Top 26 Most Popular Blind Singers of All Time

Stevie Wonder, born Stevland Hardaway Morris, is a legendary American singer-songwriter celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to genres like rhythm and blues, pop, soul, gospel, funk, and jazz.

Blind since early childhood, Wonder signed with Motown's Tamla label at just 11 years old, quickly rising to fame as Little Stevie Wonder. In the 1970s, he enjoyed remarkable success with albums such as "Music of My Mind," "Talking Book," and "Songs in the Key of Life," the latter earning Grammy Awards for Album of the Year.

Wonder's innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instruments fundamentally changed the sound and direction of R&B music. Throughout his illustrious career, he has sold over 100 million records, amassed 25 Grammy Awards—the most ever by a solo artist—and been honored by multiple music halls of fame.

Beyond his music, Stevie Wonder is known for his activism and humanitarian work, notably campaigning for Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday to be recognized as a federal holiday.

Ray Charles Robinson, better known as Ray Charles, was an extraordinary American singer, songwriter, pianist, and saxophonist. Losing his sight in childhood, Charles rose to legendary status and is often affectionately called "The Genius" and "Brother Ray." He revolutionized music in the 1950s by blending blues, jazz, rhythm and blues, and gospel, pioneering the soul music genre with groundbreaking recordings for Atlantic Records.

In the 1960s, Charles continued to innovate by fusing country music, pop, and R&B, breaking musical barriers and achieving mainstream crossover success through ABC Records. His enduring talent produced hits such as "Georgia On My Mind," which topped charts and captivated audiences worldwide.

Throughout his remarkable career, Charles earned a multitude of accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, Kennedy Center Honors, an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and recognition among the greatest artists and vocalists of all time.

The biographical film "Ray" brought his inspiring story to the big screen, with Jamie Foxx earning an Academy Award for his outstanding portrayal of Charles.

Ronnie Lee Milsap is a highly influential American country music singer and pianist, renowned for his crossover appeal during the 1970s and 1980s. Despite being almost completely blind from birth, Milsap found remarkable success in both the country and pop music scenes.

His signature hits blend elements of pop, R&B, and rock and roll, underscoring his versatility as a performer. Best known for songs like "It Was Almost Like a Song," "Smoky Mountain Rain," and "(There's) No Gettin' Over Me," Milsap has earned six Grammy Awards and achieved 35 number-one country singles, securing his legacy as a music icon.

Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2014, Milsap’s inspiring journey began in poverty in North Carolina. Fueled by his passion for music, he overcame significant obstacles to become one of the most celebrated artists in the industry.

José Feliciano is a renowned Puerto Rican musician, singer, and composer known for his innovative blend of Latin, blues, jazz, soul, and rock music. Born blind due to congenital glaucoma, Feliciano demonstrated an extraordinary musical talent early in life, learning to play the accordion at age seven and mastering the guitar by nine.

During the 1960s, he captured the attention of audiences in the United States, with his album "Feliciano!" climbing to number 2 on the charts. Over his prolific career, Feliciano has released more than fifty albums in both English and Spanish, showcasing his versatility.

Feliciano helped revolutionize bolero music and produced enduring hits such as "Poquita Fe" and "Usted." His joyful rendition of "Feliz Navidad" remains a global holiday favorite and has become a Christmas classic. Throughout his career, he has received numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and special recognitions for his contributions to music.

In addition to his musical achievements, Feliciano has appeared in television and film, and collaborated with legendary artists including Bill Withers, John Lennon, and Paul Simon.

Andrea Bocelli is a renowned Italian tenor celebrated for his extraordinary career and accomplishments. Born with congenital glaucoma, Bocelli lost his sight completely at age 12 after a football accident caused a brain hemorrhage.

He began his professional journey performing in piano bars and rose to prominence after winning the newcomer’s section of the Sanremo Music Festival in 1994, which led to his first recording contract with Sugar Music. Since then, Bocelli has released 15 solo studio albums, selling over 75 million records globally.

Bocelli is famous for his crossover appeal, seamlessly blending classical and pop influences. His album "Romanza" is among the best-selling recordings of all time. He has held the top three positions on the US Classical Albums charts simultaneously, received the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

While he has faced some criticism from classical music purists, Bocelli’s voice has been praised as among the world’s most beautiful, with admirers such as Celine Dion and David Foster expressing high regard for his talent.

