Top 50 Most Famous British Singers [2023]

 

The United Kingdom has produced many artists and talented performers over the decades. Be it in music, acting, composing, theater or films, the artists who have come out of Great Britain are some of the best in the business.

 

In the music industry, from the early 50s and 60s, we saw many British actors who excelled in musicals with their acting and singing. As the era of musicals ended, we saw new styles in music emerge.

 

From pop and rock to hard rock and heavy metal, the tastes of listeners changed, but British singers continued to churn out hits. In the disco and dance era as well, we saw many prominent British bands.

 

If you are confused or if you cannot imagine any other British band apart from The Beatles or Pink Floyd, then ENTOIN is here with a list of top-notch singers and musicians that you didn't know were British.

 

The list includes all genres of music, so let us check it out without any delay.

 

 

50. Zayn Malik

 

 

Zayn Malik is an English singer and songwriter who rose to fame as a member of the boy band One Direction. Zayn participated in the X-Factor in 2010 as a solo contestant and was eliminated from the show.

 

However, he was brought back as a member of a five-piece boy band that went on to become One Direction, the biggest boyband in the world. He signed with the band in 2010, and they quickly became one of the world's most popular music groups.

 

He worked on five albums with the group before 2015. Malik left One Direction in 2015 to pursue a solo career, releasing his first album, Mind of Mine, in 2016.

 

He has since released two additional solo albums, Icarus Falls in 2018 and Nobody Is Listening in 2021. His music has been well-received by fans and critics alike, and he has won several awards for his work.

 

Malik was in an on-again, off-again relationship with model Gigi Hadid till 2021. He has also been recognized for his contributions to the fashion world.

 

 

49. Marianne Faithfull

 

 

Marianne Faithfull is an English singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the 1960s. Her music is a blend of folk, rock, and pop, and her style has been described as both introspective and dramatic.

 

Faithfull's early work was heavily influenced by the blues and the Beatles but she later developed a unique sound that drew on a range of musical styles. Marianne Faithfull is best known for her rendition of the Rolling Stones' song As Tears Go By and her album Broken English, which was released in 1979 and marked a departure from her earlier work.

 

Over the course of her career, Faithfull has released numerous albums and collaborated with many prominent musicians, including Nick Cave, Lou Reed, and Keith Richards. She continues to tour and record music and is widely regarded as an influential female artist.

 

 

48. Rick Astley

 

 

Rick Astley is a British singer, songwriter, and radio personality, best known for his 1987 hit single Never Gonna Give You Up. This debut song became a worldwide hit, reaching number one in 25 countries and launching Astley's career as a pop star.

 

Astley went on to release several successful albums, including Whenever You Need Somebody and Free. In the 2000s, Astley's music experienced a resurgence of popularity due in part to the Rickrolling meme, which involved tricking people into clicking on a link to Never Gonna Give You Up.

 

Despite the comedic nature of the meme, Astley embraced the phenomenon and used it as a platform to revitalize his music career. He continues to tour and perform, and his music remains popular among fans of all ages.

 

 

47. Boy George

 

 

Boy George is an English singer, songwriter, and DJ who rose to fame in the 1980s as the lead singer of the pop band Culture Club. He is best known for his androgynous look and flamboyant style as well as his soulful and emotive voice.

 

His music genre included blue-eyed soul, Rhythm and Blues, and reggae. Culture Club had several hit songs, including Do You Really Want to Hurt Me, Karma Chameleon, and I'll Tumble 4 Ya.

 

They are widely regarded as one of the most influential pop groups of the 1980s. In addition to his work with Culture Club, Boy George has also enjoyed a successful solo career, releasing several albums and collaborating with other musicians.

 

He has been recognized for his contributions to music and popular culture and a BBC poll voted him among the 100 Greatest Britons. Despite facing personal and legal challenges throughout his career, Boy George remains a beloved and enduring figure in the world of music.

 

 

46. Rita Ora

 

 

Rita Ora is a British-Kosovo singer, songwriter, and actress. She rose to fame in 2012 with the release of her debut single with DJ Fresh, Hot Right Now. It became a hit in the UK and established her as a rising star in the pop world.

 

Since then, Ora has released two successful studio albums, including Ora and Phoenix. She has collaborated with a number of other musicians, including DJ Fresh, Iggy Azalea, Liam Payne, Cardi B, etc.

 

In addition to her music career, Ora has also dabbled in acting, appearing in films such as the Fifty Shades franchise, Pokemon Detective Pikachu, etc. She has been recognized for her contributions to the music industry, winning several awards and receiving Grammy nominations.

 

Despite facing some setbacks and controversies in her career, Ora continues to be a popular and influential figure in the world of pop music.

 

 

45. Cat Stevens

 

 

Cat Stevens is a British singer-songwriter who is best known for his folk, rock, and pop music in the 1970s. His most famous songs include Wild World, Morning Has Broken, Peace Train, Father and Son, etc.

 

Stevens rose to fame in the late 1960s with the release of his album Matthew and Son and went on to release several successful albums throughout the 1970s, showcasing his talents as a singer and songwriter.

