When a vocalist sings a high note, it can add emotion and excitement to a song. It’s not easy to belt out high notes, and it requires technique and skill, along with the ability to make it fit with the other parts of the song. Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, R&B, or any other music style, songs with high notes often have a more dramatic feel.
We’ve selected a wide range of songs that prominently feature high notes from all genres and eras of popular music. We also have a Spotify playlist with all of the songs covered below at the bottom of the page.
Table of Contents
1. Breathin’ by Ariana Grande
| Genre | Dance-Pop |
| Year Released | 2018 |
| Album | Sweetener |
Ariana Grande is undeniably one of the most talented vocalists in pop music today. The American singer has showcased her huge vocal range in many of her songs and live performances, but the one that stands out the most is her 2018 track “Breathin.” This song was included on her album Sweetener and featured a stunning vocal performance that perfectly complements the instrumental.
2. Take On Me by A-ha
| Genre | Synth-Pop, New-Wave |
| Year Released | 1985 |
| Album | Hunting High and Low |
“Take On Me” is a synth-pop classic by the Norwegian band A-ha. Released in 1985 when synth-pop was in its heyday, the song became a global hit and remains popular today.
In the chorus, Morten Harken sings an E5 note, which is very high for a male pop singer. The vocals soar above the drums, bass, and synthesizer melody, with Harket’s powerful falsetto line becoming an iconic singalong moment in the song.
3. Love On Top by Beyonce
| Genre | R&B |
| Year Released | 2011 |
| Album | 4 |
American pop icon Beyoncé began her career as a member of the R&B trio Destiny’s Child and showcased her incredible vocal talents from an early age. After embarking on a successful solo career, she released the album 4 in 2011, which included the standout track, “Love on Top.”
“Love on Top” is undoubtedly one of the best vocal performances you’ll hear from Beyoncé. Towards the end of the track, there are several key changes, and the singer transposes the vocal melody until she eventually belts out a B5!
4. Man in The Mirror by Michael Jackson
| Genre | Pop |
| Year Released | 1988 |
| Album | Bad |
Michael Jackson had an incredible vocal range, which was evident right from the beginning of his career as a child performing with his brothers in the Jackson 5. As his voice changed throughout the years, Jackson gained a more raspy, powerful tone, but his ability to hit the high notes remained, as is proven in the 1988 classic song, “Man in the Mirror.”
In this pop ballad, Jackson hits a C5 in full voice. This is during the key change at the end of the song. The track was written by Glen Ballard and Siedah Gallard, the latter who recorded a demo which is well worth listening to also.
5. I Believe in a Thing Called Love by The Darkness
| Genre | Hard Rock |
| Year Released | 2003 |
| Album | Permission to Land |
Lead singer of The Darkness, Justin Hawkins, is an exceptionally talented guitarist and singer. With his operatic vocal style and extensive range, he reached as high as a G#5 in the 2003 hit single, “I Believe in a Thing Called Love.”
The British hard rock band often used classical music techniques when composing their songs, with many critics comparing them to Queen who of course also had a frontman who could belt out the high notes!
6. Back In Black by AC/DC
| Genre | Hard Rock |
| Year Released | 1980 |
| Album | Back in Black |
“Back In Black,” from the album of the same name, is one of AC/DC’s most iconic tracks. From the opening guitar riff to the trademark high-pitched vocals, this song is a hard rock classic. Vocalist Brian Johnson, who has recently replaced the late Bon Scott, sings in a scratchy falsetto tone that compliments the lower pitches of the bass and electric guitars.
7. Oh! Darling by The Beatles
| Genre | Hard Rock, Rock, and Roll |
| Year Released | 1969 |
| Album | Abbey Road |
The Beatles were at the peak of their creative powers in 1969 when they released the legendary album Abbey Road. Named after the London studio where it was recorded, the album is a masterpiece in songwriting, arrangement, and musical performance.
Paul McCartney wrote the song “Oh! Darling” in the sessions leading up to the album’s recording, but he felt that the demos didn’t have the right vocal sound. Desiring a more gritty tone, he recorded a take each day for weeks until his voice was so worn out that it matched the gritty sound he wanted for the song. McCartney reaches a D4 in the song, which is made all the more impressive by the fact he hits it in full voice rather than falsetto!
