Which Singers Have the Widest Vocal Range?
Which Singers Have the Widest Vocal Range?
Which singers have the widest vocal range?
The world's most talented singers can cover mind-blowing spans of notes, from the deepest bass to piercing whistle registers. Some vocalists rise to fame for their number-one hits, but others inspire awe for their sheer technical range and power. This guide explores singers with the largest vocal range and the qualities that set them apart.
| Singer | Range (octaves) | Specific range | Voice type | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tim Storms | 10 | G/G#-5 – G/G#5 | Bass | Lowest sung note; Guinness record for widest male vocal range |
| Georgia Brown | 8 | G2 – G10 | Soprano | Guinness record for widest female vocal range |
| Vitas | 7 | G2 – G9 | Tenor | Whistle and falsetto expert |
| Adam Lopez | 6 | E2 – Eâ™8 | Countertenor | Guinness record for highest male vocal range |
| Dimash Kudaibergen | 6 | F#1 – D8 | Countertenor | Kazakh pop and classical |
| Mike Patton | 6 | E1 – E7 | Baritone | Rock music experimentalist |
| Mariah Carey | 5 | G2 – G7 | Soprano | Known for whistle register |
| Axl Rose | 5 | F1 – Bâ™6 | Tenor | Dynamic rock frontman |
| Ariana Grande | 4 | D3 – E7 | Soprano | Pop and R&B vocal runs |
| Freddie Mercury | 4 | F2 – D7 | Baritone/tenor | Versatile, legendary frontman |
| Minnie Riperton | 4 | G3 – F7 | Soprano | Iconic "Lovin' You" high notes |
Tim Storms: World-record bass
Tim Storms holds a Guinness World Record for "greatest vocal range (male)," spanning an incredible 10 octaves. His range starts from sub-bass notes that are almost impossible for the average listener to hear and rises through a standard tenor's territory. Storms also claims the lowest note ever produced by a human.
Georgia Brown: Guinness record-winning soprano
Guinness recognizes Georgia Brown for an astonishing 8-octave range, stretching from G2 up to G10. Her high notes are almost beyond what the human ear can distinguish, and her vocal flexibility spans both jazz and contemporary pop styles.
Vitas: Whistle and falsetto master
Vitas commands 7 octaves and can transition rapidly between registers, blending classical and pop vocals. He is famous for his viral performances and theatrical presentation. His range allows him to execute both rich low notes and soaring, almost birdlike falsetto lines.
Adam Lopez, Dimash Kudaibergen, and Mike Patton
Adam Lopez, an Australian countertenor, boasts a 6-octave range, notably holding the record for the highest note sung by a male for several years. Dimash Kudaibergen, known for his dynamic live performances, also covers 6 octaves and moves with ease from powerful lows up to airy, bell-like highs.
Mike Patton is a natural baritone, but his range also spans 6 octaves. Often called a "vocal chameleon," Patton's music uses low growls and high head and whistle registers in his experimental rock music.
Mariah Carey vocal range
Mariah Carey brings a 5-octave range from G2 to G7. As one of the few pop superstars who can seamlessly execute a whistle register, she stuns in songs like "Emotions." Carey's vocal agility and intricate high embellishments inspire both fans and vocalists worldwide.
Freddie Mercury vocal range
Freddie Mercury's voice spanned at least 4 octaves, from F2 to D7, enabling dramatic leaps during Queen performances. He could shift between a powerful baritone and an effortless tenor, electrifying audiences with both grit and sensitivity. Mercury's versatility set new standards for rock vocals.
Axl Rose vocal range
Axl Rose is known for an impressive 5-octave range, from haunting lows to guitar-like highs, fueling Guns N' Roses blockbusters like "Welcome to the Jungle." His mix of grit and control allows him to cross genres while keeping his signature sound.
Ariana Grande and Minnie Riperton vocal range
Ariana Grande has a 4-octave range with crisp pop agility and emotional R&B ballads. Minnie Riperton, meanwhile, became a legend for her crystalline whistle tones, best known in "Lovin' You." Both singers captivate listeners with virtuosic command of their highest notes, though Grande is undoubtedly more famous.
Who has the highest vocal range?
The person with the highest notes in their range is Georgia Brown, who has the highest verified female range at 8 octaves. She reached G10, which is beyond most human hearing and had to be verified by scientific equipment!
Tim Storms holds the world record for the widest vocal range, however, with an incredible span of 10 octaves, from G/G#-5 to G/G#5. His range covers extremely low bass notes and extends far into the upper register, more than any other known singer.
Other famous vocalists with wide vocal ranges
Many more artists impress listeners with their vocal range and techniques, even if they're not breaking records:
Christina Aguilera: This enigmatic artist has a robust 4-octave range and sustained high belts.
Beyoncé: This world-famous singer boasts 3 ½ octaves and smooth lower tones.
Taylor Swift: Taylor Swift's vocal range spans about 3 octaves, using a blend of techniques to create an iconic sound.
Steven Tyler: Tyler has an energetic 4-octave range as Aerosmith's lead.
Prince: Prince had a flexible 4-octave range and was known for both falsetto and baritone lines.
Céline Dion: This iconic soprano has a 4-octave range.
Whitney Houston: Known for her powerful voice, Houston had about a 3 ½-octave range.
Chanté Moore: Chanté Moore, an American artist, has an impressive 5-octave soprano range.
Deniece Williams: This American soul artist has a 4-octave voice similar to Minnie Riperton.
Angelina Jordan: This young Norwegian artist has a range that spans about 3 octaves and may expand even more in time.
Vocal range chart
Vocal range is the spectrum of notes that can be sung clearly from lowest to highest. The six standard vocal range classifications are:
Soprano
Mezzo-Soprano
Contralto (Alto)
Tenor
Baritone
Bass
FAQs about vocal range
What is my vocal range?
Most people have a range of 2 to 3 octaves. Discovering it involves starting at a comfortable note, descending and ascending in half steps, and noting where tone is still strong.
How can I improve my vocal range?
Regular warmups, breathing exercises, and consistent technique help singers expand their range. Focus on building control rather than straining for higher or lower notes. A skilled teacher can provide personalized drills during singing lessons for safe, gradual improvement.
How long does it take to expand vocal range?
Expanding your range is a gradual process. With diligent daily practice and guidance, singers can see noticeable progress in 3 to 6 months. True mastery, especially of extreme highs or lows, can take years of consistent, mindful singing.
What is a good vocal range?
A "good" vocal range lets a singer perform comfortably and expressively, often about 2 to 3 octaves for a trained amateur. Professional artists may develop 4 to 6 octaves, but artistry is more important than simply covering more notes.
Tips for finding voice lessons
Finding the right singing instructor can accelerate your growth as a singer and prevent unhealthy habits.
Start with recommendations from musicians you trust.
Review instructor bios and specialties online.
Thoroughly read reviews on Lessons and Google.
Ask about lesson flexibility (remote or in-person).
Request a trial lesson or consultation before deciding.
Questions to ask a singing instructor
Interview potential teachers thoroughly before committing:
What is your experience teaching different voice types?
Can you help with both range and vocal health?
How do you tailor lessons for beginners versus advanced students?
What styles of music do you teach?
Do you provide individual feedback after each session?
Will you help with performance anxiety or stage presence?
What materials or exercises do you assign for practice?
How do you track student progress over time?
Are there performance or recording opportunities?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.