Singers Like Whitney Houston: Finding Contemporary Vocalists With Her Power, Range And Style
With her incredible vocal range and ability, Whitney Houston established herself as one of the most talented singers of a generation. Even years after her tragic death, Whitney’s iconic voice continues to inspire artists and fans alike. For those searching for that perfect combination of power, emotion and soul in a voice, Whitney set the gold standard. But a number of contemporary vocalists carry on her legacy today with their own spin.
If you’re short on time, here are a few quick recommendations for current singers like Whitney Houston: Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Jessie J, Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige, Ariana Grande, Brandy, Christina Aguilera and Adele.
In this comprehensive 3000 word guide, we will highlight and profile 10 singers from the pop, R&B and soul genres whose vocal styles bear similarities to Whitney Houston. We’ll examine their vocal capabilities, musical styles, career highlights and how they stack up to Whitney’s iconic voice. Whether you’re a die-hard Whitney fan hungry for more big soulful voices or just discovering her music, these contemporary artists are sure to impress.
How to Assess Vocal Similarities to Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston was undoubtedly one of the greatest vocalists of all time, known for her incredible power, range, and style. If you’re looking for contemporary singers who possess similar qualities to Whitney Houston, here are some key factors to consider.
Vocal Range and Power
One of the most distinctive aspects of Whitney Houston’s singing was her impressive vocal range and power. To assess vocal similarities to Whitney, listen for singers who can effortlessly hit both high and low notes with clarity and control.
Look for artists who have a strong and resonant voice, capable of delivering powerful performances that leave you in awe.
Use of Melisma and Vocal Runs
Whitney Houston was known for her masterful use of melisma and vocal runs, which added a unique flair to her performances. Melisma refers to the technique of singing multiple notes on a single syllable, while vocal runs involve rapid and intricate sequences of notes.
Pay attention to singers who can execute these embellishments with precision and artistry, showcasing a similar level of vocal dexterity.
Versatility Across Genres
Whitney Houston’s versatility as a vocalist allowed her to excel in various genres, including pop, R&B, gospel, and soul. To find contemporary singers with similar versatility, explore artists who are not bound by a single genre and can effortlessly transition between different styles.
Look for individuals who can captivate audiences with their ability to adapt their voice to different musical landscapes.
Live Performance Ability
Whitney Houston’s live performances were legendary, captivating audiences with her incredible vocal prowess and stage presence. When evaluating vocal similarities, consider the artists’ live performance ability.
Look for singers who can deliver electrifying performances, engaging the audience with their charisma, and leaving a lasting impact with their vocal skills.
Remember, finding a vocalist who can match Whitney Houston’s power, range, and style may be challenging, as she was truly one-of-a-kind. However, by considering factors such as vocal range and power, use of melisma and vocal runs, versatility across genres, and live performance ability, you can identify contemporary singers who possess similar qualities and evoke the same awe-inspiring emotions.
10 Singers Who Compare to Whitney Houston
Singer 1: Adele
Adele is a powerhouse vocalist known for her soulful and emotive performances. With her powerful voice and range, she has often been compared to Whitney Houston. Adele’s hits like “Rolling in the Deep” and “Someone Like You” showcase her ability to deliver heart-wrenching ballads with incredible vocal control.
Singer 2: Beyoncé
Beyoncé is known for her versatility and exceptional vocal range. Her performances are always filled with passion and energy, reminiscent of Whitney Houston’s stage presence. Songs like “Halo” and “Listen” demonstrate Beyoncé’s ability to hit high notes effortlessly while maintaining a strong and soulful tone.
Singer 3: Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey is often regarded as one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Her incredible vocal range and ability to hit high notes with precision make her a standout performer. Songs like “Hero” and “Vision of Love” showcase Mariah Carey’s powerful vocals, reminiscent of Whitney Houston’s iconic style.
Singer 4: Jennifer Hudson
Jennifer Hudson rose to fame after her powerful performance in the movie “Dreamgirls.” Her ability to deliver emotionally charged performances with incredible vocal control is reminiscent of Whitney Houston.
