The Greatest Ten Tenors
This list is full of legendary tenors who have changed the face of music, leaving an indelible mark on classical and operatic music. Their performances have inspired generations of singers and will continue to do so for many years to come. Whether it’s the passionate vibrato of Enrico Caruso, the awe-inspiring power of Placido Domingo or the smooth lyricism of Fritz Wunderlich, these tenors remain some of the greatest icons in musical history.
10. Fritz Wunderlich
German tenor Fritz Wunderlich was known for his beautiful vocal timbre and ease of execution. His recordings include popular arias such as “Vesti La Giubba”, “Che Gelida Manina” and “O Mio Babbino Caro”. He was also renowned for his interpretations of the Lieder repertoire, with some of his most famous songs being “Der Erlkönig” and “Guten Abend, Gut’ Nacht”.
9. Beniamino Gigli
Italian tenor Beniamino Gigli was once described as “the greatest Italian tenor of all time” by Arturo Toscanini. His repertoire included over 70 operas, with some of his most beloved pieces being “Vesti La Giubba”, “La Donna è Mobile” and “Nessun Dorma”.
8. Roberto Alagna
French tenor Roberto Alagna is widely regarded as one of the best singer-actors in the history of opera. His signature roles include Rodolfo in ‘La Bohème’, Calaf in ‘Turandot’ and Radames in ‘Aida’. He’s also well known for his beautiful renditions of “Nessun Dorma” and “Mattinata”.
7. Richard Tucker
American tenor Richard Tucker was a celebrated performer in opera and Broadway musicals throughout the 1940s to 1960s. His most popular roles include Radames in ‘Aida’ and Cavaradossi in ‘Tosca’. Some of his finest recordings are “Vesti La Giubba” and “Che Gelida Manina”.
6. Giuseppe di Stefano
Often referred to as “the Golden Voice”, Giuseppe di Stefano was an Italian operatic tenor known for his beautiful lyricism and poetic phrasing. He made some of the most iconic recordings of the 20th century, including “Nessun Dorma”, “La Fleur Que Tu M’avais Jetée” and “E Lucevan Le Stelle”.
5. Jussi Björling
Hailing from Sweden, Jussi Björling is remembered for having one of the most powerful voices in operatic history. His signature roles included Rodolfo in ‘La Bohème’ and Alfredo in ‘La Traviata’. Some of his most famous recordings include “Che Gelida Manina” and “O Mio Babbino Caro”.
4. Mario Lanza
American tenor Mario Lanza was once referred to as “the greatest singing actor since Valentino” by Hollywood mogul Louis B. Mayer. He began his career as an actor but eventually went on to become a successful recording artist, with songs like “Granada”, “Be My Love” and “Because You’re Mine”.
3. Enrico Caruso
A native of Naples, Italy, Enrico Caruso was one of the first singers to achieve worldwide fame. He is remembered for his beautiful voice, incredible breath control and passionate performances. His most popular arias are probably “O Sole Mio”, “Mattinata” and “Vesti La Giubba”.
2. Placido Domingo
Another famous Italian tenor, Placido Domingo was initially trained as an opera singer and made his debut at La Scala in Milan in 1961. He then went on to make over 140 recordings, becoming the most recorded opera singer in history. His signature songs include “Granada”, “La donna è mobile” and “E lucevan le stelle”.
1. Luciano Pavarotti
Hailing from Italy, the beloved Luciano Pavarotti is one of the most iconic tenors in musical history. Lauded for his exquisite vocal range and power, he became a superstar after performing with other legendary singers at “The Three Tenors” concert in Rome,1990. His most memorable songs are probably “Nessun Dorma”, “Caruso” and “Funiculì Funiculà”.