8. I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston
| Genre | Pop, Soul |
| Year Released | 1992 |
| Album | The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album |
In Whitney Houston’s cover of country icon Dolly Parton’s song “I Will Always Love You,” the late American singer hits many incredibly high notes. Renowned for her versatile and soulful voice, Houston had the ability to control the tone of her high notes like none other. The highest note she sings in this classic ballad is an E5 in her head voice, which is very impressive!
9. No One by Alicia Keys
| Genre | R&B |
| Year Released | 2007 |
| Album | As I Am |
“No One” is an R&B track by talented singer-songwriter Alicia Keys. Keys, who signed her first record deal at the age of just 15, is a highly talented pianist and singer. She’s capable of belting out some pretty high notes, as you can hear towards the end of this single from her album As I Am. The track would go on to be one of Keys’ best-selling singles, earning her multiple Grammy awards. I really enjoy listening to this song and it’s one of my favorite songs with high notes of all time.
10. Don’t Feel Like Dancing by Scissor Sisters
| Genre | Pop |
| Year Released | 2006 |
| Album | Ta-Dah |
American pop group, Scissor Sisters, are known for their catchy melodies and high-pitched vocals. The 2006 hit “I Don’t Feel Like Dancing” was written in collaboration with pop legend Elton John, who played the piano on the recording. With its mostly falsetto vocal style, this track is a great choice if you enjoy high-pitched singing.
11. How Deep Is Your Love by the Bee Gees
| Genre | Soft Rock |
| Year Released | 1977 |
| Album | Saturday Night Fever |
Consisting of three brothers – Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, the Bee Gees were pioneers of disco music. In 1977, the group released the album Saturday Night Fever to widespread critical acclaim, which included the expertly crafted pop song “How Deep is Your Love.”
The Bee Gees’ trademark vocal style was high-pitched and softly sung, with Barry often taking the lead and his two brothers providing complex backing harmonies. “How Deep is Your Love” includes a high note of G4, which links the chorus to the verse.
12. I Feel it Coming by The Weeknd
| Genre | Disco-Pop |
| Year Released | 2016 |
| Album | Starboy |
Canadian singer The Weeknd has a vocal style that is often compared to one of his biggest influences, the late Michael Jackson. In the 2016 song “i Feel it Coming” from his hit album Starboy, the singer hits several high notes that prove he’s got an impressive range. This song was produced by dance music legends Daft Punk and was released as a single from the album.
13. Wuthering Heights by Kate Bush
| Genre | Art Pop |
| Year Released | 1977 |
| Album | The Kick Inside |
In “Wuthering Heights,” English artist Kate Bush hits a staggering F#5 note. Renowned for her complex and original compositions, Bush often sings in her higher registers, giving her music a unique and distinctive sound. This song is one of her best-known singles and was written by Bush alone, making her the first female artist to write a number 1 single in the UK without co-writing a song with another person.
14. Somebody That I Used to Know by Gotye
| Genre | Art Pop |
| Year Released | 2011 |
| Album | Making Mirrors |
One of the best-known protest songs of all time, “Zombie,” was written about the tragic bombings that occurred in 1993 in Warrington, England. Deviating from The Cranberries’ usual folky style, this song incorporated heavier elements to give it a grunge sound that suited to gritty, raw lyrics. It reached the number one spot in her native UK and many other countries worldwide.
15. It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World by James Brown
| Genre | Soul |
| Year Released | 1966 |
| Album | It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World |
Funk and soul icon James Brown released a vast back catalog of music in his life, with a career spanning over fifty years. He is remembered as a brilliant performer and for his impeccable singing talents. Often adlibbing lyrics, Brown could belt out high notes while maintaining the soulful sound of his voice, as is evident from the 1966 classic single “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World.” This song also features drums from Bernard “Pretty” Purdie, who is famous for creating the “Purdie Shuffle” drum groove.
16. Proud Mary by Ike & Tina Turner
| Genre | Funk Rock, Soul |
| Year Released | 1971 |
| Album | Workin’ Together |
Originally written and released by Creedence Clearwater Revival in 1968, “Proud Mary” was covered by Ike & Tina Turner in 1971. Their version features some beautiful vocals from Tina Turner, who shows that she can hit the high notes with ease. It’s got a funky, tight sound that retains the feel of the original version.
17. Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley
| Genre | Folk, Alternative Rock |
| Year Released | 2007 |
| Album | Grace |
“Hallelujah” is a song that was originally written by Canadian singer Leonard Cohen. Many covers have been made of the song, but the one that stands out is by Jeff Buckley, the son of folk singer Tim Buckley. In this version, Buckley lays down an emotional vocal performance demonstrating expert control and technique. He’s able to ascend up to high notes in his head voice effortlessly and certainly does the original version justice.
18. Survival by Muse
| Genre | Rock |
| Year Released | 2012 |
| Album | The 2nd Law |
Matt Bellamy, singer, and guitarist of British three-piece rock band Muse, is known for his operatic vocal range. The song “Survival” features one of the highest notes he’s ever recorded, with an A♭5 being blasted out in the chorus. This track was written originally for the 2012 London Olympics, but this didn’t materialize, and instead, Muse included it on their album, The 2nd Law.
19. Without You by Harry Nilson
| Genre | Pop, Soft Rock |
| Year Released | 1971 |
| Album | Nilsson Schmilsson |
Many people wrongly believe that American singer Harry Nilsson was the original writer of the song “Without You,” but in actual fact, it was penned by the rock band Badfinger. Nevertheless, Nilsson’s emotional version became very popular, and it features some incredibly high notes, particularly in the chorus harmonies towards the end of the track. American singer Mariah Carey, who also features in our list, released another cover of the song in 1994, which also includes some very high notes.
20. Chandelier by Sia
| Genre | Electropop |
| Year Released | 2014 |
| Album | 1000 Forms of Fear |
Pop singer Sia has written and performed on many songs as a featured artist, but 2014 worldwide hit “Chandelier” was released under her name only. The track’s powerful and catchy chorus includes some pretty high notes, with Sia showing that she can belt them out effortlessly. Written in collaboration with producer Jesse Shatkin, this song won many accolades and awards.
21. (Take Another) Piece of My Heart by the Holding Company and Janis Joplin
| Genre | Psychedelic Rock |
| Year Released | 1968 |
| Album | Cheap Thrills |
Despite her untimely death at the age of 27, Janis Joplin left behind a legacy in music that lives on today. The talented singer stood out in the late 1960s with her raspy, soulful vocals, and her cover of the song “Piece of My Heart,” released with her band The Holding Company, is one of the best examples of her ability to sing high notes.
Popular Related Article: Songs With Good Beat Drops
22. Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) by Marvin Gaye
| Genre | Soul, Funk |
| Year Released | 1971 |
| Album | What’s Going On |
This Marvin Gaye classic is written about the struggles of growing up in poor areas of America. It has a bluesy feel, with Gaye’s soulful vocals gliding over the instrumental. Written by Gaye with help from James Nyx Jr., the song would be featured on the successful album, What’s Going On, released in 1971. There are several high notes sung throughout, notably in the final chorus.
23. Someone Like You by Adele
| Genre | Pop |
| Year Released | 2011 |
| Album | 21 |
British singer-songwriter Adele is one of the biggest-selling artists of all time, thanks largely due to the success of her second album, 21. This album spawned several hits, but one of the best tracks is the heartwrenching breakup song “Someone Like You.” Consisting solely of Adele’s vocals and a piano, the track has an intimate feel that allows you to appreciate the beautiful singing. In the song, Adele hits an E5 in her falsetto range.
24. Don’t Look Back in Anger by Oasis
| Genre | Britpop, Rock |
| Year Released | 1996 |
| Album | (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? |
After the release of their hugely successful debut album Definitely, Maybe, British rock band Oasis were tasked with following it with something equally as special. They managed to do this with the classic 1996 L.P., (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?
One of the tracks that reached number one in the UK singles charts from the album was the classic “Don’t look Back in Anger.” Unlike most Oasis songs, the lead vocals were sung by Noel Gallagher over his brother Liam. Noel hits a soaring high note in the chorus when he sings the lines “So Sally can wait” and “My Soul slides away.”
25. I Get The Sweetest Feeling by Jackie Wilson
| Genre | Pop, Soul |
| Year Released | 1968 |
| Album | I Get The The Sweetest Feeling |
American soul legend Jackie Wilson has a versatile voice and was renowned for his energetic live performances. The 1968 track “I Get The The Sweetest Feeling” is one of his most famous songs, and in it, he shows off his extensive vocal range. The track was produced by Carl Davis and released on the iconic label Brunswick Records.
