Nothing hits the eardrums quite like an exquisite, succinct vocal harmony. This list is far from exhaustive, but we think these four bands had some of the best vocal harmonies in the history of pop and rock music. Let’s take a look, shall we?
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1. ABBA
The four members of ABBA were already pretty well-read musicians before their quartet kicked off in Sweden (and internationally). Björn Ulvaeus, in particular, was no stranger to vocal harmonies. He sang with his previous band The Hootenanny Singers often.
That being said, Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad were definitely ABBA’s best vocalists. Their voices worked together beautifully, adding brightness, depth, and consistency to the band’s songs.
2. The Beatles
At least three of the four Beatles (we’ll let you work out which ones) were quite talented as singer/songwriters within and outside of the band. Their harmonies aren’t exactly what they are known for; but that doesn’t mean their ability to harmonize with each other, both in-person and separately through some expert mixing, was something to scoff at. The Fab Four were really lovely during their live performance years, even if you couldn’t hear them that well over the screaming.
3. The Temptations
Rock bands aside, there are a few pop acts out there with enough soul and funk in their vocals alone to entice listeners for generations. The Temptations are one of the very best vocal groups that could harmonize like no other. We’d say they’re simply one of the best examples of vocal harmonies in the 20th century.
Otis Williams, David Ruffin, Melvin Franklin, Eddie Kendricks, and Paul Williams sounded absolutely stunning together in their heyday. Hits like “My Girl” and “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone” are so deeply loved decades after their release because of the unique blend of harmonies that the “classic” lineup could pull off.
4. Queen
Freddie Mercury was an incredible lead vocalist on his own. That being said, his voice really shined when harmonizing with Roger Taylor and Brian May. As a trio of singers, their ability to harmonize was really special. Taylor, in particular, boasted a high range that definitely did the band a favor. Few rock bands could intricately weave soundscapes with just their voices the way Queen did.
Photo by Fin Costello
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