Diane Schuur, affectionately known as "Deedles," is a celebrated American jazz singer and pianist whose illustrious career spans several decades. Over the years, she has released 23 albums, each highlighting her remarkable musical versatility.

Blending jazz, Latin, gospel, pop, and country influences, Schuur crafts a unique and captivating sound. Her standout album, "Diane Schuur & the Count Basie Orchestra," dominated the Billboard Jazz Charts for an extraordinary 33 weeks.

Schuur's outstanding talent earned her Grammy Awards for Best Female Jazz Vocal Performance in 1986 and 1987, along with three additional Grammy nominations. She has graced esteemed stages such as Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, and the White House, and has collaborated with music legends like Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, Quincy Jones, and Stevie Wonder.

Blind since birth, Schuur is acclaimed for her perfect pitch and instantly recognizable vocal tone. In 2000, she received the Helen Keller Achievement Award from the American Foundation for the Blind in honor of her significant contributions to music.

Schuur's pioneering spirit and her fearless exploration of diverse musical genres have firmly established her as one of jazz music's most influential and enduring figures.

Arthur Tatum Jr., better known as Art Tatum, was an extraordinary American jazz pianist widely regarded as one of the greatest in history. His phenomenal technical mastery redefined the possibilities of jazz piano, as he pioneered innovations in reharmonization, voicing, and bitonality.

Tatum's professional journey began in his hometown of Toledo, Ohio, where he amazed audiences as a teenager, hosting his own radio show and performing live. He later earned acclaim as a solo pianist at prestigious venues in major cities such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

Known for his captivating improvisations in late-night sessions, Tatum often inspired fellow musicians—sometimes while enjoying generous servings of alcohol. In the 1940s, he briefly formed a successful trio and participated in numerous jazz concerts produced by Norman Granz.

Though his popularity waned toward the decade’s end as bebop rose to prominence, Tatum remained true to his unique style, continuing to record prolifically throughout the 1950s before his passing at age 47.

Despite severe visual impairment and eventual blindness, Tatum achieved extraordinary musical accomplishments and loved challenging friends in card games and billiards. Classics such as "Tea for Two" and "Wee Baby Blues" exemplify the lasting brilliance that earned him legendary status in the world of jazz.

Terri Gibbs is an acclaimed American country music artist whose career flourished in the 1980s. Despite being blind since birth, she released eleven studio albums between 1980 and 2017. Her debut single, "Somebody's Knockin'," was a breakthrough hit, climbing to No. 8 on the country charts, No. 13 on the pop charts, and reaching No. 3 on the Adult Contemporary charts.

Gibbs continued her success with numerous country hits, such as "Rich Man," "Mis'ry River," "Ashes to Ashes," and "Anybody Else's Heart but Mine." Her outstanding talent earned her prestigious awards including the Academy of Country Music's Top New Female Vocalist and the Country Music Association's Horizon Award.

Expanding her repertoire, Gibbs ventured into Contemporary Christian music, where she was nominated for a Grammy for her album "Turn Around." Throughout her career, she demonstrated remarkable vocal ability and resilience, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.

Jeff Healey was a celebrated Canadian musician renowned for his mastery in blues, rock, and jazz. Losing his sight at a young age did not hinder his extraordinary talent as a guitarist, singer, and songwriter.

During the 1980s and 1990s, Healey rose to fame with hits like "Angel Eyes," "I Think I Love You Too Much," and "How Long Can a Man Be Strong." He led the Jeff Healey Band, capturing audiences with electrifying live shows and the acclaimed album "See the Light." His innovative style of playing the guitar flat on his lap set him apart from his peers.

Healey also made a notable appearance in the film "Road House" and recorded alongside legends such as George Harrison and Eric Clapton. His career spanned international tours, club ownership, and actively supporting upcoming musicians.

Though he passed away in 2008, Healey's musical influence endures. His album "Mess of Blues" was released after his death and received widespread critical praise.

Clarence Carter is a celebrated American singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer, renowned for his soulful sound. Born blind in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1936, he studied at the Alabama School for the Blind before earning a music degree from Alabama State University.

He began his career as part of a duo with Calvin Scott. After Scott's accident, Carter embarked on a solo journey, signing first with the Fame label and later joining Atlantic Records in 1967. He found success with chart-topping hits such as "Slip Away" and "Too Weak To Fight." His 1970 rendition of "Patches" became his hallmark, earning him a Grammy Award.