 

In 1977, Cat Stevens converted to Islam and began his spiritual journey, which led him to change his name to Yusuf Islam in 1978. He took a break from music and sold all his guitars for charity purposes.

 

Despite a hiatus from music in the 1980s and 1990s, Stevens returned to the music industry, releasing new albums and performing live. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential singer-songwriters, and a beloved and respected figure in the world of music.

 

 

44. Elvis Costello

 

 

Declan Patrick MacManus is famous for his stage name, Elvis Costello. He is an English singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the late 1970s as one of the leading figures of the New Wave movement.

 

Costello won multiple music awards, including the Grammy Award. He has also been nominated for two Brit Awards and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He is known for his intricate lyrics and musical eclecticism, blending elements of punk, pop, and folk music in his songs.

 

Costello's debut album, My Aim Is True, was released in 1977 and received critical acclaim, establishing him as a major force in the music industry. Over the course of his career, he has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including This Year's Model, Armed Forces, Get Happy!!, etc.

 

Costello has been recognized for his contributions to music, winning several awards and receiving numerous Grammy nominations. His music continues to be popular and highly regarded among fans and critics alike.

 

 

43. Stormzy

 

 

Stormzy, born as Michael Ebenezer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr., is a British grime rapper and singer who rose to fame in the early 2010s. He is widely regarded as one of the leading figures in the grime music genre and has been credited with helping to popularize the genre in the UK and beyond.

 

Stormzy's debut album, Gang Signs & Prayer, was released in 2017 and received critical acclaim, earning him numerous award nominations and establishing him as a major force in the music industry.

 

His top singles include Shut Up, Vossi Bop, Mel Made Me Do It, etc. He has since released several successful albums and mixtapes and has collaborated with a number of other musicians and artists, including Ed Sheeran and Headie One.

 

In addition to his music career, Stormzy is also known for his activism and social justice advocacy and has been recognized for his contributions to British culture and society. He continues to be a popular and influential figure in the world of music.

 

 

42. Peter Gabriel

 

 

Peter Gabriel is an English singer, songwriter, and musician who rose to fame in the 1970s as the original lead vocalist and flutist of the progressive rock band Genesis. He left the band in 1975 to pursue a solo career and has since released several critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums, including Peter Gabriel (also known as "Car"), So, and Up.

 

Gabriel is known for his eclectic and innovative approach to music, incorporating elements of world music, experimental rock, and electronica into his work. He is a promoter of World Music and co-founded the WOMAD festival in 1982.

 

He is also known for his humanitarian and political activism and participated in Amnesty International's Human Rights Now! Tour. Gabriel has been recognized for his contributions to music and popular culture, receiving several awards and Grammy nominations.

 

 

41. Roger Waters

 

 

Roger Waters is an English singer-songwriter and bassist who rose to fame as a co-founder and lead vocalist of the legendary rock band Pink Floyd. He wrote some of the band's most iconic songs, including The Wall and Wish You Were Here.

 

With Pink Floyd, he made concept albums like The Dark Side of the Moon, Animals, The Final Cut, etc. In 1985, he left Pink Floyd and started a successful solo career, releasing albums like The Pros and Cons of Hitch Hiking and Amused to Death.

 

He is also known for his politically charged lyrics and activism, often incorporating these themes into his music and live performances. Waters has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the UK Music Hall of Fame.

 

He is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of all time.

 

 

40. Van Morrison

 

 

Sir George Ivan Morrison shortened his name to Van Morrison. He is a Northern Irish singer-songwriter and musician known for his blues-influenced and soulful style. He started out playing instruments like guitar, harmonica, keyboards, and saxophone for other Irish bands.

 

Morrison first gained popularity as the lead singer of the band Them but he is best known for his successful solo career that spans over five decades. Some of his most notable works include the classic hit songs Brown Eyed Girl, Moondance, Wild Night, and Have I Told You Lately.

 

Morrison is considered a pioneer of the Celtic Soul and has been referred to as the King of Celtic Rock. He has been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame and has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including six Grammy Awards.

 

 

39. Robin Gibb

 

 

Robin Gibb was an English singer-songwriter and musician who was a co-founder and lead vocalist of the legendary pop group the Bee Gees. Along with his brothers Barry and Maurice, Robin formed the Bee Gees in the late 1950s and helped establish the group as one of the most successful pop groups of all time.

 

Robin's distinctive vibrato-laden voice and songwriting abilities were integral to the Bee Gees' sound. He co-wrote many of the group's biggest hits, including How Deep Is Your Love, Stayin' Alive, and Night Fever.

 

Gibb was also an instrumentalist who played keyboards, mellotron, piano, acoustic guitar, etc. His contribution to the Bee Gees' success helped establish the group as one of the top-selling music acts of all time, with over 220 million records sold worldwide.

 

Robin passed away in 2012, but his legacy continues to live on through the music of the Bee Gees.

 

 

38. Savage

 

 

21 Savage is a London-born American rapper and songwriter. At the age of seven, he and his mother moved to Atlanta, Georgia. He first gained popularity with the release of his debut single X and No Heart in 2015.

