The Best Female R&B Singers

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Welcome to a celebration of the finest talents in R&B. These remarkable women have graced us with their soulful voices, emotional depth, and unparalleled artistry.

From the captivating storytelling of Alicia Keys to the ethereal soundscapes of Jhené Aiko, each artist on this list has left an indelible mark on the genre. Dive into the sonic journeys of H.E.R., SZA, Summer Walker, and more, as they redefine the landscape of contemporary R&B with their powerhouse vocals and unparalleled musical expression. This compilation honors the legacy and ongoing contributions of these incredible female artists, making them the undeniable queens of R&B.


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  1. Dua Lipa

    Dua Lipa has become one of the most successful singers in the world in such a short time.

    Dua Lipa is an English singer, songwriter and model of Albanian descent, living in London, England in 1995. Her musical career began at a young age and by the time she was 14 years old, after signing with Warner Music Group in 2015, she began working on her debut studio album. Her first singles "Be the One" and "Hotter Than Hell" were released in 2016 and reached the top 10 in several countries. Her self-titled album was released in February 2018. The album spawned seven singles, including "New Rules", which reached number one in the United Kingdom. Dua Lipa won six Brit Awards in 2018.
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  2. Demi Lovato is a popular actress and singer with a long list of hits. Some of her most famous songs include "Skyscraper", "Cool for the Summer", "Heart Attack" and "Sorry Not Sorry"

    Demi Lovato is a singer and a songwriter who has been nominated for and won many awards, including the Latin Grammy Award in 2011. She has sold over 20 million albums worldwide and holds the record for most songs to debut in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 by a female artist. She also has her own clothing line, Lovato Fashion, and she was the face of Disney Channel's Princess Protection Program.
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  3. Ariana Grande's sweetly sexy voice, spiked with playful and swooning ballads, has made her one of pop music's most acclaimed breakout performers in recent years. Her youth-oriented songs have garnered millions of fans who relate to her personal trials and tribulations.

    Ariana Grande is an American singer and actress best known for her hit songs and roles in Disney Channel and Broadway musicals. The singer, who was born in Boca Raton, Florida, has a ton of talent and could go on to become even more famous than she is today. Her music is often described as unique and honest, which has given her a large fan base. Much of her success has been attributed to her social media presence, which has allowed her to connect with her fans in a way that other stars cannot. She is widely known for her hit songs, including the number-one song, Thank U, Next , “Into You’” ,“My Everything” and more.
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  4. Beyonce

    There are few people in the world who can sing, act and dress like Beyonce. She is one of them!She is an unstoppable force that has captivated audiences around the world with her sexy style and powerful voice.

    Beyonce is one of the most successful and popular entertainers in the world. She began her career as a member of the R&B group Destiny's Child, and she has since gone on to enjoy a hugely successful solo career. As well as being an accomplished singer and songwriter, Beyonce is also an acclaimed actress. She has starred in a number of films, including 'Dreamgirls' and 'The Fighting Temptations'. In addition to her many talents, Beyonce is also widely considered to be one of the most beautiful women in the world. Her striking features and curvaceous figure have made her a global style icon, and she regularly tops lists of the world's most sexy women. There is no doubt that Beyonce is a hugely talented and incredibly successful woman.
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  5. Rihanna

    Rihanna is a true superstar. Not only is she an incredible singer and songwriter, but she's also a talented actress and fashion designer.

    Rihanna is one of the most popular and successful recording artists of all time. She has also made a name for herself as a fashion designer and model. Born in Barbados in 1988, Rihanna began her music career in 2005 with the release of her debut album, "Music of the Sun". Since then, she has gone on to release eight additional studio albums, including the Grammy-winning "Unapologetic". In addition to her musical accomplishments, Rihanna has also been a successful fashion designer. In 2016, she launched her own fashion line, "Fenty x Puma". The following year, she was named Creative Director of Puma. As a model, Rihanna has appeared on the cover of numerous magazines, including "Vogue", "Harper's Bazaar" and "Elle". She has also been the face of a number of high-profile advertising campaigns, including those for Dior, Balmain, and Fenty Beauty. Throughout her career, Rihanna has been widely praised for her sex appeal and stylishness. In 2018, she was named one of Time magazine's "100 Most Influential People".

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  6. Doja Cat

    Doja Cat is a rapper and singer whose career began almost accidentally. She released “Mooo!”, a viral meme song, which launched her into popularity. Her career continued to grow and she is now heavily aided by her social media presence on apps like TikTok and Instagram.

    Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, professionally known as Doja Cat, is a singer and songwriter who hails from America. She is also a rapper and record producer of South African descent. She first began composing and releasing music on SoundCloud at the age of 17. Her song "So High" caught the attention of Kemosabe Records and RCA Records, thus signing a contract with them. Doja has been known through the TikTok application. On October 30, 2020, Ariana Grande released her sixth album in which Doja also participated with vocals in the song 'motive'.
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  7. Sheena Easton, born Sheena Shirley Orr in 1959, is a Scottish singer, actress, and producer.

    Rising to international fame in the late 1970s and achieving significant success in the 1980s, Easton is known for her versatile voice that spans pop, adult contemporary, and dance genres. Her notable hits include "Morning Train (Nine to Five)" and the James Bond theme song "For Your Eyes Only". In addition to her music career, Easton has made strides in acting, appearing in films, TV shows, and stage productions. With Grammy Awards and a successful career that transcends various entertainment mediums, Sheena Easton remains a prominent and multifaceted figure in the world of entertainment.

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  8. Zendaya

    Zendaya, born on September 1, 1996, is an American actress, singer, and producer.

    She rose to fame on the Disney Channel's "Shake It Up" and gained critical acclaim for her role in the HBO series "Euphoria". Beyond acting, Zendaya is a successful singer and a fashion icon. In 2020, she made history by becoming the youngest actress to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. 

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  9. Victoria Beckham, also known as "Posh Spice" from the Spice Girls, transitioned from a successful music career in the 1990s to become a notable figure in the fashion industry.

    She is a British fashion designer and businesswoman, launching her own fashion label in 2008. The Victoria Beckham brand focuses on women's ready-to-wear clothing, accessories, and eyewear. Beckham has received recognition for her contributions to the fashion world and has showcased her collections at events like New York Fashion Week. For the latest information, please check more recent sources.

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  10. Mary J. Blige, born on January 11, 1971, is an acclaimed American singer, songwriter, and actress, known as the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.

    Rising to prominence in the early 1990s with her debut album "What's the 411?" Blige's powerful and soulful voice set her apart. She skillfully blends R&B, hip-hop, and soul, creating hits like "Real Love" and "No More Drama". Beyond her successful music career, Blige has earned acclaim in acting, particularly for her role in "Mudbound" which garnered an Academy Award nomination. Throughout her career, Mary J. Blige has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in contemporary R&B and an influential figure in the entertainment industry.


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  11. Tina Turner, born Anna Mae Bullock on November 26, 1939, is a legendary American-born Swiss singer, actress, and dancer known as the "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll".

    Rising to fame in the 1960s and 1970s as part of Ike & Tina Turner, she later found solo success with hits like "What's Love Got to Do with It" and "Private Dancer". Tina Turner's dynamic stage presence, powerful voice, and energetic performances have made her an iconic figure in the music industry. Beyond music, she earned acclaim for her acting roles, notably in "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome". Turner's enduring influence is reflected in her multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying her status as a legendary and influential figure in rock and pop music.

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  12. Aretha Franklin, the "Queen of Soul" was a legendary American singer, songwriter, and pianist.

    Born in Memphis, Tennessee, she began her singing career in the church and rose to prominence with Atlantic Records. Franklin's powerful and emotive voice, blending gospel, R&B, and pop, produced iconic hits like "Respect", "Think" and "A Natural Woman". Her rendition of "Respect" became a symbol of empowerment for civil rights and feminism. With 18 Grammy Awards, Franklin's influence reached beyond music, making her a cultural icon. Her legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of all time endures, and she is remembered for her indelible impact on soul and popular music.

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  13. Diana Ross

    Diana Ross, born on March 26, 1944, is an iconic American singer, actress, and record producer.

    She first gained fame as the lead singer of the Supremes in the 1960s. After leaving the group in 1970, Ross launched a highly successful solo career, producing hits like "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and "Endless Love". Known for her powerful voice and versatility across genres, including soul and disco, she is celebrated as one of the greatest female vocalists in the history of popular music. In addition to her music career, Ross has ventured into acting, starring in acclaimed films like "Lady Sings the Blues". Over the years, she has received numerous awards and honors, solidifying her status as a cultural icon.

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  14. Chaka Khan

    Chaka Khan, born Yvette Marie Stevens on March 23, 1953, is an influential American singer, songwriter, and musician known as the "Queen of Funk".

    She rose to prominence as the lead vocalist for the funk band Rufus in the 1970s, producing hits like "Tell Me Something Good". Chaka Khan's dynamic voice and stage presence led to a successful solo career, with hits such as "I'm Every Woman" and "I Feel for You". Renowned for her versatility, she has explored various genres, including funk, R&B, jazz, and pop. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame both as a solo artist and with Rufus, Chaka Khan remains a respected figure in the music industry, celebrated for her enduring impact on funk and R&B.

