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For anyone who has been in choir, singing competitions, professional vocal lessons, anything that requires the training of your vocal cords, you may have heard of the terms soprano, alto, and tenor.
These are one of the few terms you learn when beginning your singing career, today we’ll be talking about the best songs to sing for your voice range, or more specifically, the best 50 alto songs best suited for your voice.
These songs were chosen based on a few common characteristics: easy, low, upbeat, and more. These alto songs can be a perfect pick for any new artist.
Table Of Contents show
Easy
1. Lady Gaga – Bad Romance
Above all songs, this classical song is perfect for many altos. The range is extremely easy to maintain during the performance and the steady pace of the music is suitable for many singers. When choosing an alto song, this will be the top pick.
2. Tina Turner – What’s Love Got to Do With It
Talk about another classic. As one of Tina Turner’s most popular songs, the simple rhythms and notes sung during this song are soothing to the voice of many talented altos.
3. Lorde – Royals
Remember this song in 2013? Lorde made a beautiful song almost 10 years ago that had harmony, melody, and in the end the perfect vocal range for many different vocal ranges. Altos, for one. are perfectly suited for this song as it is a song that flows easily and the high notes in this song are not extremely difficult to approach.
4. Rihanna (ft. Mikey Ekko) – Stay
Rihanna will be mentioned quite often throughout this entire article because the majority of her songs are excellent for beginning and expert singers. This song has a standard tone and beat that can easily be followed and is a good song to warm up to if you follow the vibratos throughout the song.
5. Cher – Believe
This song is perfect in this list of alto songs, as the vocal range is pretty low but also easy to sing along with. And even if you prefer not to practice this song. I suggest doing so as it has sun a fun tune and rhythm all in one.
6. Lana Del Ray – Summertime Sadness
This song’s unwavering tones of deep and sultry chords have allowed for this popular song to become an all-time favorite among many artists who want to experiment with different songs and with Lana Del Ray’s talent, her songs are perfect for many altos.
7. TLC – No Scrubs
Rhythm and blues, rhythm and blues. TLC’s song “No Scrubs” is a staple song for many people and with its exceptional 90s rhythm, this song is sure to be an easy feat for any looking to have a good time.
8. Selena Gomez – Lose You to Love Me
As heartbreaking as this song may sound, the harmonic voice of Selena Gomez and the notes of this alluring song is beautiful to sing to any audience or on a piano for any alto.
9. Destiny’s Child – Say My Name
The beauty of this song is that it’s another simple R&B song with simplistic rhythms that can catch anyone who listened to classic 90s music.
10.Fergie (ft. Ludacris) – Glamorous
As we close this easy and memorable list off. another classic that’ll have anyone singing along is Glamorous. A simple, yet engaging song that can be a baseline for practicing any alto songs!
Upbeat
11. Aloe Blacc – The Man
This song is bound to have everyone listening to you at an audition, concert, anything! Aloe Blacc created a song that is both enriched with melodies and mellow tones while also having a smooth tone to listen to.
12. Hozier – Take Me To Church
Ever wondered what song might hold strong meaning to it? Look no further as Hozier created an impressionable song that rang the charts in 2013 and can still have anyone singing along when playing this jarring record.
13. Sia – The Greatest
Sia has created many albums that all consist of songs perfect for altos. However, this one is very fun to learn as the energetic beat of the song grabs the attention of the melodies that flow throughout the entire song.
14. Adele – Rolling in the Deep
After years of creating enticing music, one of Adele’s most profound songs has become a large staple for many artists around the world. While Adele’s vocal range is higher, her songs are suitable for altos to take a jab at.
15. Shawn James – When I’m Gone
The attractive tunes of this song are perfectly suitable for many altos. The vocal range in this song is good enough for many singers to learn new ways how to use their voice especially since this is not a typical pop song!
16. Jordin Sparks – Battlefield
This song has gorgeous notes that can be approached with lots of practice but Battlefield has different chords that can allow for more room to grow as an artist yourself.
17. Ariel Moore – Don’t Stop Believing
The vocal range for this song is not too high nor too low, so having to adjust your vocal lessons will not be needed when you take your time to listen to the harmonies of this song and embrace the simplistic tones of the music.
18. Taylor Swift – Crazier
Taylor Swift’s songs are usually best suited for sopranos, but many of her songs can be sung by altos. The music notes can be tweaked to benefit the singer of the song when covering the lyrics, but with good training and lessons, the song can turn out perfect.