Though Carter's career experienced fluctuations, he continued recording and performing, gaining fresh recognition in the 1980s and 1990s with songs like "Strokin'." Today, he remains active in the music industry, consistently releasing new material and touring for audiences worldwide.

Louis Thomas Hardin, better known as Moondog, was a visionary American composer, musician, poet, and inventor. Despite losing his sight at just 16 years old, he overcame adversity to become a celebrated and pioneering figure in the world of music.

Moondog’s compositions were known for their eclectic style, seamlessly blending elements from jazz, classical, Native American, and Latin American traditions. His rhythmic and contrapuntal approach greatly influenced later minimal music composers such as Steve Reich and Philip Glass.

Gaining fame as "the Viking of Sixth Avenue," Moondog captivated audiences while busking and performing poetry along New York City’s streets. His music explored diverse genres, including bebop, swing, rumba, modernism, and Renaissance music, showcasing his wide-ranging talents.

In addition to incorporating the sounds of the city into his work, Moondog invented unique instruments like the Trimba. His innovative musical techniques and charismatic persona continue to leave a lasting legacy in the music industry.

Blind Blake, whose real name was Arthur Blake, was a renowned American blues and ragtime singer and guitarist. He is best remembered for the classic recordings he created for Paramount Records from 1926 to 1932.

Born in 1896, Blake lost his sight at an early age. Despite this challenge, he taught himself to play guitar and developed a strong singing voice. His music career began with performances on the streets and in clubs, eventually leading him to Chicago, where a Paramount Records talent scout discovered him.

Blake went on to record more than 80 tracks for Paramount, quickly becoming one of the most celebrated blues artists of his era. His distinct style blended blues, ragtime, and jazz, and he gained fame for his intricate guitar work and expressive vocals.

Some of his best-known songs include "Early Morning Blues," "Blind Blake's Rag," and "Yodeling Blues." Many artists, such as Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, and Bob Dylan, have covered his influential music.

Mohanan Chandrasekaran, a distinguished Carnatic classical violinist from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, has enjoyed an illustrious music career. Born in Calcutta in 1937, he began learning the violin at the age of 11. Over the years, he has accompanied many legendary musicians in the world of Carnatic music.

Although Chandrasekaran lost his eyesight at a young age, he triumphed over this obstacle through his unwavering dedication to music. He is celebrated for his mastery of laya (tempo) and his exceptional ability to navigate complex rhythmic patterns. His performances reflect a deep emotional and melodic sensitivity.

Chandrasekaran appears in both solo violin recitals and vocal concerts, and has composed music in several languages. He often performs violin duets with his daughter, G. Bharathi. In recognition of his significant contributions, he received many honors, including the prestigious Sangeetha Kalanidhi Award from the Madras Music Academy in 2005.

Albert George Hibbler, better known as Al Hibbler, was an acclaimed American baritone vocalist who rose to fame after singing with Duke Ellington's legendary orchestra. Born blind in Tyro, Mississippi, Hibbler later moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, where he attended the Arkansas School for the Blind and sang in the school choir.

In 1942, Hibbler joined Jay McShann's band, and the following year, he became a featured member of Ellington's orchestra. His expressive interpretations of popular songs earned him widespread recognition. After departing from Ellington's band in 1951, Hibbler enjoyed a thriving solo career, recording with acclaimed labels like Mercury and Decca Records.

His most significant success came with the hit song "Unchained Melody," which climbed to #3 on the US pop chart and sold over a million copies. He also found success with other memorable tracks, including "He," "11th Hour Melody," and "After the Lights Go Down Low."

Gilbert Montagné is a celebrated French singer, musician, pianist, and organist who overcame blindness from an early age to achieve international musical acclaim. His 1971 hit, "The Fool," topped charts across Europe and South America, and he later found continued success with beloved songs like "On va s'aimer" (1983) and "Les Sunlights des tropiques" (1984).

In France, Montagné remains a prominent artist known for collaborations with iconic musicians such as Johnny Hallyday and Kool & the Gang. His influence has been recognized with prestigious honors, including the titles Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters, Officer in the National Order of Merit, and Officer in the Order of the Legion of Honour.

Beyond his musical career, Montagné is active in politics and a passionate advocate for the rights of the blind. He has released acclaimed albums like "LIBERTÉ" and "RIEN QU'UNE AMITIÉ," and performed at renowned venues worldwide, including the legendary Paris Olympia.

