A look at the iconic artists who, like Whitney Houston, are celebrated for their unmatched vocal talent and legendary superstar status.

Mariah Carey

A direct contemporary of Whitney, Mariah is a legendary vocalist known for her five-octave range and masterful use of melisma. She is a record-breaking pop superstar who crafted a string of iconic hits and ballads that defined the 90s and beyond.

Celine Dion

The "Queen of Power Ballads," Celine Dion is a vocal powerhouse whose emotional and flawless performances on songs like "My Heart Will Go On" made her one of the best-selling artists of all time and a fixture on film soundtracks.

Aretha Franklin

The "Queen of Soul" is a foundational figure whose vocal genius and gospel roots influenced Whitney and countless other singers. Her powerful voice and commanding presence made her a musical icon and a symbol of civil rights.

Beyoncé

A modern-day parallel to Whitney's all-around superstardom, Beyoncé is a peerless vocalist, performer, and cultural force. Her ability to consistently innovate while maintaining commercial success has made her the definitive voice of her generation.

Diana Ross

As the lead singer of The Supremes and a hugely successful solo artist, Diana Ross reigned as a Motown and pop legend. Her glamorous persona and string of timeless hits cemented her status as a global icon.

Barbra Streisand

A true EGOT winner, Barbra Streisand's career spans decades and genres. Her unique, powerful voice and dramatic flair have made her an icon of pop and Broadway music, known for her ability to command a stage with her vocals alone.

Adele

Adele's phenomenal rise to fame is a testament to the power of a great voice and a heartbreaking ballad. Her emotionally raw, record-shattering albums and undeniable vocal talent have made her a global sensation akin to Whitney's early career.

Tina Turner

The "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll," Tina Turner was a force of nature. With her powerful, gritty vocals and electrifying stage presence, she became a symbol of resilience and strength, reinventing herself as a solo artist to achieve unprecedented success.

Patti LaBelle

The "Godmother of Soul," Patti LaBelle is a vocal powerhouse with a stunning range and dramatic stage presence. Her soaring vocals and heartfelt delivery on legendary ballads and R&B anthems have made her a queen of soul music.

Janet Jackson

A true pop icon, Janet Jackson redefined R&B and pop with her innovative sound, intricate choreography, and groundbreaking music videos. While their vocal styles were different, her cultural impact and status as a global superstar are on par with Whitney's own legendary career.

Dolly Parton

The "Queen of Country," Dolly Parton is a masterful songwriter and a phenomenal vocalist whose influence transcends genres. Her song "I Will Always Love You" became one of Whitney's most iconic hits, a direct link between two of music's most enduring voices.

Chaka Khan

The "Queen of Funk," Chaka Khan possesses a powerful, distinct voice that is instantly recognizable and has influenced generations of singers. Her vocal range, style, and fierce delivery have made her an icon of R&B and soul.

Etta James

Etta James is a foundational voice of soul and blues music, celebrated for her raw, gut-wrenching vocals and emotional authenticity. Her powerful, gritty voice is a cornerstone of American music and set a benchmark for vocalists to follow.

Madonna is widely known as the "Queen of Pop" and is one of the most influential figures in the genre's history. Her career, which spans over four decades, has been defined by her ability to reinvent her sound and image, blending pop with dance, electronic, and rock music.

Rihanna is one of the biggest pop stars of her generation. Her music is primarily classified as pop and R&B, though she has also explored other genres like dancehall, hip-hop, and EDM, showcasing her versatility as a pop artist.