn Your Lights Down Low.

14. Roberta Flack

Salute to Industry Icons Honoring Sean "Diddy" Combs at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills

Full name: Roberta Cleopatra Flack
Date of birth: 10 February 1937
Age: 87 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Black Mountain, North Carolina, United States

Even though she has retired from singing, Roberta Flack was once a big name in the music industry. Roberta released several singles, including The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face and Where Is the Love, that topped Billboard charts. She is a four-time Grammy Award winner.

15. Patti LaBelle

Patti LaBelle visits SiriusXM at SiriusXM Studios in New York City

Full name: Patricia Louise Holte
Date of birth: 24 May 1944
Age: 80 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

Patricia Louise Holt is an actress and R&B singer recognised for songs such as On My Own, If You Only Knew, and New Attitude. Some music enthusiasts refer to her as the Grandmother of Soul. Patti LaBelle has won the Grammy Awards twice.

16. Bessie Smith

Full name: Bessie Smith
Date of birth: 15 April 1894
Date of death: 26 September 1937
Age at death: 43 years
Place of birth: Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States

The late Bessie Smith earned the nickname Empress of the Blues among her fans. Her peak music career was during the 1930s when she worked alongside top musicians such as Joe Smith and Charlie Green. Bessie Smith won multiple Grammy Hall of Fame Awards.

17. Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson speaks onstage during the 37th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California

Full name: Janet Damita Jo Jackson
Date of birth: 16 May 1966
Age: 58 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Gary, Indiana, United States

Janet Jackson is a singer, songwriter, and dancer. She has been in the music industry since 1974 and boasts multiple music albums with several songs, including Call on Me, Scream, Come On Get Up and Together Again. Janet Jackson has various music awards, including five Grammy Awards and 11 American Music Awards.

18. Natalie Cole

American singer Natalie Cole performs in concert during the "Veranos de la Villa" music festival at Puerta del Angel stage in Madrid, Spain

Full name: Natalie Maria Cole
Date of birth: 6 February 1950
Date of death: 31 December 2015
Age at death: 65 years
Place of birth: Los Angeles, California, United States

The late Natalie Cole was born into a family of singers and began singing at a young age. She gained prominence in the 1970s after releasing her first album, Inseparable. Her other music albums are Thankful, Stardust, and Everlasting. She won nine Grammy Awards.

19. Toni Braxton

Toni Braxton attends the Annual American Music Awards® - Press Room at Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles, California

Full name: Toni Michele Braxton
Date of birth: 7 October 1967
Age: 57 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Severn, Maryland, United States

Toni Braxton is one of the most famous black female singers. Her powerful vocals and soft, soothing tone have captivated her fans. The seven-time Grammy Award winner has been in the music industry since the 1980s. Toni Braxton's hits include Spanish Guitar, Breath Again, and He Wasn’t Man Enough.

20. Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys attends The Annual Tony Awards at David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Centre in New York City

Full name: Alicia Augello Cook
Date of birth: 25 January 1981
Age: 43 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Hell's Kitchen, New York, United States

Alicia Augello Cook's music journey began when she was 12. She started composing songs and was signed to a record label at 15. She is an R&B superstar known for songs such as My Boo, If I Ain’t Got You, Girl on Fire, and It’s On Again. Alicia Keys has several music awards, including 15 Grammy Awards.

21. Ella Mai

Ella Mai attends the BET Awards at Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles, California

Full name: Ella Mai Howell
Date of birth: 3 November 1994
Age: 30 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: London, United Kingdom

Ella Mai Howell is one of the top black female singers from the UK. Her musical career began at London's British and Irish Modern Music Institute in 2014. In 2015, Ella Mai released her debut four-track solo extended play, Troubled.

22. Anita Baker

Anita Baker attends Tyler Perry Studios grand opening gala at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, Georgia

Full name: Anita Denise Baker
Date of birth: 26 January 1958
Age: 66 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Toledo, Ohio, United States

Anita Denis Baker began her singing career in the 1970s as part of the funk band Chapter 8. She released her debut album, The Songtress, in 1983. Her famous songs include Sweet Love, No One in the World, Body and Soul, and Just Because. Anita Baker has eight Grammy Awards.

