The Best Singers I've Ever Seen Live in Concert
Live concerts are unique windows into the talent and passion of performers. Over the years, I've had the privilege to witness some of the greatest singers of our time, and each performance was a memorable highlight in my life. In this article, I will share my deepest convictions about who the best live singers are, and why their performances stand out.
Perfect Storm: Tina Turner
No discussion about top live performances can be complete without mentioning Tina Turner. I had the good fortune to see her in concert in London a grand total of six times, and each show was exceptional. To put this in perspective, even legendary bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and solo artists such as Rod Stewart and Eric Clapton, did not come close to the level of performance that Tina Turner delivered. Her 1990 Wembley Arena concert, though many decades past, remains a pinnacle in my memory.
Incredible Duet: Eric Clapton vs. The Allman Brothers Band
Another memorable performance was when I had to decide between Eric Clapton and The Allman Brothers Band, who both dazzled the audience for two to three hours. Both performances were equally titanic, each in their way. Clapton’s intense guitar work and the Allman Brothers’ raw energy were a perfect storm of live rock performance.
Concerts that Meditated Contemplate:
When it comes to contemplative and emotionally rich concerts, I find that Michael Crawford and Neil Diamond are hard to beat. Each performance was a different journey, but both provided incredible music that resonated for hours after the show ended. Neil Diamond’s sharpness and soulful renditions are a testament to his enduring talent, while Michael Crawford’s theatrical and powerful performances bring the songs to life in a way that few can match.
Prince: The Man Who Left It All On the Stage
Notable mentions must include Prince's immediate and enduring impact. I saw Prince three separate times, spanning two decades, and his energy and artistry remained unyielding. During his performance of "Purple Rain," I genuinely felt like it was a private show, where only the two of us existed. Prince was encircled by a massive ensemble, yet his commanding stage presence overshadowed it all. He embodied the spirit of live performance in its purest form, making each moment a profound experience.
Godfather of Soul: James Brown
In the realm of live rock and funk, James Brown is a titan. His concerts were events, pure and simple. Whether it was his raw power, his dancing, or his raw soul, his performances were unforgettable. His legacy and the sheer force of his talent are unmatched.
Sinead O’Connor: The Voltage of Live Performance
Among other memorable guitarists and vocalists, such as Meat Loaf, the best live performer for me has always been Sinead O’Connor. There is still a thrill I feel when I remember her electrifying performance. Her raw emotion, powerful vocals, and electrifying stage presence left a lasting impression on me. Her concerts were like a tidal wave of sound and energy that seemed to make every molecule in the air vibrate.
Additional Notable Performances
Other performances I’ve seen, like those of Howlin’ Wolf, Willie Nelson, Levon Helm, and Richard Manuel, among others, are memorable. These artists, while incredible, have a different character than the ones I have mentioned, but each brought something special to the stage. Meat Loaf’s best concert was certainly a highlight, showcasing his theatrical prowess and powerful vocals.
These performances were not just about music, but about the profound impact of a single human's ability to connect with thousands of others in a shared moment of pure emotion. Many of these concerts were captured in my memory forever, and the artists mentioned above continue to stand out as the best live performers I’ve ever seen.