Time for the debate of top male voices

Part Two of a two-part series on American singers who possessed the greatest musical voices.

As predicted, the debate began almost simultaneously … at the time of the final keystroke. The list of the 10 Best Female American Vocalists sparked controversy. Any good, subjective list is certain to do that.

The first comment asked how a list of best female vocalists could not contain Lady Gaga or Queen Latifah. I took the easy way out. Since neither were mentioned by our esteemed panel of local musicians – Steve Ritrovato, Andy Petruzelli, Cheryl Petruzelli, Christina Triglia and Frankie Ewing -- I could not make the solo decision to put them among the Top 10.

Truth be known, I briefly considered Lady Gaga. She has a great voice, but dismissed her because her act is so much more than singing. I could never imagine the top vote-getter, Ella Fitzgerald, swinging from a trapeze while singing.

And the rest on the list – Etta James, Reba McEntire, Sarah Vaughan, Beverly Sills, Whitney Houston, Leann Rimes, Aretha Franklin, Carrie Underwood, Jo Stafford -- were so much more accomplished than Queen Latifah.

The next comment claimed that the list was too heavily country – three out of 10.

Certainly, that was a large percentage but country music just lends itself so well to the female voice. They can generate so much emotion, while relaying the stories of heartbreak and travail.

Moving to the American-born male list, there is not a similar emphasis on country. Only a few country singers were nominated … and only one made the final list. The males who have had great success in country music tend to have unique voices, rather than great ones. Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Garth Brooks.

The overwhelming predominance of style among the male nominations came from the great era of crooners. To show the strength of that era, great singers such as Billy Eckstine, Joe Williams, Bing Crosby, Mel Torme, Jerry Vale and Andy Williams were nominated … and did NOT make the final list.

Crosby was the one who came closest, but barely missed the cut. For all of his vocal quality, he did not generate the emotion that so many of the other crooners did – especially in their ballads. Perry Como was another who fell prey to being a bit too smooth.

Those who did make the list all possessed the ability to leave the listener breathless.

Enough with the explanations. It’s time to unveil the list.

1. Frank Sinatra – Nobody ever phrased a song like Sinatra. And his progression from swingin’ favorites to soulful bal-