19. Bring Me to Life – Evanescence
This pop-rock record shouldn’t be forgotten as the notes are rather enjoyable to belt out when singing to anyone. If you haven’t chosen a song out of this list yet, try this one out as you’ll enjoy the exaggerated rhythm throughout the entire time when you sing.
20. Rhianna – Pour it Up
A genuine pop song with rhythmic beats and simple notes to hit. However, despite the notes being consistent all throughout the board, the song calls for some chords to be focused on, but not too much.
Fast
21. Rhianna – Don’t Stop the Music
Rihanna’s song “Don’tS top the Music” is a quick and upbeat song that is very straightforward in its lyrical background and steady vocal range. Every beat you hear is simultaneous to the harmony of this song.
22. Aretha Franklin – Chain of Fools
This soulful tune is extremely captivating to all ears. Hear Aretha Franklin belt in rhythmic tunes and learn quickly just how much of a story you can tell with a song such as this one.
23. Etta James – At Last
While a slow song, it is still pretty fast in rhythms and the steady growth of instruments such as the violin. Etta James’ beautiful waves of singing extenuate the beauty of her voice and the overall message of the story she tells.
24. Taylor Swift – Style
This very rich pop song is enticing to many listeners as the melody is easy to listen to and the harmony of Taylor Swift’s voice enhances the simple notes of this as it progresses into vocal ranges that are not difficult to reach for any altos.
25. Gloria Gay nor – I Will Survive
The edginess of this record is no doubt going to bring an entire crowd together. With exasperated rhythms and beats clashing with jumpy melodies and harmonies, this song is a hit among many alto songs.
26. Sia – Snowman
A holiday special but a good song to sing along with. This joyful holiday record is sure to be a gift to sing during Christmas for practice, karaoke, or even a performance.
27. Adele – Send My Love to Your New Lover
Again, Adele’s songs are collectively a good pick when choosing alto songs. Her vocal range is perfect in this song and the overall message of this record is a known classic to anyone who listens to any pop music.
28. Lorde – Team
Out of her “Pure Heroine” album, this song also has a legendary aesthetic about it as it is a pop song that tells a story about a dream that Lorde had back in 2013 when creating her debut album.
29. Aaliyah – Are You That Somebody
A colorful and radiant song that exudes sexy trendy tunes. This Aaliyah classic is a song to try out when for anyone because of its natural beats that flow with the attitude of the song
30. Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen
It goes without saying that Queen’s songs are a familiar band that has produced popular songs all across this board. With this song, there’s no telling how many people you’ll shock and after you sing your heart out to this.
Slow
31. Edwin McCains – I’II Be
This slow country-pop song is intriguing to hear as the tone of the song is slow and steady. The stability of the rhythm in this song can be followed without fail as the beat continues to embrace the lyrics throughout the entire song.
32. Lady Gaga – Million Reasons
Lady Gaga’s songs have always been an intriguing pick for many as her musical aesthetic has changed throughout the years with her growth.
33. Jason Mraz (Feat. Colbie Cailat) – Lucky
Coming in for more soothing tones is this song that holds elegance in its vibrant lyrics. Following along to this song (with or without a partner) is fun as the song calls for simplicity and not complication.
34. Five for Fighting – Superman (It’s Not Easy)
This very easygoing song wraps any artist who sings this in a comfortable blanket as the vocal range of this song is effortless to embrace as you warm up your voice and prepare to use your voice.
35. Toni Braxton – Love Again
Toni Braxton’s vintage music is classic R&B pop songs that will garner attention no matter where you go. When singing this song, it is meant to be expressed through many emotions and feelings.
36. Adele – Someone Like You
Adele’s solo on this song is very delightful, with a descriptive tone throughout the entirety of the song. Adele’s storytelling abilities in all of her songs make it easy for others to find a song to resonate with.
37. Andra Day – Rise Up
As an inspirational song, you can not go wrong with pulling a few tears from the audience when you sing this captivating song to a crowd of people at any gathering. The vocals are crisp and emotional as well as the lyrics being sung to the crowd.
38. Marvin Gaye – / Heard It Through The Grapevine
Marvin Gaye’s slow R&B pop song is perfect for those long summer days or even nights where you want to loosen up and sing your heart out to the sky.
39. Dear Lord – Makayel
This artist knows how to draw in a crowd with his sultry voice that explains the depth of his love for his significant other. When singing this song, the vocal range will not be a threat as the song is a soft touch to the ears of many who listen.