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  15. Ciara

    Ciara, born on October 25, 1985, is an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and model.

    Rising to fame in the mid-2000s with hits like "Goodies" and "1, 2 Step" Ciara is known for her smooth vocals, energetic performances, and dance skills. She has released several successful albums, including "Ciara" and "Fantasy Ride". Ciara has also ventured into acting and modeling, in addition to engaging in philanthropic activities. 

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  16. Janet Jackson, born on May 16, 1966, is an American singer, actress, and dancer from the renowned Jackson family.

    Rising to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with albums like "Control" and "Rhythm Nation 1814" she is known for her distinctive voice, innovative music videos, and socially conscious themes. Some of her hits include "Nasty" and "That's the Way Love Goes". Beyond music, Janet has had a successful acting career and is recognized for her philanthropy. 

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  17. Paula Abdul is an American dancer, choreographer, singer, actress, and television personality, born on June 19, 1962, in San Fernando, California.

     She gained prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a choreographer for artists like Janet Jackson, and she became widely recognized for her own successful music and dance career.

    Paula Abdul released hit songs like "Straight Up" "Forever Your Girl" and "Opposites Attract" which helped establish her as a pop music sensation. In addition to her music career, Abdul is known for her role as a judge on the television competition shows "American Idol" and "So You Think You Can Dance" where she provided feedback on contestants' singing and dancing abilities.

    Throughout her career, Paula Abdul has received numerous awards for her contributions to the entertainment industry, including a Grammy Award for Best Music Video for "Opposites Attract".

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  18. Queen Naija, whose full name is Queen Naija Bulls, is an American singer, songwriter, and YouTuber.

    She gained recognition through her participation in "American Idol" and later rose to fame with her YouTube channel. Her music career took off with the success of her debut single "Medicine" in 2018. Queen Naija is known for creating music that reflects personal experiences and relationships.

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  19. Ari Lennox

    Ari Lennox, whose full name is Courtney Shanade Salter, is an American singer and songwriter known for her soulful and R&B music

    She gained recognition with her debut EP, "Pho" in 2016, and later signed to Dreamville Records. Her debut studio album, "Shea Butter Baby" released in 2019, received critical acclaim for its smooth and soulful sound. Lennox is praised for her powerful and emotive vocal delivery, and her music often explores themes of love, self-discovery, and empowerment. 

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  20. Jazmine Sullivan is an American singer and songwriter known for her powerful and emotive vocal performances in the soul and R&B genres.

    Born in 1987 in Philadelphia, she gained recognition with her debut album "Fearless" in 2008, featuring hits like "Need U Bad" and "Bust Your Windows". After taking breaks from the industry, she returned with the acclaimed album "Reality Show" in 2015 and released the EP "Heaux Tales" in 2021, exploring themes of love and womanhood. Sullivan has received awards and accolades for her musical contributions.

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  21. Chlöe Bailey, often known simply as Chlöe, is an American singer, songwriter, and one-half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle

    Chloe x Halle gained recognition for their harmonious vocals and were initially discovered on YouTube by Beyoncé. The duo signed to Beyoncé's record label, Parkwood Entertainment.

    Chlöe Bailey's solo career gained attention with the release of her debut single "Have Mercy" in 2021. The song showcased her versatility as an artist and received positive reviews for its bold and confident sound. Chlöe has also expressed her individuality through her fashion and creative projects.

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  22. Coco Jones

    Coco Jones, born Courtney Jones on January 4, 1998, is an American singer, actress, and songwriter.

    She gained recognition for her participation in the Disney Channel's "Next Big Thing" (N.B.T.) in 2010. Jones later starred in the Disney Channel film "Let It Shine" in 2012, where she played the lead role of Roxanne "Roxie" Andrews.

    As a singer, Coco Jones has released several singles, and her music often incorporates elements of pop and R&B. Some of her notable songs include "Holla at the DJ" and "World Is Dancing." She has showcased her vocal talents and acting skills, building a presence in the entertainment industry.

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  23. Ella Mai

    Ella Mai is a British singer and songwriter known for her breakout single "Boo'd Up" in 2018, which brought her widespread recognition.

    Born on November 3, 1994, in London, she signed with DJ Mustard's label, 10 Summers Records, and released her self-titled debut album in the same year, featuring hits like "Trip". Ella Mai is praised for her soulful voice and her ability to blend R&B with contemporary sounds, establishing herself as a notable figure in the modern R&B scene. 

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  24. Jhené Aiko is an American singer and songwriter known for her soulful and ethereal R&B music.