Blind Lemon Jefferson, born Lemon Henry Jefferson, was a celebrated American blues and gospel singer-songwriter and musician. Rising to prominence in the 1920s, he earned the title "Father of the Texas Blues" and stood out as one of the most popular blues artists of his era.

Known for his clear, high-pitched voice and distinctive guitar technique, Jefferson captivated audiences with his unique sound. While his recordings enjoyed commercial success, his direct influence on his younger contemporaries at the time was somewhat limited.

Nonetheless, Jefferson's legacy grew as later generations of blues and rock musicians drew inspiration from his music, striving to replicate his inventive style and signature songs. Born blind in Texas, he overcame numerous challenges to achieve recognition as a pioneering solo guitarist and vocalist in the recording industry.

His classics, like "Long Lonesome Blues" and "See That My Grave Is Kept Clean," highlight his musical genius and storytelling ability, securing his place as a trailblazer in the world of blues music.

Raul Midón is a celebrated American singer-songwriter and guitarist, renowned for his remarkable contributions to the music industry. Both he and his twin brother lost their sight as infants due to insufficient eye protection while in an incubator.

Midón's musical journey began at the age of four when his father introduced him to the drums. He later developed his guitar skills while attending a school for the blind, which paved the way for his dynamic career. His professional path started as a session singer for various Latin recording artists.

He also collaborated with producer and DJ Little Louie Vega, releasing tracks under the band name Elements of Life. Midón's remarkable talent caught the eye of legendary producer Arif Mardin, who went on to produce Midón's debut album, "State of Mind," in 2005.

Over the years, Midón has worked alongside renowned musicians such as Stevie Wonder, Jason Mraz, and Herbie Hancock. Among his acclaimed albums are "A World Within a World" (2007), "Synthesis" (2009), and "Don't Hesitate" (2014).

His extensive body of work includes music featured in films, as well as Grammy nominations for his albums "Bad Ass and Blind" (2017) and "If You Really Want" (2018), the latter created in collaboration with the Metropole Orkest.

Blind Willie Johnson was a pioneering American gospel blues singer, guitarist, and evangelist whose work left a lasting mark on music history. Between 1927 and 1930, his passionate vocals, masterful slide guitar playing, and unique musical approach deeply influenced countless musicians across generations.

Though he achieved limited financial success during his lifetime, Johnson’s music experienced a revival in the 1960s, especially after being featured in Harry Smith's Anthology of American Folk Music and championed by Reverend Gary Davis.

Celebrated as a leading figure in "holy blues," Johnson’s recordings became widely available through various compilation albums. His haunting slide guitar performance on the hymn "Dark Was the Night, Cold Was the Ground" is considered one of his greatest achievements.

Some of his most notable songs include "Jesus Make Up My Dying Bed," "It's Nobody's Fault but Mine," and "John the Revelator." Despite the limited documentation of his life and his cessation of recordings after 1930, Johnson’s influence has only continued to grow over time.

Today, Blind Willie Johnson is celebrated as one of the most influential and revered practitioners in the history of blues music.

Doc Watson was a revered American guitarist, songwriter, and singer celebrated for his command of genres such as bluegrass, folk, country, blues, and gospel. His immense talent earned him seven Grammy Awards, as well as a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his lasting impact.

Though blind from a young age, Watson dazzled audiences both as a solo performer and alongside his son, Merle Watson, for more than 15 years. He was deeply influenced by country roots artists like the Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers, drawing on their sounds to shape his own style.

Watson's career flourished after he switched to acoustic guitar and banjo, making his first recording in 1960. He gained widespread attention following his appearance at the Newport Folk Festival in 1963. His vibrant and intricate bluegrass lead guitar technique inspired generations of musicians, including Clarence White and Tony Rice.

In addition to his guitar prowess, Watson was an accomplished banjo player and possessed a rich baritone voice, securing his reputation as a key figure in the folk music revival.

Rod Clemmons, who was born blind in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, discovered his love for music at an early age. Surrounded by a musically talented family, he began taking piano lessons from a university faculty member, nurturing his innate gift.

He continued his education at the Arkansas School for the Blind and then attended the prestigious Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. There, he connected with keyboardist Isiah Sanders, known for playing with Stevie Wonder, and benefited from his mentorship.

Graduating with honors, Clemmons launched his career in Louisville, Kentucky, where he worked as a singer, songwriter, keyboardist, and producer. His single "Trust My Love" gained significant airplay on local R&B radio stations, establishing him as a rising talent.