40. Trains – Drop of Jupiter
Sounds like a teenage classic! If this song doesn’t put you in good spirits, now it will. Try this song out next time you want to experiment with a pop song that has hints of rock music sprinkled within its instruments.
Karaoke / Audition Songs
41. Tony Bennett – I Left My Heart in San Francisco
As Tony Bennet describes his love waiting for him. the song has a few lyrics that hit home for lots of artists that try out this easy but nostalgic tune.
42. Frank Sinatra – Fly Me to The Moon
This all-time classic is well-known for its sentimental value and over the last few years, has been covered by many beautiful voices.
43. Giveon – For Tonight
As a new artist on the R&B scene, Giveon’s music has been well-known for grasping the hearts of many people around the world. One of his newest singles has a nice touch for many alto singers the harmonies are perfectly synced with the rhythm and melodies in his song.
44. Frank Ocean – Nights
This is song is a gorgeous song that settles nicely into the ears so when listening for songs to use at auditions or your own personal concerts, consider this expressive song as it describes the nights when waiting for someone you’ve been longing for.
45. Beyonce – Single Ladies
A party without Beyonce? Unheard of “Single Ladies” has been around for years and without fail, many have made many covers to this song simply because of its popularity. While the song may be a bit out of range for some altos, singing the song for fun is no doubt an enjoyable experience.
46. Jimmie Davis – You Are My Sunshine
This sweet is such a joy to sing, you would not want to miss the opportunity to take a chance at it The message of this song is as captivating as the lyrics that bring life to this piece. Anyone would enjoy hearing the wonders of this song.
47. A Great Big World (ft. Christina Aguilera) – Say Something (I’m Giving Up On You)
If you ever wanted to blast the audience away, this is the song to go. While it is a slow song mixed with deep, moving chords, this song is extremely touching to any and all crowds that share the same sentiment of this song.
48. John Legend – All of Me
John Legend’s loving tone in this song allows anyone to enjoy both the singer and the experience. When hearing this song for the first time, many gushed and awed at this song with joy. so for altos, this will forever be a timeless piece to try.
49. Jack Johnson – It’s All Understood
This song communicates a deep meaning about listening to another person, or. significant other. With deep tones of releasing confusion over why no one truly listens, the vocal range and chords is a perfect fit for many lists that consists of different alto songs to choose from.
50. Passenger – Let Her Go
Last but not least a relieving but heartbreaking song that discusses the need to release the one person you want the most but also the want to keep them close forever. This song is both perfect to sing at an audition for expressive emotion and is worth a try at building the strength in your own vocal cords.
After reading what alto songs are the best it should be clear that many of these songs are simple to learn and are not as complex. Because these songs are easy to both memorize and practice with, as you progress, you as an artist will grow to learn more songs that are a little more complicated as you continue to advance in your musical career.
Any comments or questions that you may have, state them below.
FAQs
What are the best Arias for altos? ›
In my opinion, there are three arias which are very helpful to start working the vocal technique in Alto voices: Verdi prati, selve amene (opera: Alcina, role: Ruggiero, Handel), Buss und Reu (Oratorio: St Matthew Passion, Bach) and Qui sedes (Oratorio: Gloria, RV 589).
What can altos sing? ›Nowadays, the word “alto” is a general term used to describe a lower female voice rather than a specific vocal category. Chorus music usually calls for an “alto” part for voices with a strong middle and lower register, but there's no real separate alto voice type in Western music.
How do I find the alto part of a song? ›If the melody (normal part) is sang as the highest vocal part in the song, THAT IS THE SOPRANO VOCAL PART. Let the Alto vocalist listen for the part that lies just below the Melody, and above the lowest vocal part.
What key do most altos sing? ›The typical alto range lies between F3 to F5, though there are those who can sing above or below this range. Those who can sing below are often called “contralto's” and can usually sing in a range similar to a tenor.
How high can altos sing? ›alto, (Italian: “high”), in vocal music the register approximately between the F below middle C to the second D above—the second highest part in four-part music.
How do you hit high notes for altos? ›- Build Your Vocal Strength. In order to hit better high notes, you need to strengthen your voice. ...
- Open Your Mouth More When You Sing. ...
- Point Your Chin Down. ...
- Hold Your Jaw Open. ...
- Press the Back of Your Tongue Down.
Adele is one of the best-selling musical artists of all time. Each album produces new hits, and her unique alto range allows her to make music that resonates with people of all ages. Her Billboard record proves that her place in music history is well-secured.