 

Both songs peaked at Top 40 in the Billboard Top 100, and since then has established himself as one of the most influential figures in modern hip hop. His music is known for its dark and often violent themes, as well as its intricate wordplay and raw, menacing delivery. 21 Savage's debut studio album, Issa Album, was released in 2017 and was well-received by both fans and critics, with several songs from the album becoming big hits.

 

He has since released two more successful albums, I Am > I Was and Savage Mode II.  21 Savage has collaborated with a number of other prominent artists in the rap industry, including Drake, Post Malone, and Cardi B. 21 Savage's unique style and powerful music has earned him a large and dedicated fanbase.

 

 

37. Liam Gallagher

 

 

Liam Gallagher is an English singer-songwriter and musician, best known as the former lead singer of the legendary rock band Oasis. He formed the band with his older brother Noel in 1991 and quickly rose to fame with their debut album, Definitely Maybe, which is widely considered one of the greatest albums of the 1990s.

 

Liam had invited his brother Noel as the manager. However, Noel insisted on being the creative controller of the music. During his time with Oasis, Liam was known for his distinctive voice and larger-than-life personality and he helped write many of the band's biggest hits, including Wonderwall, Live Forever, and Champagne Supernova.

 

After Oasis disbanded in 2009, Liam launched a successful solo career, releasing his debut album As You Were in 2017, which was a critical and commercial success. Throughout his career, Liam has been known for his brash personality, controversial statements, and unapologetic approach to rock and roll.

 

 

36. Seal

 

 

Seal Henry Olusegun Olumide Adeola Samuel is an English singer-songwriter and producer known for his soulful voice and unique style, which blends elements of soul, R&B, and pop. He first gained fame with the release of his self-titled debut album in 1991, which featured the hit single Crazy.

 

Throughout his career, Seal has released a number of successful albums and hit songs, including Kiss from a Rose, Fly Like an Eagle, and Waiting for You. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest vocalists of his generation.

 

He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including three Brit Awards and four Grammy Awards. In addition to his musical career, Seal is known for his activism and philanthropy, particularly in the areas of human rights and environmental causes.

 

He continues to be a respected and influential figure in the music industry today.

 

 

35. Sade

 

 

Sade, or Sade Abu, is a Nigerian-British singer, songwriter, and actress known for her smooth, soulful voice and sophisticated, jazz-influenced style. She first rose to fame as the lead singer of the eponymous band Sade in the early 1980s and quickly established herself as one of the most popular and influential vocalists of her time.

 

Over the course of her career, Sade has released six studio albums and numerous hit songs, including Smooth Operator, No Ordinary Love, and By Your Side. She is widely regarded as one of the greatest female vocalists of all time and her music continues to be popular and widely loved to this day.

 

Sade is known for her private and low-key personal life and she has been relatively inactive in recent years, only occasionally releasing new music or performing live. Nevertheless, she remains one of the most respected and beloved artists in the music industry.

 

 

34. Dido

 

 

Dido is a famous British-Irish singer-songwriter and actress who first gained popularity in the early 2000s with the release of her debut album, No Angel. The album was a critical and commercial success, selling over 21 million copies worldwide and establishing Dido as one of the biggest new artists of the time.

 

The album's lead single, Here with Me, was a hit, and several other songs from the album, including Thank You and Hunter, also received widespread radio play. The first verse of the song, Thank You, was sampled from the famous Eminem song, Stan.

 

Dido's soulful and introspective style, combined with her heartfelt lyrics, won her a large and dedicated following. She has since released several more successful albums, including Life for Rent, Safe Trip Home, and Still on My Mind.

 

Throughout her career, Dido has been known for her deeply personal songwriting, and she remains one of the most respected and influential artists in the music industry.

 

 

33. Leona Lewis

 

 

Leona Lewis is an English singer-songwriter, actress, and activist who rose to fame as the winner of the third season of the British television show The X Factor in 2006.

 

Lewis' powerful and soulful voice quickly won over audiences, and she quickly established herself as one of the UK's most successful new artists. Her debut single, A Moment Like This, was a cover of the Kelly Clarkson song and broke records as the fastest-selling UK single in history.

 

Her follow-up album, Spirit, was released in 2007 and was a commercial success, reaching number one in several countries and selling over 8 million copies worldwide. Throughout her career, Lewis has received numerous accolades, including several Grammy nominations and several BRIT Awards.

 

She has also established herself as a philanthropist, using her platform to support various causes, including animal rights and anti-bullying initiatives.

 

 

32. Kate Bush

 

 

Kate Bush is an English singer-songwriter, composer, and record producer known for her innovative and experimental approach to music. She first rose to prominence in the late 1970s with the release of her debut album, The Kick Inside, which featured the hit single Wuthering Heights.

 

Throughout her career, Bush has released a number of critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums, including Hounds of Love, The Sensual World, and 50 Words for Snow. She is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential female artists in the music industry and her music has been described as a fusion of various styles and genres, including rock, folk, and electronic music.

 

Some of her most famous works include Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God), Babooshka, and King of the Mountain. Despite her relatively low profile in recent years, Kate Bush remains one of the most respected and beloved artists in the music world.

