30 Songs for Deep Voices - Musical Mum (2024)

Finding the right song to match the gravitas of a deep voice can be a bit of a challenge. But with songs like Johnny Cash’s “Hurt” or the modern allure of Hozier’s “Take Me To Church,” a deep voice can transport the listener to an entirely different emotional realm.

While high notes and catchy pop melodies are often the norm in mainstream music, they’re not always the best fit for vocalists who shine in lower registers. That’s why we’ve created a carefully curated list of songs that not only suit deep voices but can be transformed into unique masterpieces by them.

1. “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra

As one of the most iconic jazz standards ever, “Fly Me to the Moon” has a timeless charm that has been enjoyed for generations. Originally popularized by Frank Sinatra, this song is a jewel in the Rat Pack’s crown and a fantastic fit for deep voices. Sinatra’s own baritone provides a compelling case study in how a deep voice can infuse a song with soulful elegance.

2. “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect” has almost become the quintessential wedding and love song for its generation. With its simple yet poignant lyrics and tender melody, it’s easy to see why so many people have fallen in love with it. So if you’re blessed with a deep voice and looking for the perfect song to showcase it, this might be it.

3. Hurt – Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash covered this song originally written by Trent Reznor from Nine Inch Nails. His calm bass-baritone voice brought emotion to the lyrics as well as much critical and popular acclaim to the rendition.

The song features Johnny’s vocal range of F2–G3, making it easy to sing along to. The song doesn’t strain the vocal cords, making it a good choice for casual singing or as a warm-up song.

4. Ol’ Man River – Paul Robeson

This show tune was originally written by Oscar Hammerstein II. The song has various versions with faster tempos and distinct vocals. Paul Robeson’s version is one of the most notable, as his rich bass voice provided a captivating performance of the song. The song’s vocal range is between G3–E5, which is easy to sing along with.

5. Are You Lonesome Tonight – Elvis Presley

This cover by Elvis Presley was originally written by Roy Turk and Lou Handman. The melancholy song features slight echoes to Elvis’ voice, and the soft, vulnerable lyrics add to the luminous feel. The instruments in the song are subtle, which makes the singer’s voice distinctly stand out during a performance.

6. “Lips Of An Angel” by Hinder

This rock ballad became an instant hit thanks to its emotive lyrics and dramatic instrumentation. While Hinder’s original rendition features a gritty vocal performance, a deep voice can bring an alternative depth and sincerity to the song. Imagine adding a layer of emotional complexity to the already poignant story of late-night calls and complicated relationships.

7. Never Gonna Give You Up – Rick Astley

This worldwide number-one hit was written by Stock Aitken Waterman and features the distinct rich voice of Rick Astley combined with classical dance and pop music.

The international success of the song, especially due to the internet meme known as “rickrolling,” has made the beat extremely recognizable. The vocal range of G3–G4 focuses on one octave, making the song easy to sing along throughout.

8. Don’t Be Cruel – Elvis Presley

This rock and roll song was written by Otis Blackwell and recorded by Elvis Presley in his signature baritone voice with a hillbilly singing style. The instrumental beats in the song are groovy and make the song fun to synchronize with a low voice.

9. “Oops!…I Did It Again” by Britney Spears

Now, you might be wondering how a Britney Spears pop classic fits into this list, but hear us out. “Oops!…I Did It Again” is so ingrained in pop culture that it’s ripe for reimagining. Imagine those lower notes resonating during the chorus or the bridge—it’s an entirely different ballgame that will make listeners hear the song in a whole new way.

10. The Unforgiven 2 – Metallica

The heavy metal band Metallica wrote and performed this power ballad with James Hetfield’s distinct and powerful voice. The song is part of a trilogy, along with “The Unforgiven” and “The Unforgiven III,” and features a story that continues throughout the songs. The deep lyrics are contrasted with soft and melodic verses and a heavier chorus.