    Born on March 16, 1988, in Los Angeles, she gained recognition through mixtapes like "Sailing Soul(s)" and "Souled Out" leading to her debut studio album of the same name. Her music often explores themes of love, healing, and spirituality, featuring soothing and emotionally resonant vocals. Jhené has collaborated with various artists and is celebrated for her contributions to the modern R&B scene. 

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  25. Alicia Keys, born on January 25, 1981, is an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and record producer.

    She gained fame in the early 2000s with her debut album "Songs in A Minor," featuring hit singles like "Fallin'". Known for her soulful voice and piano skills, Keys has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards. Beyond her music career, she is recognized for activism and philanthropy.

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  26. Kehlani

    Kehlani, born on April 24, 1995, is an American singer, songwriter, and dancer from Oakland, California.

    She gained recognition through her participation in "America's Got Talent" in 2011 and later as part of the group Poplyfe. Launching her solo career, Kehlani achieved widespread acclaim with her mixtape "Cloud 19" in 2014. Her debut album, "SweetSexySavage" released in 2017, showcased her R&B, hip-hop, and pop influences. Known for candid and emotionally charged lyrics, she continued to release successful projects like "While We Wait" (2019) and "It Was Good Until It Wasn't" (2020).

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  27. Summer Walker, born on April 11, 1996, is an American singer and songwriter from Atlanta, Georgia.

    She gained widespread recognition with her debut studio album, "Over It" released in 2019, featuring hit singles like "Girls Need Love" and "Playing Games". Summer Walker is known for her soulful voice, introspective lyrics, and a blend of traditional R&B with modern influences. She has received acclaim for her contributions to the contemporary R&B scene and has been noted for her unique style.

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  28. H.E.R.

    H.E.R., born Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson on June 27, 1997, is an American singer, songwriter, and musician.

    Adopting the acronym for "Having Everything Revealed" she gained recognition for her soulful and emotive music, blending R&B, soul, and contemporary styles. Initially maintaining anonymity, H.E.R. released successful EPs, leading to her self-titled compilation album in 2017. Known for exceptional vocals, guitar skills, and socially conscious lyrics, she has won multiple Grammy Awards. H.E.R. remains a prominent figure in contemporary R&B and soul.

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  29. SZA

    SZA, born Solána Imani Rowe on November 8, 1989, is an American singer and songwriter known for her unique blend of R&B, neo-soul, and alternative music.

    She gained recognition with her debut EP "See.SZA.Run" in 2012 and achieved widespread acclaim with her album "Ctrl" in 2017, featuring hit singles like "Love Galore" and "The Weekend". Recognized for her distinctive voice and introspective lyrics, SZA has become a prominent figure in contemporary music, collaborating with various artists.

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  30. Normani

    Normani Kordei Hamilton, known mononymously as Normani, is an American singer and dancer born on May 31, 1996.

    Initially part of the girl group Fifth Harmony from "The X Factor" she embarked on a solo career after the group's hiatus. Normani gained recognition for collaborations like "Love Lies" with Khalid. Her solo work, including the hit "Motivation" showcases her dynamic stage presence and vocal abilities.

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  31. Tinashe

    Tinashe Jorgensen Kachingwe, known as Tinashe, is an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and actress born on February 6, 1993, in Lexington, Kentucky.

    She initially gained recognition as part of the girl group The Stunners before pursuing a solo career. Tinashe rose to prominence with mixtapes like "In Case We Die" and her debut studio album "Aquarius," featuring the hit single "2 On". Known for her sultry vocals and versatile dancing, she continued to explore various genres with projects like "Nightride" and "Joyride". In addition to her music career, Tinashe has ventured into acting. 

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  32. Teyana Taylor, born on December 10, 1990, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and dancer from Harlem, New York.

    She gained early recognition on MTV's "My Super Sweet 16" in 2007 and later signed to Pharrell Williams' Star Trak Entertainment. Known for her soulful voice and captivating performances, Teyana released her debut studio album "VII" in 2014 and gained further prominence with her appearance in Kanye West's "Fade" music video in 2016. Her second album, "K.T.S.E." produced by Kanye West, was released in 2018. 

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  33. Muni Long

    Muni Long, born on October 15, 1992, is an American singer, songwriter, and producer known for her work in the R&B and pop genres.

    She gained attention for her solo career and her contributions to the music industry. Muni Long has showcased her versatility as a musician through her writing, production, and performances.

    Known for her soulful voice and captivating stage presence, Muni Long has released various songs that have resonated with audiences. Her work often explores themes of love, relationships, and self-empowerment.

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  34. Victoria Monét, born on May 1, 1993, is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for her contributions to R&B and soul music.