Songs like “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” highlight Jennifer Hudson’s powerful and soulful voice.
Singer 5: Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera is known for her powerful vocals and impressive range. Her ability to hit high notes with ease and her soulful performances draw comparisons to Whitney Houston. Songs like “Beautiful” and “Fighter” showcase Christina Aguilera’s vocal prowess.
Singer 6: Jessie J
Jessie J is a British singer known for her powerful voice and incredible vocal range. Her ability to belt out high notes and deliver soulful performances makes her comparable to Whitney Houston. Songs like “Flashlight” and “Price Tag” highlight Jessie J’s vocal abilities.
Singer 7: Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson is a versatile vocalist known for her powerful voice and emotional performances. She has often been compared to Whitney Houston due to her ability to deliver heartfelt ballads and hit high notes effortlessly.
Songs like “Because of You” and “Stronger” showcase Kelly Clarkson’s vocal prowess.
Singer 8: Leona Lewis
Leona Lewis gained fame after winning the third season of “The X Factor” in the UK. Her powerful and soulful voice draws comparisons to Whitney Houston. Songs like “Bleeding Love” and “Run” highlight Leona Lewis’s vocal talent and emotional delivery.
Singer 9: Jazmine Sullivan
Jazmine Sullivan is known for her powerful and soulful vocals. Her ability to deliver emotionally charged performances and hit high notes with ease draws comparisons to Whitney Houston. Songs like “Bust Your Windows” and “Need U Bad” showcase Jazmine Sullivan’s vocal range.
Singer 10: Sam Smith
Sam Smith is known for their soulful voice and emotional performances. The ability to convey deep emotions through their vocals draws comparisons to Whitney Houston. Songs like “Stay with Me” and “I’m Not the Only One” highlight Sam Smith’s vocal abilities.
In-Depth Profiles of Singers Like Whitney
Singer 1 Profile
Singer 1 is a contemporary vocalist who shares many similarities with the legendary Whitney Houston. With a vocal power that can mesmerize audiences, Singer 1 possesses a wide range and a unique style that captivates listeners.
Known for their ability to hit high notes effortlessly, Singer 1 has become a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
Singer 2 Profile
Singer 2 is another artist who can be compared to Whitney Houston in terms of vocal prowess. Their voice exudes power and emotion, leaving audiences in awe with every performance. Singer 2’s range and control are truly remarkable, allowing them to effortlessly navigate through different genres and styles.
Their ability to connect with the audience through their music is reminiscent of Whitney’s stage presence.
Singer 3 Profile
Singer 3, like Whitney Houston, possesses a voice that is both powerful and versatile. With a range that spans multiple octaves, Singer 3 can effortlessly hit high notes and deliver soulful ballads with ease.
Their ability to convey emotions through their vocals is reminiscent of Whitney’s iconic performances.
Singer 4 Profile
Singer 4 is a rising star in the music industry, known for their powerhouse vocals. With a voice that commands attention, Singer 4’s performances are filled with energy and passion. Their ability to deliver powerful ballads and soulful melodies sets them apart, making them a worthy comparison to the incomparable Whitney Houston.
Singer 5 Profile
Singer 5 is an artist who possesses a voice that rivals Whitney Houston’s in terms of power and range. Their ability to hit high notes effortlessly and deliver emotionally charged performances is truly remarkable.
Singer 5’s vocal control and technique are reminiscent of Whitney’s, making them a standout talent in the industry.
Singer 6 Profile
Singer 6 is an artist with a voice that is reminiscent of Whitney Houston’s in terms of power and style. Their ability to belt out notes with ease and captivate audiences with their soulful performances is truly remarkable.
Singer 6’s vocal range and control make them a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
Singer 7 Profile
Singer 7 is an up-and-coming vocalist who possesses a voice that is reminiscent of Whitney Houston’s. With a powerful and emotive voice, Singer 7 has the ability to connect with audiences on a deep level. Their performances are filled with raw emotion and a vocal range that leaves listeners in awe.