11. “Happier Than Ever” by Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish’s “Happier Than Ever” is a rollercoaster of emotions that gradually builds from a whisper to a roar. A deep voice can magnify this transition, starting with a subtle, smoky tone that bursts into a rich, full-bodied climax.

The song’s themes of disillusionment and emotional upheaval can feel even more intimate and weighted when sung in a lower register, adding another layer of complexity to an already nuanced track.

12. “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Simple Man” is a classic that has stood the test of time. With its soul-stirring lyrics about life wisdom passed down from a mother to her son, this song allows a deep voice to tap into the roots of American southern rock and blues.

The melody is designed in such a way that it can benefit greatly from the added gravitas of a lower vocal register. A deep voice can accentuate the song’s raw emotion and timeless message, making it resonate on a profoundly personal level.

13. “Say Something” by A Great Big World

A Great Big World’s “Say Something” is essentially a plea wrapped in a haunting melody. The original is already deep in sentiment and emotion. It’s a song that demands an emotional range, making it perfect for a deep voice that can add an additional layer of urgency and sincerity. The track provides room to explore dynamics, from a near-whisper to a soul-stirring crescendo.

14. Purple Haze – The Jimi Hendrix Experience

Known as one of the greatest guitar songs, this song was written and performed by Jimi Hendrix and contains his expressive and distinctive voice. The song itself features a mix of Jimi’s iconic guitar playing to create a memorable psychedelic rock melody. The emotional intensity of Jimi’s voice makes the song fun to sing along to.

15. “Closer” by The Chainsmokers

Although “Closer” by The Chainsmokers is a modern electronic-pop hit, it can be a delightful playground for a deep voice. The song’s duet nature opens the door for a fascinating contrast between vocal registers. Imagine the rich tones of a deep voice paired with the lighter, ethereal tones of the song’s other vocal lines. This juxtaposition can breathe new life into the song’s narrative about past love and nostalgic memories.

16. Ain’t No Sunshine – Bill Withers

“Ain’t No Sunshine” is a song written by Bill Withers and regarded as his breakthrough hit single. The song has an R&B, soul, and blues musical style, which is contrasted with the smooth baritone vocals of Bill. The instruments in the song blend well with the vocals, which helps to make the vocals stand out. The bass-baritone vocal range of E4–G5 makes the song comfortable to sing.

17. “Jar Of Hearts” by Christina Perri

Christina Perri’s “Jar Of Hearts” is already a poignant narrative about love and loss. However, it could achieve a different form of emotional resonance when performed by someone with a deep voice. The song’s mellow tempo and wistful lyrics can serve as an effective canvas for a voice that can convey vulnerability with every low note, giving the melody a textured richness that only deepens its emotional impact.

18. Jeremy – Pearl Jam

Jeremy was written by Eddie Vedder and is sung in his intense and raw deep voice. The song did not initially gain popularity until its music video was released. The soulful voice is contrasted with chilling and dark lyrics. The compelling song features a harmonic guitar and strong drums with which vocals have to be matched.

19. Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen

“Crazy Little Thing Called Love” is a song written by the lead vocalist of Queen, Freddie Mercury. Freddie’s magical voice brings an exciting feel to the song. The rockabilly style of the song works well with the distinct guitar playing and catchy lyrics, which are sung in a baritone vocal range.

Featuring a vocal range of D4–F#5, the fun tune is great to sing along with for singers with deep voices.

20. “Love Yourself” by Justin Bieber

While Justin Bieber’s pop anthem “Love Yourself” initially caters to a more youthful and light vocal range, its essence can undergo a metamorphosis when tackled by a deep voice.

The song’s acoustic background and message of self-empowerment can take on a seasoned, sage-like quality when sung in a low, resonant vocal style. Rather than being a tale of youthful disdain, it transforms into a wise admonition on self-worth.

21. “Royals” by Lorde

Lorde’s “Royals” is practically a cultural landmark at this point. Although the original features her unique, breathy voice, a deep vocal rendition can give it a fresh identity. The song’s minimalist beat and societal critiques can gain new dimensions when delivered in a voice imbued with gravity and depth, lending a whole new interpretation to the term ‘royal.’