 

 

31. Robbie Williams

 

 

Robbie Williams is an English singer-songwriter and entertainer who first rose to fame as a member of the boy band Take That in the 1990s. After leaving the group in 1995, Williams began a successful solo career, releasing several multi-platinum albums and becoming one of the best-selling music artists in the UK.

 

Throughout his career, Williams has been known for his charismatic and flamboyant stage presence, as well as his powerful voice and unique blend of pop, rock, and electronic music. Some of his most famous songs include Angels, Rock DJ, She’s The One, Millennium, and Feel.

 

Williams has won numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including 17 Brit Awards and several Ivor Novello Awards. In addition to his music career, he has also acted in a number of films and television shows and is known for his larger-than-life personality and sense of humor.

 

Despite a hiatus from the music industry in the late 2000s, Robbie Williams remains one of the most enduring musicians in the UK.

 

 

30. Brian May

 

 

Brian May is a British musician, singer, and songwriter best known as the lead guitarist of the legendary rock band Queen. Although he is not famous as a singer, He co-wrote many of the band's hit songs such as We Will Rock You, Bohemian Rhapsody, and Tie Your Mother Down.

 

In addition to his successful career with Queen, May has also released several solo albums and collaborated with other artists. He has also been a prominent advocate for animal rights and is involved in various charitable causes.

 

May has received numerous accolades for his contributions to music, including being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Queen in 2001. He continues to perform and tour with Queen + Adam Lambert.

 

With his technical guitar skills, powerful vocals, and exceptional songwriting ability, Brian May remains one of the greatest rock musicians of all time. May also famously earned a Ph.D. degree in astrophysics from Imperial College London in 2007.

 

 

29. Barry Gibb

 

 

Barry Gibb is a British musician, singer, and songwriter who rose to fame as a member of the Bee Gees, one of the most successful groups in pop music history.

 

Along with his brothers, Maurice and Robin, Barry formed the Bee Gees in the 1960s and quickly became known for their distinctive harmonies and a far-reaching falsetto voice. The group went on to write and perform numerous hits, including Stayin' Alive, How Deep is Your Love, and Night Fever, which became the soundtrack of the disco era.

 

In addition to his work with the Bee Gees, Gibb has also had a successful solo career, releasing several albums and collaborating with other musicians. Despite the loss of his brothers, Barry continues to perform and tour, keeping the music of the Bee Gees alive.

 

He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to music. As a songwriter, he shares the record for most consecutive Billboard Hot 100 number ones with John Lennon and Paul McCartney, each having six.

 

 

28. Eric Clapton

 

 

Eric Clapton is a British musician, singer, and songwriter known as one of the most influential guitarists in the history of rock music. He is listed as number two and four on the Greatest Guitarists Ever listing by Rolling Stones and Gibson, respectively.

 

He first rose to prominence as a member of the Yardbirds and then as a founding member of the blues rock band Cream. Clapton's virtuosic guitar playing and soulful vocals made him a star and earned him the nickname Slowhand.

 

In the 1970s, he launched a successful solo career, releasing numerous critically acclaimed albums and hit songs such as Wonderful Tonight, Layla, and Tears in Heaven. He has collaborated with a wide range of artists and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times, once as a member of the Yardbirds and twice as a solo artist.

 

Clapton has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to music. To this day, he continues to tour and perform, and his music remains as popular as ever.

 

 

27. David Gilmour

 

 

David Gilmour is a British guitarist, singer, and songwriter best known as the lead guitarist and one of the primary vocalists of the legendary rock band Pink Floyd. Gilmour's distinctive guitar playing, characterized by his signature use of slide guitar, echo effects, and intricate solos, has earned him widespread acclaim as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.

 

He has been praised for his ability to create lush, atmospheric soundscapes and for his contributions to the development of the progressive rock genre. In addition to his work with Pink Floyd, Gilmour has also released several critically acclaimed solo albums and has collaborated with a variety of other artists.

 

He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Pink Floyd and has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to music.

 

With his unique sound and innovative approach to guitar playing, David Gilmour remains one of the most respected and influential musicians of his generation.

 

 

26. Cliff Richard

 

 

Sir Cliff Richard is an English singer, songwriter, and actor who rose to prominence in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He is often referred to as the British Elvis due to his good looks and clean-cut image as well as his early rock and roll style.

 

Richard's early hits, such as Living Doll and We Don't Talk Anymore, established him as a major pop star in the UK and around the world. He also had a flourishing acting career with hits like The Young Ones, Summer Holiday, and Wonderful Life.

 

In addition to his pop music career, Richard has also recorded a number of Christian albums and has been a vocal advocate for his faith. He has had a long and successful career, with more than 130 albums released and numerous hit songs.

 

He has been knighted by the Queen for his services to charity and music and continues to tour and perform to this day. With his timeless voice and charming persona, Sir Cliff Richard is one of the most beloved and enduring British pop icons of the 20th century.

 

 

25. Chris Martin

 

 

Chris Martin is an English musician, singer, and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist and pianist of the popular rock band Coldplay. While studying at University College, friends Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland, Guy Berryman, and Will Champion formed the band Coldplay.