Who is the best alto singer in the world? ›Adele is possibly the most famous of the powerhouse alto singers. What makes Adele special in my opinion is not just simply her vocal characteristics, but also her emotion is so palpable. Her voice is also timeless; in this particular performance, she captivates us in the first phrase she sings.
Do females sing alto? ›The Alto vocal range is the second lowest of the female voice types and has a tessitura of F3-F5. While this voice still has a good amount of weight, many trained Altos can hit huge notes at the top of their range. Others stay low all the time.
What is a true alto? ›A true alto, in operatic singing, would be classed as a contralto. This very rare voice type is the lowest female voice. Their low notes are luscious and full of volume. Singers in this group can have an androgynous, distinctive sound. Think of memorable performers such as Amy Winehouse, Annie Lennox, or Cher.
What range is a female alto? ›
What is an Alto's Vocal Range? Hail the alto, the lowest of the female vocal ranges, C#3 - E5.
Which is higher alto 1 or 2? ›In choral music, the alto section is often divided into two groups: alto 1 versus alto 2. Alto 2 music is written from F3 to A4. Alto 1 singers are normally relegated to notes up to F5 and sometimes higher, and often do not sing notes lower than A3.
Can altos sing soprano? ›This means that if you are an alto, you will never become a soprano, no matter how hard you train to increase your upper range and develop your head register. Likewise, a tenor will always be a tenor, a baritone a baritone, a mezzo-soprano a mezzo-soprano, etc..
What is the saddest key to sing in? ›Historically, classical composers felt that D minor was the most melancholy of the keys, suitable for lamentations, dirges and requiems.
Are female altos rare? ›Is alto a rare voice? A true alto is rare, and many female altos can be classified as a mezzo-soprano. The term is also used in an instrumental context.
How do I know my voice type? ›- Warm up. Before doing any type of singing, it's vitally important to do a vocal warm up, particularly when singing near the edges of our vocal range. ...
- Find your lowest note. ...
- Find your highest note. ...
- Compare your lowest and highest note.
"If you have something like a piano – or can download a piano app, there are so many available, some of them free, then start with middle C and work your way up, see how high you can go. If you can go up eight or nine notes, that's the alto range. If you can go much higher than that, you're likely to be a soprano.
What is a male alto called? ›The word alto can mean: someone who sings lower than a soprano. Usually females with lower voices are called contraltos. A male alto is a man who sings in a special way called falsetto.
How do you open your throat to sing high notes? ›You can also massage your jaw and neck. Warming vocal exercises also help your vocal cords come to life. Try making deep purring sounds, executing vocal runs by singing a single note up and down in scale, or practice singing your octaves. Start singing in your neutral voice and slowly work your way up the scale.
Why can't I hit high notes? ›If we want to sing a higher note, we need to stretch our vocal cords out further. And the longer the cords are stretched, the faster they'll vibrate. This makes it possible to sing a higher note. The farther apart our vocal cords vibrate, the higher the note we can hit.
How do you open your throat when singing high notes? ›
One helpful technique for ensuring that the resonating spaces are open is using the neutral vowel 'uh' in the larynx and pharynx - that is, assuming this shape within the throat - before bringing focus into the tone and singing the desired vowel. This technique allows the open pharynx to be established first.
Is Dolly Parton alto? ›Dolly Parton's Range and Timbre. According to this interview, Dolly considers herself a soprano. This is tough for me as an alto – I found when trying to imitate her that I couldn't keep her light, airy tone on her higher notes.
Was Whitney Houston an alto? ›Houston was famous for having a very wide range. Some of her songs spanned quite a bit of vocal territory, from alto to the highest soprano.
Does Billie Eilish sing alto? ›However, Billie Eilish's voice is unique - as a soprano, she sits above the standard female pop alto, something which gives her music an immediate dream-like quality, allowing her to create an atmospheric listening experience.
Who is the best female vocalist in the world? ›- 8: Dionne Warwick. ...
- 7: Adele. ...
- 6: Madonna. ...
- 5: Billie Holiday. ...
- 4: Kate Bush. ...
- 3: Ella Fitzgerald. ...
- 2: Amy Winehouse. ...
- 1: Aretha Franklin. Topping our list of the best female singers of all time, Aretha Franklin also stands as the most-charting female singer in history.
Ariana is a soprano, which means she can easily sing high notes.
Which singer has the most beautiful voice in the world? ›- 1 of 35. Celine Dion. Kevin Winter/Getty Images. ...
- 2 of 35. Barbra Streisand. Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for BSB. ...