     She gained prominence as a songwriter before launching her solo career with EPs like "Nightmares & Lullabies" and "Life After Love". Recognized for her soulful voice and honest lyricism, Victoria Monét has collaborated with artists such as Ariana Grande. 

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  35. Kiana Ledé, born on April 3, 1997, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and pianist.

    Initially recognized for her acting, she gained prominence as a singer with the release of EPs like "Selfless" and "Myself". Her debut studio album, "Kiki" released in 2020, features the hit single "Ex". Known for her versatile vocal range and emotive performances, Kiana Ledé has earned acclaim for blending R&B, pop, and soul influences.

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  36. Jorja Smith, born on June 11, 1997, is an English singer and songwriter known for her soulful and R&B-influenced music.

    She gained recognition with her debut single "Blue Lights" in 2016 and further solidified her reputation with her debut studio album, "Lost & Found," released in 2018. Jorja's music is characterized by a blend of R&B, soul, and jazz, and she is acclaimed for her distinctive voice and insightful songwriting. Her contributions have made her a prominent figure in the contemporary music scene.

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  37. Sevyn Streeter, born on July 7, 1986, is an American singer and songwriter known for her versatile talent in the R&B and contemporary music scene.

    Rising from girl groups like TG4 and RichGirl, she achieved solo success with the hit single "It Won't Stop" featuring Chris Brown in 2013. Sevyn has released solo projects, including EPs like "Call Me Crazy, But..." and "Shoulda Been There, Pt. 1" showcasing her powerful vocals and songwriting skills. She continues to contribute to the music industry with collaborations and solo endeavors. 

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  38. Mariah the Scientist, born Mariah Buckles, is an American singer and songwriter known for her unique blend of R&B and alternative music.

     She gained recognition with her debut EP "To Die For" in 2017, showcasing soulful vocals and introspective lyrics. Mariah the Scientist continued to evolve her style with the release of her debut album "Master" in 2019.

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  39. Lizzo

    Lizzo, born Melissa Viviane Jefferson in 1988, is an American singer, rapper and actress.

    Known for her powerful vocals and energetic stage presence, she gained mainstream recognition with her 2019 album "Cuz I Love You" featuring hits like "Truth Hurts" and "Good as Hell". Lizzo's music blends hip-hop, R&B, and pop, often promoting messages of self-love and empowerment. Beyond her musical career, she is celebrated for advocating body positivity and challenging societal norms. 

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  40. Layton Greene, born Layton Jones on December 4, 1998, is an American singer and songwriter.

    Hailing from East St. Louis, Illinois, she gained recognition with her soulful vocals and emotional performances. Layton rose to prominence with her rendition of Kodak Black's "Roll in Peace" which went viral on social media.

    She signed with Quality Control Music and released her debut EP, "Tell Ya Story" in 2018. Layton Greene is known for her R&B and soul-infused music, often exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth in her lyrics.

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  41. Etta James

    Etta James was an influential American singer known for her powerful and versatile voice spanning blues, R&B, soul, and gospel.

    Born as Jamesetta Hawkins, she overcame personal challenges to become a respected and iconic vocalist. Her breakthrough in the late 1950s with hits like "At Last" showcased her ability to convey deep emotions. Throughout her career, James received six Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1993) and the Blues Hall of Fame (2001). Her enduring influence on multiple genres and generations solidifies her legacy as one of the most significant voices in the history of American music. Etta James passed away on January 20, 2012, leaving behind a rich and timeless body of work.

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  42. Chaeryeong

    Lee Chaeryeong is a South Korean singer and dancer, born on June 5, 2001, in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea.

    She gained recognition through her participation in the survival show "SIXTEEN" and later became a member of the girl group ITZY under JYP Entertainment. ITZY debuted in February 2019 and quickly rose to fame with their energetic performances and unique music style.


  43. Seulgi

    Kang Seul-gi, known as Seulgi, is a South Korean singer born on February 10, 1994.

     She is a member of the girl group Red Velvet, formed under SM Entertainment, which debuted in 2014. Seulgi is recognized for her versatile talents in singing and dancing, contributing to Red Velvet's success with their diverse music styles and successful releases.

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  44. Taeyeon

    Kim Tae-yeon, known as Taeyeon, is a South Korean singer and actress born on March 9, 1989.

    She gained fame as the leader of the popular K-pop group Girls' Generation. Taeyeon is recognized for her powerful vocals and has a successful solo career with hits like I and Fine. Apart from music, she has ventured into acting, appearing in TV dramas such as You're All Surrounded. Taeyeon is a prominent figure in the South Korean entertainment industry.

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