26. Since U Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson
| Genre | Pop Rock |
| Year Released | 2004 |
| Album | Breakaway |
Kelly Clarkson used the success she achieved in American Idol to propel her to be one of the best-known pop artists in recent times. Her second album, Breakaway, included the worldwide hit single “Since U Been Gone,” released in the fall of 2004. The song has been included on many lists of the best pop songs of all time, and during it, Clarkson manages to sing as high as a G5! This is one of the most famous songs about missing someone of all time.
27. Angels by Robbie Williams
| Genre | Pop |
| Year Released | 1997 |
| Album | Life thru a Lens |
Despite arguably being pop singer Robbie Williams’ best-known song, “Angels” never reached the top spot on the UK singles charts, making it one of the most famous number 2 singles ever. This track, written in collaboration with prolific songwriter Guy Chambers, is an emotional ballad that includes softly sung verses and an epic chorus in which Williams powerfully blasts out several high notes.
28. Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey
| Genre | Rock |
| Year Released | 1981 |
| Album | Escape |
Steve Perry, the lead singer of the American band Journey, is renowned for having one of the largest vocal ranges of any male rock singer. The classic 1981 song, “Don’t Stop Believin” shows off Perry’s vocal range on multiple occasions. This song charted in many countries around the world and would enjoy another surge in popularity when the cast of the T.V. show Glee covered it in 2009.
29. With a Little Help From My Friends by Joe Cocker
| Genre | Hard Rock |
| Year Released | 1968 |
| Album | With a Little Help From My Friends |
Most people are familiar with the Ringo Starr-sung version of The Beatles’ song “With a Little Help From My Friends.” However, in 1968, fellow Englishman Joe Cocker covered the track in his signature soulful style. The vocal performance by Cocker is incredibly powerful, and there’s a brilliant live version at Woodstock Festival, which is equally as impressive as the recording and proves that he could hit the high notes onstage or in the studio.
30. Getaway Car by Taylor Swift
| Genre | Synth-Pop |
| Year Released | 2018 |
| Album | Reputation |
Taylor Swift is one of America’s biggest pop stars, songwriters, and artists. However, she doesn’t often get the credit that she deserves for her vocal talents. In the 2018 synth-heavy pop song, “Getaway Car,” Swift shows that she can hit a D5 with ease. The song was featured on the critically acclaimed album Reputation.
31. Somebody to Love by Queen
| Genre | Pop, Rock |
| Year Released | 1976 |
| Album | A Day at the Races |
Queen singer Freddie Mercury had one of the most powerful voices in rock history – and he needed to in order to keep up with the huge sound of the other band members. “Somebody to Love” is a ballad with a bluesy sound, and Mercury reaches a high note of A♭5 in his falsetto voice. It’s a highly impressive vocal performance and makes this a standout song from the 1976 album, A Day at the Races.
32. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough by Michael Jackson
| Genre | Disco, Funk |
| Year Released | 1979 |
| Album | Off the Wall |
Off the Wall came before Michael Jackson’s best-known albums, like Thriller or Bad, but it includes some excellent funk and disco compositions. Produced by Quincy Jones, “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” includes several notes sung in the upper registers of Jackson’s extensive vocal range, reaching as high as B5. The track opens the album and is the first song to feature Jackson’s signature falsetto vocal improvisations.
33. When I Was Your Man by Bruno Mars
| Genre | Pop |
| Year Released | 2013 |
| Album | Unorthodox Jukebox |
American singer-songwriter Bruno Mars has constantly shown that he is a versatile artist, switching up his musical styles effortlessly. In 2013, he released the piano and vocal ballad “When I Was Your Man.” This expertly crafted song is about regretting not doing things differently after a breakup, and Mars sings the high notes with conviction.
34. Stairway To Heaven by Led Zeppelin
| Genre | Progressive Rock |
| Year Released | 1971 |
| Album | Led Zeppelin IV |
“Stairway to Heaven” is notable for its melodic guitar part, pounding drums, and excellent vocal delivery by Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant. The singer reaches an E5 in the second half of this iconic song, which would later leave the band locked into legal disputes over whether they stole the original idea from US psychedelic rock band Spirit, which they ultimately won.
35. Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Your’s by Stevie Wonder
| Genre | Soul |
| Year Released | 1970 |
| Album | Signed, Sealed & Delivered |
“Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” was released when soul legend Stevie Wonder was just 20 years old. It was produced entirely by Wonder and reached the top 10 of the US Billboard Hot 100. This 1970 single has a funky beat and catchy guitar licks and allowed Wonder to show off his vocal range with the screamed falsetto note that leads into the first verse.
36. Unchained Melody by The Righteous Brothers
| Genre | Blue-eyed soul |
| Year Released | 1965 |
| Album | Just Once in My Life |
After being recorded by several artists, “Unchained Melody” was released by the pop duo The Righteous Brothers in 1965. The song’s lead vocal, which was sung by Bobby Hatfield, reaches some pretty high notes. Later pressings of the track were produced by Phil Spector, who would eventually go on to produce the likes of John Lennon and The Beach Boys.
Also Read: Popular Bass Drop Songs That Are Totally Epic
37. We Are The Champions by Queen
| Genre | Arena Rock |
| Year Released | 1977 |
| Album | News of the World |
With an impressive vocal range stretching from G3-C5, “We Are the Champions” is another Queen song that allows Freddie Mercury to steal the show. Combining dramatic lyrics with call-and-response-style backing harmonies, this is a masterpiece in rock songwriting. Written by Mercury, it is an extremely catchy track that has continued to be popular for over forty years since it was released.
38. Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys
| Genre | R&B |
| Year Released | 2012 |
| Album | Girl on Fire |
In 2012, American singer Alicia Keys released the single “Girl on Fire” from her eponymous album. In this track, Keys hits a high note of E5. The song was written after Keys’ son was born, and the lyrics are about feeling confident and hopeful for the future. If you’re looking for songs with high notes sung by a female this is definitely a song we recommend adding to your playlist.
39. Africa by Toto
| Genre | Pop, Rock |
| Year Released | 1982 |
| Album | Toto IV |
American rock band Toto released the single “Africa” in 1981 as the final track from their album Toto IV. This song is notable for its excellent production, well-crafted lyrics, and high-pitched vocal harmonies. It became the band’s only single to reach number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 Chart, and the music video was directed by industry legend Steve Barron, also responsible for directing the likes of “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson and “Summer of ’69” by Bryan Adams.
40. Most Beautiful Girl in the World by Prince
| Genre | R&B, Soul |
| Year Released | 1994 |
| Album | The Gold Experience |
Originally released as a standalone single, “Most Beautiful Girl in the World” would later be included on the album, The Gold Experience. Blending elements of ’70s soul with the sound of ’90s pop music. This track was typically innovative and catchy. Prince’s vast vocal range allows him to hit the high notes in this song with ease.
41. Thinkin’ Bout You by Frank Ocean
| Genre | R&B |
| Year Released | 2011 |
| Album | Channel Orange |
Frank Ocean’s debut studio album Channel Orange earned the American artist many accolades, thanks to songs like “Think ‘Bout You.” With its dreamy combination of R&B and hip-hop, the beat provides the perfect backdrop for Ocean’s smooth vocals. In the chorus, he managed to reach a G5 note in his falsetto voice.
42. Jolene by Dolly Parton
| Genre | Country |
| Year Released | 1973 |
| Album | Jolene |
Country icon Dolly Parton is well known for her songwriting talents, but her vocal abilities have also contributed largely to her long and decorated career. The 1973 classic “Jolene” is written about being paranoid that another woman was going to steal her man, and the emotion of the song really comes through when Parton belts out the high notes.
43. Dreams by Fleetwood Mac
| Genre | Soft Rock |
| Year Released | 1976 |
| Album | Rumours |
Fleetwood Mac’s second single from their iconic eleventh studio album is titled “Dreams,” and it was written by lead singer Stevie Nicks, who shows off her high vocal range. “Dreams” is one of the standout songs from the Rumours album. It has a soft rock style, with elements of disco and soul also apparent in the production and instrumentation. Nicks had since stated that when she first showed the song to the band, they weren’t overly keen on recording it, but thankfully she was able to persuade them. This song has been extremely popular since its release and it even reached rank 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
44. Royals by Lorde
| Genre | Pop |
| Year Released | 2013 |
| Album | Pure Heroine |
In 2012, a young artist from New Zealand named Lorde wrote and recorded the single “Royals.” The track was quickly picked up by radio stations all over the world, and within a short time, it became a global hit. In the song, Lorde’s vocals range from an F♯3 to F♯5, with the highest notes coming in the middle eight sections.