- 3 of 35. Etta James. ...
- 4 of 35. Nina Simone. ...
- 5 of 35. Aretha Franklin. ...
- 6 of 35. Whitney Houston. ...
- 7 of 35. Smokey Robinson. ...
- 8 of 35. Mariah Carey.
In classical music, a "pure" contralto is considered the rarest type of female voice.
Is Freddie Mercury a alto? ›Although he naturally held a baritone voice, he primarily sang as a tenor and of course had no problem then shifting into soprano parts.
What does alto mean for girls? ›(æltoʊ ) Word forms: altos. countable noun [oft N n] An alto is a woman who has a low singing voice.
What is lowest alto? ›
Contralto (Alto) is the lowest female vocal type. A typical alto has a range from F3 to F5. In the lower and upper extremes, some contraltos can extend down to D3 or up to A5.
Can altos hit high notes? ›While most of them sing beautifully in the mid-range, altos can hit high notes with their head voice quite often.
Do altos sing melody or harmony? ›While sopranos generally carry the melody in a group, the altos supply the harmony, which gives the choir a full rich sound. The harmony is vital to the overall sound that a choir or ensemble has.
What voice type is Adele? ›As a mezzo-soprano, Adele's songs sit in a range that suits most listeners, singing along.
What is the most common female voice? ›Soprano: this is the highest singing voice, with the highest tessitura. It is also the most common female voice.
How do I sing better? ›- Warm up your body before your voice. Aerobic exercise is a great way to warm up before singing. ...
- Release tension. ...
- Don't “take” a breath when singing. ...
- Don't hold your breath before you sing. ...
- Open your mouth. ...
- Remain relaxed. ...
- Speak on pitch. ...
- Care deeply about what you're singing.
- Focus on the Performance.
- Improve Your Listening Skills.
- Record Yourself and Keep an Audio Diary.
- Study Artists with “Unique” Voices.
- Improve Your Breathing.
- Hire a Personal Coach.
- Work on Your Confidence.
- Remember, They're Only Opinions!
Gaga is often identified as a contralto or alto: her voice lacks the truly androgynous quality of a contralto, although she may (theoretically) be given an alto part of she sang in a choir.
Which is harder alto or soprano? ›The alto saxophone is easier to play than the soprano saxophone, and so it is a good choice for beginners. A simple comparison of the length of the soprano and alto saxophones shows that they are about the same, 70 centimeters long.
Who usually sings alto? ›An alto is the female voice type with the lowest range, and considered a middle voice in a classical choral setting. Alto singers are typically women, with few exceptions. Historically, there are four primary voice types in order from highest to lowest range: soprano, alto, tenor, and bass.
Does Billie Eilish have an alto voice? ›
However, Billie Eilish's voice is unique - as a soprano, she sits above the standard female pop alto, something which gives her music an immediate dream-like quality, allowing her to create an atmospheric listening experience.
Is Taylor Swift an alto? ›Taylor Swift is an extremely popular alto (AKA mezzo) singer that has a very impressive lower range and upper range for a pop star. She has a unique mix of rich dark notes and a bright upper range, which is why many people classify her as a light lyric soprano that has the capability of an alto.
Who is the best female alto singer? ›- Gladys Knight.
- Cher.
- Ella Fitzgerald.
- Patsy Cline.
- Bonnie Raitt.
- Adele.
- Liza Minnelli.
- Norah Jones.
A true alto, in operatic singing, would be classed as a contralto. This very rare voice type is the lowest female voice. Their low notes are luscious and full of volume. Singers in this group can have an androgynous, distinctive sound.
Is Mariah Carey an alto? ›Regarding her voice type, Carey said that she is an alto, though several critics have described her as a soprano. However, within contemporary forms of music, singers are classified by the style of music they sing. There is currently no authoritative voice classification system within non-classical music.
What voice type is Beyonce? ›Beyoncé is basically an operatic mezzo-soprano in disguise – and she proved it in this impressive clip.
Is Whitney Houston an alto singer? ›Houston was famous for having a very wide range. Some of her songs spanned quite a bit of vocal territory, from alto to the highest soprano.
Is Katy Perry a alto singer? ›Katy Perry is a light lyric soprano.
Is Demi Lovato an alto or soprano? ›Vocal Type: Light-Lyric Soprano (4 Octaves, 1 note and a semi tone.) Positives: Wide chest register, topping out at Bb5.
Is Kelly Clarkson A alto? ›Kelly Clarkson is a Light-Lyric Soprano.