23. Minnie Riperton

Minnie Riperton performs on stage in New York in 1977

Full name: Minnie Julia Riperton Rudolph
Date of birth: 8 November 1947
Date of death: 12 July 1979
Age at death: 31 years
Place of birth: Chicago, Illinois, United States

Riperton was famous for her song Lovin’ You, released in 1975. She has a distinguished five-octave vocal range and whistle register. Minnie Riperton's other popular songs are Memory Lane, Inside My Love, and Here We Go.

24. Dinah Washington

Full name: Dinah Washington
Date of birth: 29 August 1924
Date of death: 14 December 1963
Age at death: 39 years
Place of birth: Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States

The late Dinah Washington was a jazz vocalist and pianist. She performed different genres of music, including R&B and pop. Dinah's career peaked in the 1950s. She released many hit tracks, including This Bitter Earth, Teach Me Tonight, and Let the Music Play. She won a Grammy Award in 1959.

25. Grace Jones

Full name: Grace Beverly Jones
Date of birth: 19 May 1948
Age: 76 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Spanish Town, Jamaica

Grace Jones is an African-American model, actress, and singer. She commenced her musical career in 1977 and recorded several songs with different recording labels in New York. Grace Jones' songs include Demolition Man and Private Life.

26. Gladys Knight

Full name: Gladys Maria Knight
Date of birth: 28 May 1944
Age: 80 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Gladys Knight is referred to as the Empress of Soul. She is a seven-time Grammy Award winner and gained popularity with her hits between 1960 and 1980. Gladys Knight is known for I Don’t Want to Know, License to Kill, and Neither One of Us.

27. Aaliyah

Full name: Aaliyah Dana Haughton
Date of birth: 16 January 1979
Date of death: 25 August 2001
Age at death: 22 years
Place of birth: Brooklyn, New York, United States

Aaliyah was an American singer whose career began at age 11. She is considered one of the people who refined contemporary R&B and hip hop. The late Aaliyah was also known as the Queen of Urban Pop.

28. Erykah Badu

Erykah Badu attends the Soul Train Awards at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada

Full name: Erica Abi Wright
Date of birth: 26 February 1971
Age: 53 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Dallas, Texas, United States

Erica Abi Wright, alias Erykah Badu, is an American singer, songwriter and rapper known for hits such as Otherside of the Game, Next Lifetime, and Bag Lady. She is a four-time Grammy Award winner.

29. Nina Simone

Nina Simone portrait on stage at JazzMecca in Maastricht

Full name: Nina Simone
Date of birth: 21 February 1933
Date of death: 21 April 2003
Age at death: 70 years
Place of birth: Tryon, North Carolina, United States

The late Nina Simone was a singer, songwriter, and pianist. She sang multiple music genres, including jazz, folk, R&B, pop, and classical. Some of her compositions are Central Park Blues, Sealion, and Blackbird.

30. Rihanna

Rihanna attends the Rihanna x Fenty Hair Los Angeles Launch Party at Nya Studios in Los Angeles

Full name: Robyn Rihanna Fenty
Date of birth: 20 February 1988
Age: 36 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Saint Michael, Barbados

Robyn Rihanna Fenty is one of the most popular black female singers ever. She has about eight studio albums and over 50 singles. Some of singer Rihanna's popular songs are Diamonds, Rude Boy, and Umbrella. She is a nine-time Grammy Award winner.

31. Mamie Smith

Full name: Mamie Smith
Date of birth: 26 May 1891
Date of death: 16 September 1946
Age at death: 55 years
Place of birth: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States

Mamie Smith was an American singer who sang jazz and blues. She was the first African-American musician to make vocal blues recordings in 1920. Mamie Smith's songs include Crazy Blues, That Thing Called Love, and Royal Garden Blues.

32. Gloria Gaynor

Full name: Gloria Fowles
Date of birth: 7 September 1943
Age: 81 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Newark, New Jersey, United States

Gloria Fowles, alias Gloria Gaynor, is best recognised for I Will Survive, First Be a Woman, and Never Can Say Goodbye. She attained success in the 1980s. Gloria is a two-time Grammy Award winner.