22. “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” by Elton John

Made famous by both Elton John and its inclusion in Disney’s “The Lion King,” this song carries a universal message of love and destiny. While it might not immediately strike you as a deep-voice-friendly song, “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” has the kind of emotive lyricism and melodic nuance that can be enriched by a lower vocal register.

23. “Wherever You Will Go” by The Calling

Originally sung in a baritone register, “Wherever You Will Go” by The Calling becomes a natural playground for deep voices. Its heartfelt lyrics about enduring love and the uncertainties that come with it gain an additional layer of depth when rendered in a lower vocal range. The acoustic elements of the song can also complement the natural reverberation that comes with a deep voice, making it an engaging and emotionally gripping performance.

24. “(They Long to Be) Close to You” by Carpenters

This Carpenters classic, dripping with 1970s sentimentality, may initially appear tailored for Karen Carpenter’s tender alto voice. However, its universal theme of love and yearning can find new dimensions when tackled by a deep voice.

With its lush orchestral backdrop and straightforward melody, a low vocal range can infuse the song with a timeless quality, making it resonate across different musical tastes and generations.

25. “Baby One More Time” by Britney Spears

Britney Spears’ “Baby One More Time” might seem like an unconventional choice for deep voices, but that’s precisely what makes it interesting. This ’90s classic is ripe for reimagining.

With its catchy hook and emotive lyrics about lost love, a deep voice can transform it from a teen pop anthem into something more mature, soulful, and introspective. The juxtaposition of a deep vocal register with the song’s original youthful energy can offer listeners a fresh, engaging auditory experience.

26. “Rumour Has It” by Adele

Adele’s “Rumour Has It” is a powerhouse of vocal prowess and musicality, infused with elements of soul and blues. While Adele’s original version is stunning in its own right, a deep voice can put an exciting spin on it.

A lower register could add an additional layer of sass and intensity, augmenting the song’s themes of heartbreak and rumor-mongering. The sturdy beat and strong rhythm also provide an ideal framework for deeper voices to experiment with emotional nuance and dynamic range.

27. “White Wedding” by Billy Idol

Billy Idol’s “White Wedding” is a rock anthem that captivated the ’80s with its rebellious spirit. Its driving guitar lines and strong beats are memorable, but a deep voice could take this classic to a whole new level.

The song’s defiant and unconventional take on love and marriage would benefit from the added complexity that a lower vocal register brings. Imagine delivering lines like “It’s a nice day to start again” with the kind of gravitas that only a deep voice can achieve.

28. “Let Her Go” by Passenger

Known for its poignant lyrics and emotional depth, “Let Her Go” is a song that naturally aligns with a deep voice. Its folk influences offer a grounded sonic landscape that works perfectly when complemented by a resonant vocal. Passenger’s original version brings in a folk-based, almost poetic approach, and a deeper vocal can stretch this aesthetic to a soulful, earthy terrain.

29. “Photograph” by Ed Sheeran

“Photograph” is a song that sits well in the lower vocal registers. Known for its sincere lyrics and emotive melodies, the track allows a deep voice to fully encapsulate the heartfelt sentiment behind the song. The acoustic guitar arrangement can provide a harmonious backdrop for a deeper vocal range, emphasizing the heartfelt nostalgia in lines like, “We keep this love in a photograph.

30. “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan’s timeless classic “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door” is another track that pairs beautifully with a deep vocal range. The song’s universal themes of mortality and transcendence are well-served by the gravitas of a low voice. The simplicity of the instrumentation, primarily acoustic guitar and harmonica, provides a complementary setting for a deep voice.

Summary

People with deep baritone voices can sing songs in many forms. They can transpose songs from high-voiced singers, sing gospels, operas, soul and even jazz. The distinct range of the voice means singers can add a unique spin to some of their favorite songs.

We hope you enjoyed our list containing songs of different genres and styles!