After relocating to New York City, Clemmons became a respected session musician, vocal coach, and background singer. He founded Verdict Records, his independent label and production company, producing music across multiple genres.

Inspired by encouragement from his mother, Clemmons released his debut R&B album, "What's Up? It's Me," in September 2011, further cementing his place in the music industry.

Marcus Roberts is an accomplished American jazz pianist, composer, arranger, bandleader, and teacher. Despite being blind since the age of five, Roberts displayed an extraordinary talent for playing the piano from a young age.

In the 1980s, he joined Wynton Marsalis's band, showcasing his traditional jazz style influenced by ragtime and stride piano. He has released albums covering the works of jazz legends like Scott Joplin, Duke Ellington, Jelly Roll Morton, and Fats Waller.

Roberts has also ventured into classical music, composing his first piano concerto commissioned by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Savannah Music Festival. He founded The Modern Jazz Generation, a band consisting of musicians spanning different generations.

Roberts has been recognized for his contributions to music and society, receiving an honorary doctorate from Brigham Young University. He has served as an associate artistic director and faculty member at various institutions, including the Savannah Music Festival and Florida State University.

Sonny Terry was an influential American blues and folk musician known for his vibrant harmonica playing style. Born in Greensboro, Georgia, Terry learned to play the blues harp from his father and developed a unique approach that incorporated vocalisations and imitations of various sounds.

Despite losing his sight at a young age, Terry pursued a music career and formed a successful partnership with Brownie McGhee. Together, they recorded numerous songs and gained popularity during the folk music revival of the 1950s and 1960s.

Terry's notable achievements include performing at Carnegie Hall in 1938 and recording for the Library of Congress. He also appeared in Broadway musicals and films like "Finian's Rainbow," "The Jerk," and "The Color Purple." Terry received the National Heritage Fellowship and was posthumously inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1986.

Virginia Leigh Owens, also known as Ginny Owens, is an American singer, songwriter, author, and speaker. Despite being blind since the age of three, Owens has made significant contributions to the music industry.

She gained recognition for her Contemporary Christian music and had several albums chart on the Billboard charts in the 2000s. Owens began her career by writing songs for Michael Puryear's Final Four Publishing and eventually signed with Rocketown Records.

Her music has been featured on popular TV shows, and she has received three Dove awards, including New Artist of the Year. Owens is also known for her philanthropic work, founding the Fingerprint Initiative and collaborating with organisations like Compassion International and Habitat for Humanity.

She has released books, including "Transcending Mysteries: Who Is God and What Does He Want From Us?" and "Singing in the Dark," and has served as an adjunct professor at Belmont University.

Owens continues to inspire others with her talent and uplifting message.

Nobuyuki Tsujii, a Japanese pianist and composer, has achieved remarkable success despite being blind due to microphthalmia. He has gained recognition for his extensive performances with various conductors and orchestras, receiving critical acclaim for his unique approach to learning and performing music without sight.

Tsujii made a significant impact in the 2009 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, where he tied for the gold medal and received the Beverley Taylor Smith Award for the best performance of new work.

As a composer, he began showcasing his talents at a young age and has released multiple albums featuring his own compositions. Tsujii's accomplishments include debuting at Carnegie Hall in 2011 and performing at the BBC Proms in 2013.

His life has been documented in films such as "A Surprise in Texas" and "Touching the Sound." Tsujii's excellence in music was further recognized when he won the 1st Prize at the InterArtia 2015 international competition.

Blind Willie McTell (real name William Samuel McTier) was an American Piedmont blues and ragtime singer and guitarist. He was born in Thomson, Georgia, in 1898, and lost his sight at a young age. He learned to play the guitar and sing at a young age as well, and began his career playing on the streets and in clubs.

McTell was known for his fluid, syncopated fingerstyle guitar technique and his smooth, expressive vocals. He was also a gifted songwriter, and many of his songs have become classics of the blues genre. Some of his most popular songs include "Statesboro Blues," "Broke Down Engine Blues," and "No More Auction Block."

McTell recorded over 120 songs for various record labels in the 1920s and 1930s. In the 1940s and 1950s, McTell's career began to decline. He struggled with alcoholism and health problems, and he was no longer able to record or tour as frequently as he had in the past. He is considered to be one of the greatest blues musicians of all time, and his music continues to be enjoyed and studied by musicians and fans alike.