 

It quickly rose to prominence with the release of its hit album Parachutes in 2000, which included the hit single Yellow. Since then, Coldplay has become one of the biggest bands in the world, releasing multiple critically acclaimed albums and hit songs, including Viva La Vida, Fix You, The Scientist, etc.

 

In addition to his work with Coldplay, Martin has also collaborated with a variety of other artists. Martin has also been involved in various humanitarian and environmental causes. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his music and has been recognized as one of the most talented and influential musicians of his generation.

 

With his exceptional songwriting ability, Chris Martin continues to captivate audiences around the world.

 

 

24. Dua Lipa

 

 

Dua Lipa is an English-Albanian singer, songwriter, and model who rose to prominence in 2015 with the release of her self-titled debut album. Born in London to Kosovar-Albanian parents, Lipa began her music career at a young age, posting covers of songs on YouTube.

 

Her unique blend of pop, R&B, and electronic dance music quickly caught the attention of listeners and she signed with Warner Bros. Records in 2015. With the release of her debut album, Lipa quickly established herself as a rising star, with hit singles such as Be the One and Hotter Than Hell.

 

Her follow-up album, Future Nostalgia, released in 2020, was met with widespread critical acclaim and solidified her position as one of the leading pop artists of her generation. Lipa has received numerous awards and accolades, including several Grammy Awards, and continues to tour and perform, captivating audiences around the world with her powerful voice and confident stage presence.

 

 

23. Ellie Goulding

 

 

Ellie Goulding is an English singer, songwriter, and producer who rose to prominence in the late 2000s and early 2010s. She is best known for her unique blend of electronic dance music and pop, characterized by her distinctive voice and catchy, upbeat melodies.

 

Goulding first gained recognition with the release of her debut album, Lights, in 2010, which included the hit singles Starry Eyed and Guns and Horses. Since then, she has released multiple critically acclaimed albums and hit songs, including Love Me Like You Do, which was featured in the soundtrack of the film Fifty Shades of Grey.

 

Goulding has received numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to music, including several Grammy nominations, and has toured extensively, performing for audiences around the world. With her powerful voice and undeniable stage presence, Ellie Goulding has established herself as one of the leading pop artists of her generation.

 

 

22. Robert Plant

 

 

Robert Plant is an English singer, songwriter, and musician who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin. Plant's powerful, soulful voice and dynamic stage presence helped to establish Led Zeppelin as one of the biggest and most influential bands of the 1970s.

 

After the disbandment of Led Zeppelin in 1980, Plant continued to perform and record music with Jimmy Page, the former lead guitarist of Led Zeppelin. He has released multiple critically acclaimed solo albums and has collaborated with a variety of other artists, including Alison Krauss on the Grammy-winning album Raising Sand.

 

Plant has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Led Zeppelin and has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to music.

 

With his powerful voice, innovative approach to songwriting, and enduring influence on the rock genre, Robert Plant remains one of the most respected and influential musicians of his generation. He is considered the Greatest Metal/Rock Vocalist of All Time.

 

 

21. Harry Styles

 

 

Harry Styles is an English singer, songwriter, and actor who first rose to fame as a member of the boy band One Direction. One Direction was formed in 2010 as part of the UK television show The X Factor and quickly became one of the biggest pop groups in the world, releasing multiple hit albums and selling out arenas and stadiums around the world.

 

After the boy band went on hiatus in 2016, Styles launched a successful solo career, releasing his self-titled debut album in 2017. The album was met with critical acclaim and spawned the hit single, Sign of the Times.

 

Styles has since released two more albums, showcasing his versatility as a musician and his ability to blend elements of rock, pop, and soul in his songs. In addition to his music career, Styles has also acted in film and television, appearing in the film Dunkirk and hosting SNL.

 

With his magnetic stage presence and undeniable talent, Harry Styles has established himself as an exciting and influential artist.

 

 

20. Sting

 

 

Sting is a British singer, songwriter, and actor known for his work as the lead vocalist of the band The Police and as a solo artist. Born Gordon Sumner in 1951, he rose to fame in the late 1990s with his band The Police, with hits such as Roxanne, Every Breath You Take, and Message in a Bottle.

 

After the dissolution of The Police in 1984, Sting embarked on a successful solo career, releasing multiple critically acclaimed albums and earning several Grammy Awards. His music combined genres like rock, jazz, reggae, classical, new-age, and worldbeat to make successful hits.

 

He is known for his distinctive voice, poetic lyrics, and eclectic musical style, which blends rock, jazz, and world music. In addition to his music, Sting is also an activist, using his platform to raise awareness for environmental and humanitarian causes.

 

 

19. Rod Stewart

 

 

Sir Roderick David Stewart is a Scottish-English musician, singer, and songwriter who has had a successful career spanning over five decades. Born in 1945, he rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s as the lead vocalist of the band The Faces and later as a solo artist.

 

He started his career busking before he joined different groups as a musician and backing vocalist. He is known for his unique raspy voice and his ability to blend rock, folk, and soul music.

 

Some of his most famous songs include Maggie May, Do Ya Think I'm Sexy?, Forever Young, You Wear It Well, etc. In addition to his music, Stewart is also known for his flamboyant stage presence and his ability to entertain audiences with his charming personality.