33. Chaka Khan

Chaka Khan performs at Stern Grove in San Francisco, California

Full name: Yvette Marie Stevens
Date of birth: 23 March 1953
Age: 71 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Chicago, Illinois, United States

Yvette Marie Stevens, alias Chaka Khan, started her musical journey in the 1970s when she was the lead singer of Rufus, a music band. She has been in the music industry for over 50 years and is known for songs such as Ain’t Nobody, Like Sugar, and I Feel for You. She is a ten-time Grammy Award winner.

34. Dionne Warwick

Dionne Warwick attends The Whitney E. Houston Annual Legacy Foundation's South Africa One Gala at The St Regis Hotel in Atlanta

Full name: Marie Dionne Warwick
Date of birth: 12 December 1940
Age: 84 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: East Orange, New Jersey, United States

Dionne Warwick, a five-time Grammy Award winner, is best known for Heartbreaker, Don’t Make Me Over, and Walk On By. She is considered the second-most charted female vocalist in the rock period. Dionne Warwick ranks among the 40 biggest American hitmakers between 1955 and 1999.

35. Mahalia Jackson

American gospel singer Mahalia Jackson performing in Copenhagen, Denmark

Full name: Mahalia Jackson
Date of birth: 26 October 1911
Date of death: 27 January 1972
Age at death: 60 years
Place of birth: New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

The late Mahalia Jackson was a renowned gospel singer with a career spanning over four decades. She is one of the pioneers of gospel blues, which is played in most black churches. Some of the gospel songs of the three-time Grammy Award winner are How I Got Over, Trouble of the World, and A City Called Heaven.

36. Chilli

Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas, Singer-Songwriter, TLC, attends the Fast Company Grill in Austin

Full name: Rozonda Ocielian Thomas
Date of birth: 27 February 1971
Age: 53 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Rozonda Ocielian Thomas, alias Chilli, is an American singer and dancer. She is part of the girl group TLC. Her songs include No Scrubs, Unpretty, and Red Light Special.

37. Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe at the "Soul Train Awards" in Los Angeles, California

Full name: Janelle Monáe Robinson
Date of birth: 1 December 1985
Age: 39 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Kansas City, Kansas, United States

Janelle Monáe Robinson is an American singer, songwriter, and rapper. Her style of music combines funk, soul, new wave, and hip-hop. Some of her popular hits include I Like That, Lipstick Lover, Make Me Feel, and Pynk. Janelle Monáe is among the famous black female singers.

38. Ciara

Ciara at the premiere of "The Color Purple" held at The Academy Museum in Los Angeles, California

Full name: Ciara Princess Wilson
Date of birth: 25 October 1985
Age: 39 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Fort Cavazos, Texas, United States

Ciara is a dancer, songwriter, and singer best known for singing Level Up, How We Roll, and Get Loose. The singer has released about seven studio albums with over 50 singles. Singer Ciara won a Grammy Award in 2006.

39. Normani

Normani at Essence Black Women in Hollywood held at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, California

Full name: Normani Kordei Hamilton
Date of birth: 31 May 1996
Age: 28 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Normani Kordei Hamilton is a dancer, singer, and songwriter known for being part of Fifth Harmony. She began singing in 2012, and some of her best songs are Dancing with a Stranger, That’s My Girl, and Work from Home. Singer Normani is among the young black female singers today.

40. Kelly Rowland

Kelly Rowland is seen at This Is It Soul Food as part of Local Eats Better with Pepsi campaign celebrating local restaurants in Houston

Full name: Kelendria Trene Rowland
Date of birth: 11 February 1981
Age: 43 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Kelly Rowland became famous as a member of the girl group Destiny’s Child. She later started a solo singing career and released numerous singles and collaborations. Kelly Rowland has won four Grammy Awards. Her popular songs include Brown Eyes, Like This, and Survivor.

41. Brandy

Brandy attends the Soul Train Awards presented by BET

Full name: Brandy Rayana Norwood
Date of birth: 11 February 1979
Age: 45 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: McComb, Mississippi, United States

Brandy began singing in her church’s choir before venturing into the entertainment industry. She is an R&B singer with hits such as Full Moon, The Boy Is Mine, I Do It for You, and Missing You. Did you know that singer Brandy started her career as a backing vocalist for teen groups?

