A Ranking of the Top Female Vocalists in Music History

They called her the Empress of Soul, and rightly so. Gladys Knight didn’t just sing—she reassured. Her voice was warm, steady, full of gravitas, like a mother humming wisdom into every lyric. With the Pips behind her and the Motown machine rolling, she gave us Midnight Train to Georgia—a masterclass in longing wrapped in velvet.

She didn’t need flash. She had depth—Gospel-strong, heart-heavy, utterly human. Gladys made you believe in homecomings, heartbreaks, and hard-earned hope. While others chased trends, she walked a straighter line—one lined with soul, grace, and grit. And she never missed a step.