 

Over the course of his career, he has sold over 120 million records and has received numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. Stewart continues to perform and tour, entertaining fans around the world with his music.

 

 

18. Joe Cocker

 

 

Joe Cocker was an English singer and songwriter who was active in the music industry from the 1960s to the 2010s. Born in 1944, he rose to fame in the late 1960s with his powerful, soulful voice and his ability to perform soul and blues-inspired covers of popular songs.

 

Some of his most famous renditions include With a Little Help from My Friends, You Are So Beautiful, The theme song of The Wonder Years, and Up Where We Belong.

 

Cocker's live performances were known for their high energy and distinctive, soulful voice, which earned him a huge following of fans around the world. He won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award in 1983 for his duet with Jennifer Warnes on the theme song for the movie An Officer and a Gentleman.

 

Cocker passed away in 2014, but his music continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.

 

 

17. Sam Smith

 

 

Sam Smith is a British singer and songwriter who rose to prominence in the music industry in the early 2010s. Born in 1992, Smith first gained recognition as a featured artist on the Disclosure song Latch.

 

Later, they became a solo artist with the release of their debut album In the Lonely Hour, in 2014. The album was a critical and commercial success, earning Smith multiple Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist and Best Pop Vocal Album.

 

Known for their soulful vocals and emotional lyrics, Smith has become a prominent figure in the pop and R&B music scenes. Their subsequent albums, The Thrill of It All and Love Goes, have continued to showcase their artistry and ability to write powerful introspective songs.

 

In addition to their music, Smith has also been an advocate for LGBTQ rights and has used their platform to raise awareness and support for important social and political issues.

 

 

16. Phil Collins

 

 

Phil Collins is a British singer, songwriter, and drummer who was a prominent figure in the music industry from the 1970s to the 2000s. Born in 1951, Collins first rose to fame as the drummer and later the lead vocalist for the progressive rock band Genesis.

 

With his powerful voice and distinctive drumming style, Collins became one of the most recognizable and influential musicians of his generation. In addition to his work with Genesis, Collins also had a successful solo career, with hit songs such as In the Air Tonight, Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now), and Another Day in Paradise.

 

Collins' music has been praised for its melodic and soulful style, which blends elements of rock, pop, and R&B. He has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

 

Collins' impact on the British music industry and popular music as a whole cannot be overstated, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world.

 

 

15. George Michael

 

 

George Michael was an English singer, songwriter, and record producer who was active in the music industry from the 1970s to the 2010s. Born in 1963, he rose to fame as a member of the pop duo Wham! in the 1980s, with hits such as Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go and Careless Whisper.

 

After the breakup of Wham!, Michael continued to have a successful solo career, with chart-topping albums such as Faith and Listen Without Prejudice. He was known for his soulful voice and ability to write catchy, pop-infused ballads and dance tracks.

 

Throughout his career, Michael won numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. He is remembered as one of the most influential and important figures in pop music history, and his music continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.

 

Despite his untimely passing in 2016, Michael's impact on the music industry and popular culture remains significant.

 

 

14. Ed Sheeran

 

 

Ed Sheeran is considered a great musician from Britain. He is a singer, songwriter, and producer who has had a successful and influential career in the music industry since the early 2010s.

 

He is known for his soulful voice and ability to write emotionally charged ballads and upbeat pop tracks. Ed Sheeran can also play multiple instruments. Sheeran released his debut album + and followed it up with x and ÷.

 

He has sold millions of records worldwide and has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards. Sheeran has also collaborated with many other well-known musicians and has had a significant impact on the pop and folk music scenes.

 

He is widely regarded as one of the most talented and successful musicians of his generation and continues to be a major force in the British and global music industries.

 

 

13. Olivia Newton-John

 

 

Dame Olivia Newton-John was a British-Australian singer, songwriter, and actress who had a successful and long-lasting career in the entertainment industry. Born in 1948, she rose to fame in the 1970s as a pop and country singer, with hit songs such as I Honestly Love You and Let Me Be There.

 

Newton-John later became a household name with her portrayal of Sandy in the film Grease and its accompanying soundtrack. Throughout her career, Newton-John has sold over 100 million records and has received numerous awards, including four Grammy Awards.

 

She has also been a committed philanthropist and environmentalist, supporting causes such as breast cancer research and sustainability. Newton-John remains a beloved and iconic figure in popular culture, and her music continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.

 

Despite her health challenges, she continued to perform and record music, showcasing her enduring talent and passion for her craft. Sadly, she passed away on the 8th of August 2022.

 

 

12. Ozzy Osbourne

 

 

John Michael ‘Ozzy’ Osbourne is an English singer and songwriter who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the heavy metal band Black Sabbath in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

 

He was one of the pioneers of heavy metal music, and his powerful and distinctive voice helped define the genre. Osbourne's work with Black Sabbath is widely regarded as some of the most influential and innovative in the history of rock music and the band remains one of the most highly respected and influential groups in the genre.