42. Sade Adu

Vocalist Sade performs in concert at The Frank Erwin Centre in Austin

Full name: Helen Folasade Adu
Date of birth: 16 January 1959
Age: 65 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Ibadan, Nigeria

Helen Folasade Adu, alias Sade Adu, is a Nigerian-British singer and songwriter. She has a self-titled band in which she is the lead singer. Some of her well-known songs include Smooth Operator, No Ordinary Love, Kiss of Life, and The Sweetest Taboo.

43. Eartha Kitt

Eartha Kitt during the opening night of Radio City Music Hall's "Cinderella"

Full name: Eartha Mae Kitt
Date of birth: 17 January 1927
Date of death: 25 December 2008
Age at death: 81 years
Place of birth: North, South Carolina, United States

The late Eartha Kitt was a singer-actress whose professional career began in 1942 and thrived in the music and film industry. She had over 20 studio albums with several songs, such as Santa Baby, I Love Men, Where Is My Man, and Snuff Out The Light.

44. Tracy Chapman

Tracy Chapman attends Cirque du Soleil "Kurios" - Opening Night - San Francisco, CA at AT&T Park in San Francisco, California

Full name: Tracy Chapman
Date of birth: 30 March 1964
Age: 60 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Cleveland, Ohio, United States

Tracy Chapman is a four-time Grammy Award winner known for hits such as Fast Car, Give Me One Reason, Telling Stories, and The Promise. She sings folk, blues, rock, pop, and soul. In 2023, Tracy Chapman became the first Black person to score a country number one with a solo composition.

45. Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson attends the Annual GLAAD Media Awards in New York, New York City

Full name: Jennifer Kate Hudson
Date of birth: 12 September 1981
Age: 43 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Chicago, Illinois, United States

Jennifer Kate Hudson is a multiple award-winning singer-songwriter and actress. Her notable music awards include two Grammy Awards and BET Awards. Jennifer Hudson’s most popular songs are If This Isn’t Love, Spotlight, Giving Myself, and Think Like a Man.

46. Ashanti

Ashanti performs onstage the MTV Video Music Awards at Prudential Centre in Newark, New Jersey

Full name: Ashanti Shequoiya Douglas-Haynes
Date of birth: 13 October 1980
Age: 44 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Glen Cove, New York, United States

Ashanti discovered her talent as a teenager. Her music career took off after she signed with Murder Inc. Singer Ashanti has a single Grammy Award and is known for songs such as Foolish, Rain on Me, Happy, and Rock Wit U.

47. Celia Cruz

The One and Only Aretha Franklin' held at Radio City Music Hall in New York City

Full name: Celia Caridad Cruz Alfonso
Date of birth: 21 October 1925
Date of death: 16 July 2003
Age at death: 77 years
Place of birth: Fort Lee, New Jersey, United States

Celia Cruz is among the best black female singers of all time, having released over 50 music albums with several songs. The three-time Grammy Award winner’s singing career spanned about five decades. Celia Cruz was a Latino singer, and some of her best songs included Te Busco, La Vida es un Carnaval, and Quimbara.

48. Yolanda Adams

Yolanda Adams attends the BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards in Atlanta, Georgia

Full name: Yolanda Yvette Adams
Date of birth: 27 August 1961
Age: 63 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Houston, Texas, United States

Yolanda is a big name in the American gospel music industry. She is considered one of the all-time best-selling gospel artists. Yolanda Adams has four Grammy Awards, and her best songs include The Battle Is the Lord's, Open My Heart, and Be Blessed.

49. India Arie

India Arie attends the Annual Grammy Awards at Staples Centre in Los Angeles

Full name: India Arie Simpson
Date of birth: 3 October 1975
Age: 49 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Denver, Colorado, United States

India is an American singer and songwriter with about seven studio albums and several songs. She is among the best black female singers and has won four Grammy Awards, among other top musical awards. India Arie started singing in 1998 and is recognised for hits such as Steady Love, Brown Skin, and The Alphabet.

