One amazing voice I haven't seen mentioned here is Rachel Price of Lake Street Dive
Great point. I'd put Tom Petty in your latter group.There are several ways to interpret the question. One is to examine those with undeniable vocal talent, like a Christina Aguilera (don't have to like the music to recognize the voice), Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, etc. Then there are those that have unique voices or deliveries that may not be the "purest", but are likely the hardest to replicate like a Colin Hay, Dave Gahan, Lauper, etc.
Best singing voices:
Aguilera - an undeniable power house, even if the music usually sucks
Gaye
Steve Winwood
Anita Baker - Probably the best singing voice I've heard live. Even at the age of 60 she could hit all of the highs and lows with ease.
Whitney Houston
Stapleton
Paul Janeway (st Paul and the Broken Bones)
Rachael Price (already mentioned above)
Favorite Voices (combination of uniqeness and delivery)
Dave Gahan - Possible no voice/group has vocal and music that match quit like his voice and Depeche Mode's music do.
Colin Haye - Very unique voice. I can't think of one that's even comparable.
Local Natives - Probably the best harmonizing group out there.
Mick Jagger
Chris Cornell
Smino
Paul Cauthen
A Paak
Bob Seger is one of the greatest proto-punk vocalists of all time:The lack of respect in here for Robert Clark Seger is very concerning. Such a great unique voice.
Just saw Neko Case a few weeks ago. She was as quirky, endearing, and awesome as ever.Love the voice of Neko Case.
Last one to make to stop and pause is Orville Peck. Some Elvis and Roy Orbison mixed in his voice.
Excellent call. I know I'm missing a ton. Frank Sinatra was another errant omission.Great point. I'd put Tom Petty in your latter group.