 

After leaving Black Sabbath in the late 1970s, Osbourne continued to have a successful solo career, with hit albums such as Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman. Throughout his career, he has sold over 100 million records and has received numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

 

He also received the Ivor Novello Award for Lifetime Achievement. Despite facing controversies and personal struggles, Osbourne remains one of the most iconic and recognizable figures in rock music and continues to be celebrated and revered by fans around the world.

 

 

11. Paul McCartney

 

 

Sir Paul McCartney is a British singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of all time. Born in 1942, he rose to fame as a member of the Beatles, one of the most successful and influential bands in the history of popular music.

 

He was the bassist, songwriter, and lead vocalist of the group. McCartney's work with the Beatles, both as a songwriter and performer, helped define the sound of the 1960s and remains some of the most beloved and iconic music in popular culture.

 

After the breakup of the Beatles, McCartney continued to have a successful career with his band Wings. He released hit collaborations like Ebony and Ivory with Stevie Wonders, Say, Say, Say with Michael Jackson, Coming Up, Pipes of Peace, etc.

 

McCartney has sold over 100 million records and has received numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, 18 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, etc.

 

He also actively promotes charities related to animal rights, seal hunting, land mines, music education, etc.

 

 

10. Ian Gillan

 

 

Ian Gillan is a British musician and singer best known as the lead vocalist of the legendary rock band Deep Purple. He joined the band in 1969 and quickly established himself as one of the most distinctive and powerful voices in rock music.

 

During his time with Deep Purple, Gillan wrote and performed on many of the band's most famous songs, including Smoke on the Water and Child in Time. He left the band in 1973 and dabbled with a solo career in Ian Gillan's Band before joining Black Sabbath for a year-long stint.

 

He has also been involved in various other musical projects like Andrew Lloyd Weber’s Jesus Christ Superstar. He returned to Deep Purple in 1984 and released more albums. Gillan's contribution to British music has been immense and is widely recognized as one of the greatest rock singers of all time.

 

He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and continues to tour and record music.

 

 

9. Mick Jagger

 

 

Sir Michael Philip ‘Mick’ Jagger is an English singer, songwriter, and performer who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the Rolling Stones, one of the most successful and iconic rock bands in history.

 

Jagger is known for his distinctive and powerful voice, energetic stage presence, and style. With the Rolling Stones, he has written and performed some of the most memorable and enduring songs in the history of rock and roll, including Satisfaction, Jumpin' Jack Flash, and Gimme Shelter.

 

In addition to his work with the band, Jagger has also had a successful solo career, with hit albums such as She's the Boss and Primitive Cool. Jagger has sold over 200 million records, received the honor of the genus Jaggermeryx naida, and the type species Aegroto Catellus jaggeri named after him.

 

He was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Jagger remains active as a performer and continues to tour and record with the Rolling Stones, demonstrating his enduring talent and commitment to the world of music. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest frontmen in rock and roll history.

 

 

8. Brian Johnson

 

 

Brian Johnson is an English singer and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band AC/DC. He joined the band in 1980, replacing original singer Bon Scott, and helped lead the band to new heights of commercial and critical success.

 

Johnson's powerful and distinctive voice and his energetic stage presence became defining characteristics of AC/DC's sound. Brian Johnson sang some of the band's biggest and most memorable hits, including Back in Black, You Shook Me All Night Long and Thunderstruck.

 

He was taken into the group as the former lead singer Bon Sccott was impressed with Johnson's voice when he performed with Geordi. Johnson, as a part of AC/DC, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

 

Despite facing health challenges and temporary departures from the band, he continues to perform and record with AC/DC, showcasing his enduring talent and passion for music. Johnson's role as a singer and performer has helped define the sound and style of one of the most successful and iconic rock bands of all time.

 

 

7. Annie Lennox

 

 

Annie Lennox is a Scottish singer, songwriter, and philanthropist who rose to fame as a member of the new wave duo Eurythmics in the 1980s. With her powerful and distinctive voice and her innovative and eclectic musical style, Lennox quickly became one of the most recognizable musicians of her generation.

 

During her time with the Eurythmics and as a solo artist, she has produced hit songs such as Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This), Here Comes the Rain Again, Walking on Broken Glass, Love Song for a Vampire, Why, etc.

 

In addition to her musical achievements, Lennox is also known for her activism and her work to raise awareness about social and humanitarian issues. She is listed by VHI among the 100 Greatest Women in Music.

 

She also won multiple Grammy awards, Golden Globe, and the Academy Award. She has received numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards, and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

 

Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Lennox remains a beloved and influential figure in the world of music.

 

 

6. Amy Winehouse

 

 

Amy Winehouse was an English singer and songwriter who rose to fame in the early 2000s with her distinctive voice, eclectic musical style, and bold and often controversial persona. Winehouse had a deep contralto voice that was very emotive and mesmerizing.

 

Born in 1983, Winehouse was a powerful and captivating performer known for her soulful and powerful voice and her ability to blend elements of jazz, soul, and R&B into her music.

 

Her second album, Back to Black, released in 2006, was a massive commercial and critical success, earning her five Grammy Awards and establishing her as one of the most important and influential musicians of her generation.

