I like to pretend I'm a good singer, but when I listen to any of the seven upcoming names, I go hide in my corner and encourage myself until I'm ready to face the world again. But when I'm not using my ears to crush my own ego, I enjoy every second of these seven peoples' voices. Not much commentary on my end this time around; I'll just embed a favorite example of each person's voice, and maybe say a bit as I feel necessary.
Let's be clear: I do NOT believe that these are the seven greatest voices in the world or of all time. These are just my own personal favorite. Thus...
Superfine Seven: Voices
1. Jon McLaughlin
Yeah, the amazing piano playing is a part of it too, but this guy's voice is both strong and soothing.
2. Alejandro Manzano (Boyce Avenue) and 3. Kina Grannis
The second most viewed band on YouTube, Boyce Avenue is mostly known for beautifully-arranged covers of popular music from several generations. Kina Grannis is another sensation born from YouTube, starting to become more known for her original music, but also gaining popularity through some cover work. One of my favorite videos of all time, here is both of them:
4. Phil Wickham
Certainly not the cleanest voice around, but the blemishes in the character of his voice create the raw power and emotion that brings out his equally beautiful and spiritual poetic lyrics.
5. Jeff Buckley
A prodigy who left our world too soon, Buckley will always be remembered for his rendition of this song, along with the amazing talent in his voice that still hasn't been heard by enough of the world.
6. Kanye West
This may seem like a curveball, but there's no doubt that the enigma that is Kanye West has a very outspoken voice. For me, it's a little more than his strong opinions: clever lyrics and use of inflections in his voice help him to be one of the great hip-hop artists of our generation. I definitely don't agree with the messages in some of his music, but I can't deny how smooth he is.
7. Chris Cornell (Soundgarden, Audioslave)
For those who know me, power and energy are two of the elements in music that I search for the most. Chris Cornell has those elements in one of the most unique voices in history. Again, not a fan of everything he sings about, but when he sings, I can't stop listening.
I encourage you to take a second to think of your seven favorite voices too. It can be fun to share!
I don't think I evaluate (or technically hear) people's voices enough to make a valid list of my favorite singers...so my list will be bias and based on the overall music he/she/they produce.
ReplyDeleteCorrie's favorite seven singers (in no particular order):
1. OneRepublic - Granted I only have one of their albums, Waking Up, but I think Ryan Tedder is one talented musician.
2. Jack Johnson - Again, not sure if he's the best singer, but his music defines my high school years. Ultimate chill music.
3. Jars of Clay - as far as Christian music goes, favorite band. also, Dan Haseltine has such range!
4. The Postal Service - I'm pretty sure Ben Gibbard is the epitome of indie,and making indie so cool.
5. Christina Aguilera - Ok, so I'm not a huge fan of all her songs, but she can sing! "Beautiful," has to be one of the top 100 most influential songs in our generation.
6. Coldplay - Chris Martin is entrancing.
7. Chris Daughtry - one of my favorite American Idol finalist, he's got rock.