Most Underrated Classic Rock Singers

2024-12-30

Classic rock band Rush.

In honor of those unsung voices that rock, Audio Ink Radio offers its tally of the most underrated classic rock singers of all time. – Story by Anne Erickson, Courtesy promo photo

Many of the finest singers in the world are among the best classic rock vocalists, but amid names like Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin and Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones, there are plenty of underrated classic rock singers. So, just because these voices don’t always get the recognition they deserve, that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have their moment in the spotlight. In honor of those unsung voices that rock, Audio Ink Radio offers its tally of the most underrated classic rock singers of all time.

The Most Underrated Classic Rock Singers of All Time

Chrissie Hynde

Amid all the Ann and Nancy Wilsons of the classic rock era, sometimes, Chrissie Hynde is left off best-of tallies. But, she should always be included, because Hynde is one of the greatest classic rock singers of her era. As the singer and main songwriter behind the Pretenders, Hynde’s vocals are instantly recognizable.

Geddy Lee

The thing that makes Geddy Lee’s vocals so individual to him, of course, is his high-pitched singing that makes his vocal lines all his own. In the prog-rock world, it doesn’t get any bigger than Rush, but Lee’s vocals are often overshadowed by the intricacy of the the instrumentals in the band. It’s a shame, but it makes Lee one of the most underrated classic rock singers ever.

Glenn Hughes

As with many of the names on this roster, Glenn Hughes isn’t necessarily underrated, because he’s enjoyed a stellar career and is still rocking. But, it’s surprising how few tallies of the best classic rock vocalists include him. Whether he’s singing in Deep Purple, Black Country Communion or any of his other numerous projects, Hughes has a very distinct and beautiful voice.

John Waite

John Waite became one of the most distinctive voices in classic rock during his time with Bad English, but he also has a rich body of solo work that’s just as impressive.

Ian Astbury

The Cult isn’t always a band that people think of when it comes to classic rock, but they certainly fall into that category, and what really helps make the Cult stand out is Ian Astbury and his intricate vocalis. The Cult is really its own genre, and Astbury helped the band carve out a niche during a time when the rock world was extra saturated.

Paul Rodgers

Paul Rodgers has lent his stellar pipes to a variety of bands, including Free, Bad Company and even Queen, to name a few. His vocals are always soulful, passionate and earnest, which makes for a great combination.

Tom Keifer

Tom Keifer is often praised for his great, bluesy guitar playing, but he’s also a solid lead vocalist. Whether he’s singing Cinderella classics or rocking with his solo band, Keifer has powerful, unique vocals that really do have that blues-based, raw delivery that’s totally rock ‘n’ roll. He’s certainly one of the most underrated classic rock singers of all time.

Find Audio Ink Radio’s tally of the most legendary classic rock albums of all time for more classic rock nostalgia.

Anne Erickson
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Posted by Anne Erickson | Features, Music, Rock