Singer 8 Profile
Singer 8 is an artist with a voice that is reminiscent of the legendary Whitney Houston. With a powerful and soulful voice, Singer 8 has the ability to deliver breathtaking performances. Their vocal range and control are truly remarkable, allowing them to effortlessly hit high notes and deliver emotional ballads.
Singer 9 Profile
Singer 9 is an extraordinary vocalist who possesses a voice that is comparable to Whitney Houston’s. Their ability to hit high notes effortlessly and deliver emotionally charged performances sets them apart.
Singer 9’s vocal range and control are truly impressive, making them a standout talent in the music industry.
Singer 10 Profile
Singer 10 is an artist with a voice that rivals Whitney Houston’s in terms of power and range. With a vocal ability that can captivate audiences, Singer 10 has the ability to deliver soulful performances that leave a lasting impression.
Their vocal control and emotional depth make them a worthy comparison to the iconic Whitney Houston.
Honorable Mentions
Jennifer Hudson
One vocalist who has been widely recognized for her powerful voice and incredible range is Jennifer Hudson. With her soulful and emotive performances, Hudson has captivated audiences around the world. She gained fame as a finalist on the third season of American Idol and went on to win an Academy Award for her role in the movie Dreamgirls.
Known for her ability to hit high notes with ease and deliver heartfelt performances, Hudson is undoubtedly a singer who can evoke the same emotions as Whitney Houston.
Jessie J
Jessie J is another contemporary vocalist who has been compared to Whitney Houston for her vocal prowess. With her strong and versatile voice, she has the ability to tackle a wide range of genres, from pop to soul.
Jessie J rose to international fame with her hit singles like “Price Tag” and “Bang Bang,” showcasing her powerful vocals and impressive range. Her dynamic performances and undeniable talent make her a worthy mention in any discussion about vocalists who possess the power and style of Whitney Houston.
Leona Lewis
Leona Lewis burst onto the music scene after winning the third season of The X Factor UK. Her debut single, “Bleeding Love,” became a global hit and showcased her incredible vocal abilities. Lewis is known for her soaring high notes and emotional delivery, reminiscent of Whitney Houston.
Her impressive vocal range and ability to convey raw emotions through her singing have earned her a place among the contemporary vocalists who embody the power, range, and style of the late legend.
Ledisi
Ledisi is an American singer-songwriter who has been acclaimed for her soulful and powerful voice. She has been recognized with multiple Grammy nominations for her albums, showcasing her vocal range and versatility.
Ledisi’s ability to effortlessly move between different musical genres, such as R&B, jazz, and gospel, is reminiscent of Whitney Houston’s ability to captivate audiences with her diverse repertoire. Ledisi’s talent and vocal prowess make her a standout artist who can be compared to the legendary Whitney Houston.
Lalah Hathaway
Lalah Hathaway is a contemporary vocalist who has often been praised for her smooth and soulful voice. She comes from a legendary musical family, with her father being the renowned singer Donny Hathaway.
Lalah has carved her own path in the music industry with her unique style and incredible vocal abilities. With her impressive range and ability to effortlessly transition between different vocal techniques, Hathaway has often been compared to Whitney Houston for her ability to captivate audiences with her powerful performances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Whitney Houston’s once-in-a-generation voice remains impossible to replicate fully, contemporary singers like Mariah Carey, Beyoncé and Adele carry on her legacy through their technical mastery, range, soul and command of live audiences. They put their own spin on Whitney’s style – some emphasizing big belts while others focus more on smooth runs. But all demonstrate great respect for Whitney while developing their unique voices.
There’s no doubt Whitney Houston left shoes too big for one singer to fill. But by elevating the bench mark for vocal excellence and pushing the limits of emotional expression in song, she continues to inspire the current generation of artists. Whitney’s influence can be felt in many of today’s pop and R&B singers, even years after her passing. Their shared combinations of power, control, tone and heart help keep Whitney’s spirit alive in music today.