50. Nancy Sue Wilson

American Jazz singer Nancy Wilson (1937 - 2018) performs onstage during Chicagofest, Chicago

Full name: Nancy Sue Wilson
Date of birth: 20 February 1937
Date of death: 13 December 2018
Age at death: 81 years
Place of birth: Chillicothe, Ohio, United States

The late Nancy Sue Wilson was a jazz, pop, blues, and soul singer whose singing career spanned over five decades. She won the Grammy Awards three times and is known for songs such as Guess Who I Saw Today, How Glad I Am, and I Can’t Make You Love Me.

51. Deniece Williams

Deniece Williams performs during Mother's Day Experience Concert at Bank United Center in Miami

Full name: June Deniece Williams
Date of birth: 3 June 1951
Age: 73 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Gary, Indiana, United States

Deniece Williams is one of the great soul voices known for songs including Let’s Hear It From the Boy, Black Butterfly, and It’s Gonna Take a Miracle. She is a four-time Grammy Award winner. Deniece Williams is best known for the songs Free, Silly, and It's Gonna Take a Miracle.

52. Doja Cat

Doja Cat at The Albies, Clooney Foundation for Justice in New York, New York

Full name: Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini
Date of birth: 21 October 1995
Age: 29 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Tarzana, Los Angeles, California, United States

Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, alias Doja Cat, is one of the young black female singers today. The rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer began making and releasing music on SoundCloud in her teens. Her song, So High, caught the attention of Kemosabe and RCA Records, where she signed a joint record deal at 17.

53. Tamar Braxton

Tamar Braxton at the "Soul Train Awards" in Los Angeles, California

Full name: Tamar Estine Braxton
Date of birth: 17 March 1977
Age: 47 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Severn, Maryland, United States

Tamar Estine Braxton is a singer, songwriter, actress, and television personality. She began her career in 1990 as a founding member of The Braxtons, an R&B singing group formed with her sisters. Tamar Braxton has been nominated for four Grammy Awards as a solo artist.

54. Lizzo

Lizzo attends the Breakthrough Prize Ceremony at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles

Full name: Melissa Viviane Jefferson
Date of birth: 27 April 1988
Age: 36 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Detroit, Michigan, United States

Melissa Viviane Jefferson, alias Lizzo, is a singer and rapper. She attained mainstream success with the release of her third studio album, Cuz I Love You.

55. Mandisa

Recording artist Mandisa visits SiriusXM Studios in New York City

Full name: Mandisa Lynn Hundley
Date of birth: 2 October 1976
Date of death: 18 April 2024
Age at death: 47 years
Place of birth: Citrus Heights, California, United States

Mandisa Lynn Hundley was a gospel and contemporary Christian recording artist. She began her solo career as a contestant in the fifth season of American Idol. The late Mandisa won a Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album.

56. Andra Day

Andra Day visits SiriusXM Studios in New York City

Full name: Cassandra Monique Batie
Date of birth: 30 December 1984
Age: 40 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Edmonds, Washington, United States

Cassandra Monique Batie, alias Andra Day, is an R&B and soul singer, songwriter, and actress. She has won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award, a Children's and Family Emmy Award, and a Golden Globe Award.

57. Estelle

Singer/songwriter Estelle performs onstage during the NAN Triumph Awards at 200 Peachtree in Atlanta, Georgia

Full name: Estelle Fanta Swaray
Date of birth: 18 January 1980
Age: 44 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Hammersmith, London, United Kingdom

Estelle Fanta Swaray is a singer-songwriter, rapper, and record producer known for her eclectic blending of musical genres, including R&B, soul, reggae, grime, hip-hop, and dance. Singer Estelle has collaborated with prominent music artists, including Akon, Chris Brown, Ye, and Nas.

58. SZA

SZA poses in the press room during the iHeartRadio Music Awards at Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California

Full name: Solána Imani Rowe
Date of birth: 8 November 1989
Age: 35 years (as of 2014)
Place of birth: St. Louis, Missouri, United States

Solána Imani Rowe, alias SZA, is a singer-songwriter. She first gained recognition through her self-released EPs See.SZA.Run and S. After signing a joint recording contract with RCA Records, SZA released her debut studio album, Ctrl, in 2017.

59. Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey attends Vanity Fair Oscar After Party Arrivals at Wallis Annenberg Centre for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills

Full name: Halle Lynn Bailey
Date of birth: 27 March 2000
Age: 24 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Halle Lynn Bailey is a singer and actress. She first became known as one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle with her sister Chloe Bailey. They have released the albums The Kids Are Alright and Ungodly Hour. In 2023, Halle Bailey released her debut solo track, Angel, which was nominated for a Grammy Award.

60. Candi Staton

Candi Staton attends as Charlotte Tilbury celebrates the launch of her first fragrance "Scent Of A Dream" with 'face' Kate Moss, featuring a live performance by Candi Staton

Full name: Canzetta Maria Staton
Date of birth: 13 March 1940
Age: 84 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Hanceville, Alabama, United States

Canzetta Maria Staton, alias Candi Staton, is a singer and songwriter best known for her 1970 cover of Tammy Wynette's Stand by Your Man. She was inducted into the Christian Music Hall of Fame and is a four-time Grammy Award nominee.

61. Emeli Sandé

Emeli Sandé poses for a photo at UK Black Pride in London, England

Full name: Adele Emily Sandé
Date of birth: 10 March 1987
Age: 37 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Sunderland, United Kingdom

Adele Emily Sandé, alias Emeli Sandé, is a Scottish singer and songwriter. She rose to prominence after her guest appearance on Chipmunk's single Diamond Rings. In 2018, she performed the singing voice of Thethuthinnang in the miniseries Watership Down.

62. Lisa Fischer

Lisa Fischer performs onstage during the Alzheimer's Association Imagine Benefit, built on the legacy of the Rita Hayworth Gala at Jazz at Lincoln Centre in New York City

Full name: Lisa Melonie Fischer
Date of birth: 1 December 1958
Age: 66 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: New York, New York, United States

Lisa Melonie Fischer is a singer and songwriter. She found success with her 1991 debut album, So Intense, which produced the Grammy Award-winning hit single How Can I Ease the Pain. Lisa Fischer has been a back-up singer for various A-list artists.

63. Macy Gray

Macy Gray performs at Blue Note in Milan, Italy

Full name: Natalie Renée McIntyre
Date of birth: 6 September 1967
Age: 57 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Canton, Ohio, United States

Natalie Renée McIntyre, alias Macy Gray, is an R&B and soul singer and actress. She is known for her distinctive raspy voice and a singing style heavily influenced by Billie Holiday. She has released ten studio albums, and received one Grammy Award.

64. Rita Ora

Rita Ora at the FOX Fall Press Day Red Carpet held at the FOX Lot in Los Angeles, California

Full name: Rita Sahatçiu Ora
Date of birth: 26 November 1990
Age: 34 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Pristina

Rita Ora is a British singer, songwriter, television personality, and actress. She rose to prominence after featuring on DJ Fresh's 2012 single, Hot Right Now. Aside from her recording career, Rita Ora has served as a judge on television talent shows, including The X Factor UK, The Masked Singer UK, and The Masked Singer US.

65. Tiwa Savage

Voice Of The Forest" at iPic Theatre in Los Angeles, California

Full name: Tiwatope Omolara Savage
Date of birth: 5 February 1980
Age: 44 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria

Tiwatope Omolara Savage, alias Tiwa Savage, is a singer, songwriter, and actress. She sings in English and Yoruba. Her music blends Afrobeats, R&B, Afropop, pop, and hip-hop. In November 2018, Savage won Best African Act at the 2018 MTV Europe Music Awards.

66. Leona Lewis

Leona Lewis attends Maison De Mode's Sustainable Style Awards at 1 Hotel West Hollywood in West Hollywood, California

Full name: Leona Louise Lewis
Date of birth: 3 April 1985
Age: 39 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Islington, London, United Kingdom

Leona Louise Lewis is a British singer, songwriter, actress, model, and activist. She achieved national recognition when she won the third series of The X Factor in 2006. Leona Lewis has sold over 35 million records worldwide.

