The 20 most iconic rock vocalists

As the frontman of Led Zeppelin, Robert Plant's vocal performances are the definition of iconic. Especially in tunes like "Whole Lotta Love" and "Going to California," both of which are intrinsically linked with Plant's characteristic wail. 

Pretty much any rock music fan will tell you that Freddie Mercury is the genre's greatest showman. But he's also one of the greatest vocalists in music history in any genre, thanks to his dynamic vocal range and incredible ability to infuse emotion into his singing. 

Both as the vocalist in Fleetwood Mac and as a solo artist, Stevie Nicks boasts one of rock music's most distinctive voices. Her unique vibrato and deeply vulnerable style helped turn songs like like "Silver Springs" and "Dreams" into rock legends. 

Arguably one of the most powerful voices in rock history, Ann Wilson is in a league all her own. Wilson's soaring soprano brings a dramatic, almost operatic vibe to Heart's catalog — just listen to "Magic Man" or "Crazy On You" for proof. 

Whether or not you think Mick Jagger is the best singer in the world, there's no denying that his voice is unique. And when paired with his inimitable stage presence, those two factors helped produce one of rock music's greatest showmen. 

The late, great Chris Cornell boasted a staggering four-octave vocal range, bringing incredible power to his bands Soundgarden and Audioslave. Even if you just listen to "Black Hole Sun," arguably Soundgarden's most recognizable tune, you'll understand why he's so well-regarded among rock vocal aficionados. 

When teamed up with McCartney, John Lennon helped produce some of the best harmonies in rock music, from the gloomy "Eleanor Rigby" to cult-favorite "I'll Follow The Sun." 

Some may complain about Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder's "mumble-singing," but there's no denying that he helped define the sound of '90s rock — or that there's never been a singer in rock music who does it quite like Eddie. 

Since Aerosmith formed in 1970, Steven Tyler has been one of rock music's most recognizable voices. Whether you first heard him perform "Dream On" in 1973 or "Crazy" in 1993, his powerful and distinct vocals are the stuff of rock legends. 

As a Beatle and as a solo artist, Paul McCartney is responsible for some of rock music's most beloved — and universally recognizable — hits. His vocals can truly run the gamut, from the softly sung "Hey Jude" to his impressive performance on "Oh Darling." 

Much like his style and sonic influences, David Bowie's vocals evolved over the course of his storied career. But they were always innately Bowie, who proved that he could hold his own alongside a great like Freddie Mercury on "Under Pressure." 

During his time as the frontman of Journey, Steve Perry delivered some of rock music's most iconic performances in songs like "Open Arms" and "Don't Stop Believin'". 

The defining voice of '90s grunge, Kurt Cobain's vocals should be just as acclaimed as his songwriting prowess. 

With plenty of influence from her punk roots, Debbie Harry brought an almost angelic vibe to Blondie's biggest tracks, especially "Call Me" and "Heart of Glass," while still managing to totally rock out. 

As the frontwoman of the Pretenders, Chrissie Hynde's voice is impressively able to convey a wide range of emotions — from hurt to rage to longing. 

Though he has struggled with vocal issues in recent years, there are few vocalists more powerful than Axl Rose at his prime. Even if you don't love Guns N' Roses, anyone can appreciate Rose's remarkable vocals on "Knockin' On Heaven's Door," among other hits. 

Roger Daltrey is among the more underrated rock vocalists, but anyone who doubts his presence among the greats should simply listen to "Baba O'Riley" or "Pinball Wizard" for proof. 

With his distinctly working-class, Jersey vibe, Bruce Springsteen's rough-around-the-edges vocals are an essential component of his sound. 

There are few singers like Janis Joplin. The Texas native's characteristic rasp, combined with her blues influence and deeply emotive singing, produced some of the '70s most iconic rock hits. 

Ozzy Osbourne may not be your favorite rock singer, but there are few voices more unique than the Black Sabbath frontman's. And there are few rock performances more legendary than the Ozzman's on "Crazy Train."