The albums that define
vocal music.
Our picks for where to start with vocal music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top vocal music artists
Start with one of these.
The vocal music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Burt Bacharach
At This Time
A lush orchestral landscape woven with introspective lyrics and Bacharach's signature melodic flair.
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Misia
Misia Remix 2002 World Peace
Rhythmic remixes blend J-pop melodies with vibrant club beats, creating an infectious dance-driven atmosphere.
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Misia
New Morning
A vibrant tapestry of R&B and J-pop, weaving heartfelt melodies with contemporary rhythms.
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Dee Dee Bridgewater
This Is New
A lush blend of jazz standards and theatrical flair, showcasing Bridgewater's powerful vocals and emotional depth.
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Dee Dee Bridgewater
Midnight Sun
A lush tapestry of jazz standards, filled with Bridgewater's rich vocals and emotive interpretations.
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Burt Bacharach
The Songs of Bacharach and Costello
A lush orchestral tapestry intertwines with introspective lyrics, showcasing the timeless collaboration of two songwriting legends.
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Lea Michele
Louder
A vibrant blend of pop anthems and heartfelt ballads showcasing powerful vocal performances and personal storytelling.
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Lea Michele
Places
A heartfelt blend of pop balladry and uplifting anthems showcasing Michele's powerful vocal prowess.
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Bobby McFerrin
Play
A vibrant interplay of intricate piano melodies and vocal improvisations that redefine jazz standards.
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Bobby McFerrin
Medicine Music
A vibrant fusion of vocal harmonies and world rhythms that transcends genres through improvisational artistry.
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Donny Osmond
Donny Osmond
A polished blend of blue-eyed soul and pop rock, showcasing Donny Osmond's smooth vocals and emotive ballads.
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Donny Osmond
Alone Together
A collection of heartfelt ballads and upbeat pop tunes that showcase Osmond's smooth vocal prowess.
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Marc Ribot
¡Muy Divertido!
A vibrant fusion of Cuban rhythms and avant-garde guitar that invites joyous dancing and introspection alike.
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Marc Ribot
Yo! I Killed Your God
A frenetic blend of jazz, punk, and experimental sounds that defies conventional genre boundaries.
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Mikis Theodorakis
Canto General
A sweeping orchestral journey blending folk melodies with poignant political themes and choral fervor.
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Eric Alexander
The First Milestone
A vibrant blend of sophisticated jazz melodies and heartfelt improvisation that showcases deep emotional expression.
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Eric Alexander
Nightlife in Tokyo
A vibrant blend of contemporary jazz infused with engaging vocal melodies and intricate harmonies.
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Cassandra Wilson
Loverly
A rich tapestry of jazz standards reimagined with Cassandra Wilson's sultry vocals and innovative arrangements.
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Cassandra Wilson
Silver Pony
Cassandra Wilson weaves rich jazz textures with soulful storytelling, creating an intimate sonic tapestry that feels both timeless and contemporary.
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Keren Ann
Lady and Bird
A haunting blend of melancholic melodies and introspective lyrics that evoke a timeless, cinematic atmosphere.
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Keren Ann
Keren Ann
A lush blend of folk intricacies and soft pop melodies that evoke intimate storytelling.
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Julee Cruise
The Voice of Love
Ethereal dream pop melodies glide through lush instrumentals, enveloping the listener in a hauntingly beautiful soundscape.
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Julee Cruise
Floating into the Night
A dreamlike blend of ethereal vocals and haunting melodies that evoke a surreal, melancholic atmosphere.
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Phil Woods
Greek Cooking
A lively blend of traditional Greek melodies and jazz improvisation that invites both dancing and contemplation.
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