 

Despite her tremendous talent, Winehouse struggled with addiction and personal demons. She went in and out of rehab without getting the full treatment. Sadly, her life was cut short by a drug overdose in 2011.

 

Yet, Winehouse's music continues to inspire and influence musicians and fans around the world, and she remains one of the most celebrated and beloved musicians of her generation.

 

 

5. John Lennon

 

 

John Lennon was an English singer, songwriter, and musician who rose to fame as a member of the Beatles, one of the most successful and influential musical groups in the history of popular music.

 

Born in 1940, Lennon co-founded the Beatles in Liverpool in the early 1960s and helped usher in the "British Invasion" of American popular music. With his wit, humor, and innovative musical ideas, Lennon quickly became one of the most influential and celebrated musicians of his generation.

 

In addition to his musical contributions, Lennon was also known for his activism and outspoken stance on social and political issues, particularly his opposition to the Vietnam War. After the breakup of the Beatles, Lennon continued to make music as a solo artist, producing such classic albums as Imagine and Mind Games.

 

He was tragically murdered in 1980 by a deranged fan outside his New York Apartment. Lennon's importance in music cannot be overstated, and his contributions to the world of popular music will always be remembered and celebrated.

 

 

4. Freddie Mercury

 

 

Freddie Mercury was an English singer, songwriter, and musician who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the rock band Queen. Born Farrokh Bulsara in 1946, Mercury was known for his powerful and distinctive voice, flamboyant stage presence, and innovative and eclectic musical style.

 

With Queen, Mercury wrote and performed many of the band's biggest hits, including Bohemian Rhapsody, Somebody to Love, We Are the Champions, Don't Stop Me Now, Another One Bites the Dust, etc.

 

He was widely regarded as one of the greatest rock singers of all time, known for his incredible range, emotional power, and incredible showmanship. Mercury's contributions to the world of music were immense, and he remains one of the most beloved and celebrated musicians of all time.

 

Despite his untimely death in 1991 from AIDS-related complications, Mercury's legacy continues to inspire musicians. A BBC poll ranked him among the 100 Greatest Britons in 2002.

 

 

3. Elton John

 

 

Sir Elton John is an English singer, songwriter, and pianist known for his flamboyant stage presence and eclectic and innovative musical style. Born Reginald Kenneth Dwight in 1947, John first rose to fame in the early 1970s with his flamboyant costumes, elaborate stage shows, and catchy, melodic pop songs.

 

Elton John collaborated with lyricist Bernie Taupin to create many iconic songs. During his long and illustrious career, John has blended elements of rock, pop, classical, and even country music into his work, creating a distinctive and influential sound.

 

He is best known for his classic hits such as Rocket Man, Tiny Dancer, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me, Sacrifice, Can You Feel the Love Tonight, etc.

 

Apart from his musical achievements, John is also known for his activism and his support of various charitable causes. Despite his many successes and his lasting impact on the world of popular music, John continues to tour and perform around the world, delighting audiences with his incredible voice and timeless songs.

 

 

2. Adele

 

 

Adele Laurie Blue Adkins is an English singer, songwriter, and musician who rose to fame in the late 2000s with her powerful voice and soulful, emotional pop songs. Born in 1988, Adele first gained recognition with her debut album 19, which was released in 2008.

 

The album was a commercial and critical success, earning her multiple awards and accolades. It established her as one of the most exciting and talented new artists of her generation.

 

With her follow-up album 21, Adele reached even greater heights of success, with hits such as Someone Like You, Rolling in the Deep, and Set Fire to the Rain becoming worldwide chart-toppers.

 

Adele's music is characterized by its honesty, its raw emotion, and its powerful delivery. She has become one of the best-selling and most beloved artists of her time. Despite her meteoric rise to fame, Adele remains one of the most grounded and down-to-earth musicians.

 

She supports many charities that offer support to learning disabilities, Keeps a Child Alive, Red Nose Day, LGBTQ Rights, etc.

 

 

1. David Bowie

 

 

David Bowie was an English singer, songwriter, and actor who was one of the most influential and innovative musicians of the 20th century. Born David Robert Jones in 1947, Bowie rose to fame in the 1970s with a series of groundbreaking albums that blended rock, pop, soul, and avant-garde music into a singular, otherworldly sound.

 

Over the years, Bowie was known for his eclectic musical style, his flamboyant stage presence, and his ever-evolving image, which saw him embrace and discard a variety of personas from Ziggy Stardust to the Thin White Duke.

 

He was a visionary artist who pushed the boundaries of what was possible in music and helped to shape the sound and style of generations of musicians. Some of Bowie's most famous songs include Space Oddity, Heroes, Let's Dance, Life on Mars, Starman, Ashes to Ashes, Under Pressure, etc.

 

He also acted in many films, with roles such as Major Jack Celliers in Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence, Jareth the Goblin King in Labyrinth, Pontius Pilate in The Last Temptation of Christ, and Nikola Tesla in The Prestige.

 

Bowie's impact on the world of music was immense and remains one of the most beloved and celebrated musicians of all time, remembered for his incredible artistry, his bold vision, and his enduring influence on the world of popular music.