67. Fantasia

Fantasia Barrino speaks onstage during the Hallmark Mahogany Honors Brunch at InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta in Atlanta

Full name: Fantasia Monique Barrino-Taylor
Date of birth: 30 June 1984
Age: 40 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: High Point, North Carolina, United States

Fantasia Monique Barrino-Taylor, alias Fantasia, is a singer and actress. She rose to prominence for performing the Porgy and Bess standard Summertime during the third season of American Idol. Her accolades include two Billboard Music Awards and a Grammy Award.

68. Monica

Monica arrives for the MTV Video Music Awards at the Prudential Centre in Newark, New Jersey

Full name: Monica Denise Arnold
Date of birth: 24 October 1980
Age: 44 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: College Park, Georgia, United States

Monica Denise Arnold is a singer, rapper, songwriter, and actress. She gained prominence following the release of her debut studio album, Miss Thang. Singer Monica has sold more than five million albums in the United States.

69. CeCe Winans

CeCe Winans attends BMI's Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards in Nashville, Tennessee

Full name: Priscilla Marie Winans Love
Date of birth: 8 October 1964
Age: 60 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Detroit, Michigan, United States

Priscilla Marie Winans Love, alias CeCe Winans, is a gospel singer with 15 Grammy Awards, the most for any female gospel singer. She is the best-selling and most-awarded female gospel singer of all time. She first rose to prominence in the 1980s as part of BeBe & CeCe Winans.

70. Angélique Kidjo

Ibrahim Maalouf With Special Guest D Smoke at The GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles

Full name: Angélique Kpasseloko Hinto Hounsinou Kandjo Manta Zogbin Kidjo
Date of birth: 14 July 1960
Age: 64 years (as of 2024)
Place of birth: Ouidah, Benin

Angélique Kidjo is among the most famous black female singers today. The Beninese-French singer-songwriter, actress, and activist is best known for her diverse musical influences and creative music videos. Angélique Kidjo has won five Grammy Awards.

Who are the top black female country singers?

Mickey Guyton, Rissi Palmer, Brittney Spencer, Linda Martell, Reyna Roberts, Miko Marks, Yola, Julie Williams, and Rhiannon Giddens are among the top black female country singers of all time.

Who is the best female R&B singer today?

The best female R&B singers today include SZA, Jhené Aiko, H.E.R., Summer Walker, Tyler, Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige, Coco Jones, Ella Mai, and Victoria Monét.

Who was the best black female singer?

The best black female singers of all time include Whitney Houston, Etta James, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Tina Turner, Billie Holiday, Diana Ross, Nina Simone, Gladys Knight, and Patti LaBelle.

Who was the first African American female singer?

On 14 February 1920, 28-year-old Mamie Smith walked into a recording studio in New York City and made history.

Who is the most successful black female singer?

Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Mariah Carey, Tina Turner, and Beyoncé are among the most successful black female singers.

The best black female singers of all time have made indelible marks in the music industry. Their music has stood the test of time, entertaining and inspiring generations.

Legit.ng recently published a list of the youngest EGOT stars. EGOT stands for the Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards, the four greatest awards in the entertainment industry.

There are 21 individuals, including Pasek and Paul, who attained their EGOT status on 8 September 2024 when they won a Primetime Emmy and distinguished themselves as EGOT winners.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:

Muhunya Muhonji (Lifestyle writer) Muhunya is a graduate of Agricultural Economics from Egerton University, Class of 2014, with a passion for storytelling and content creation. Since joining Legit.ng as a writer in July 2021, he has covered diverse topics such as entertainment, technology, business, and biographies. His journalism journey has seen him complete multiple professional courses, including the AFP Digital Investigation Techniques course (2023), the Google News Initiative course (March 2024), and Fact-Checking and Research training (September 2024). Email: muhunyah@gmail.com

Cyprine Apindi (Lifestyle writer) Cyprine Apindi is a content creator and educator with over six years of experience. She holds a Diploma in Mass Communication and a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Kenyatta University. Cyprine joined Briefly.co.za in mid-2021, covering multiple topics, including finance, entertainment, sports, and lifestyle. In 2023, she finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. She received the 2023 Writer of the Year Award. In 2024, she completed the Google News Initiative course. Email: cyprineapindi@gmail.com

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