Lorde was only sixteen at the time “Royals” was released. It became the best-selling song by a female artist in 2013 and established Lorde as one of the most exciting artists to come out of New Zealand for a long time.
45. All I Want For Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey
| Genre | Pop |
| Year Released | 1994 |
| Album | Merry Christmas |
American singer Mariah Carey has a huge vocal range, as is evident in her classic festive song, “All I Want for Christmas is You.” In the song, Carey manages to hit an A5, which is incredibly difficult for most singers. This upbeat number features lyrics that dismiss the materialistic aspect of Christmas and rather focus on wanting to spend it with a loved one. It continues to be one of the most famous Christmas songs almost three decades after its release.
46. Bring it On Home to Me by Sam Cooke
| Genre | R&B, Soul |
| Year Released | 1962 |
| Album | The Best of Sam Cooke |
Sam Cooke is widely regarded as one of America’s greatest soul singers. Additionally, he was an excellent songwriter, penning classics like “Twistin’ the Night Away,” “You Send Me,” and this 1962 track, “Bring it On Home to Me.” Cooke is joined by backing vocalist Lou Rawls, who sings a lower harmony that complements the smooth lead vocals perfectly. In this song, you can hear how well Sam Cooke can control his high notes.
47. (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman by Aretha Franklin
| Genre | Soul |
| Year Released | 1967 |
| Album | Lady Soul |
Written by Carole King in collaboration with Gerry Goffin and Jerry Wexler, Aretha Franklin’s 1967 singe “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” became one of the soul icon’s signature songs. In the song, Franklin hits several impressive high notes, including a G5 towards the end of the track. King would later record a version for his stripped-back album, Tapestry.
48. Welcome to The Jungle by Guns N’ Roses
| Genre | Metal |
| Year Released | 1987 |
| Album | Appetite for Destruction |
Guns N’ Roses’s 1987 single “Welcome to The Jungle” features crashing drums, distorted guitar riffs, and high-pitched, raspy vocals from frontman Axel Rose. This song was released on the band’s debut album, Appetite for Destruction, and the lyrics were inspired by Rose’s trip to Seattle to visit a friend and the differences between that city and his native L.A.
49. Imagine by Ariana Grande
| Genre | R&B |
| Year Released | 2018 |
| Album | Thank U, Next |
Ariana Grande’s extensive vocal range is on full display in the 2018 song “Imagine.” She uses a technique known as “whistle notes” to reach pitches up to C7, which requires a lot of control
and skill. This song blends elements of R&B with trap percussion., and it is one of the standout compositions on the album Thank U, Next.
50. Emotions by Mariah Carey
| Genre | R&B |
| Year Released | 1991 |
| Album | Emotions |
Released on her second studio album of the same name, “Emotions” is an R&B ballad that allowed the singer to show off her ability to belt out the high notes. Carey wrote the song along with two other co-writers, and it was praised by critics, mainly for the stunning vocal performance.
51. When We Were Young by Adele
| Genre | Pop |
| Year Released | 2016 |
| Album | 25 |
Released as a single from British singer Adele’s third album, 25, “When We Were Young” is a beautifully produced and crafted pop song that is centered on the theme of nostalgia and longing for things of the past. In typical Adele style, she transitions effortlessly between her full voice and falsetto range, hitting some high notes in the process.
52. The Wonder of You by Elvis Presley
| Genre | Soft Rock, Pop |
| Year Released | 1970 |
| Album | On Stage |
With its epic string arrangement, soaring vocal melody, and uplifting chorus, “The Wonder of You” is an Elvis Presley classic. Released in 1970, this song showed that Elvis could still belt out the high notes and that his signature low-pitched crooning vocal style remained. The high notes in this song may not be as impressive as some of the other tracks in this list, but for someone with a lower vocal range, it’s a great challenge.
53. Why Don’t We Do It in the Road by The Beatles
| Genre | Hard Rock |
| Year Released | 1968 |
| Album | The White Album |
Written and sung by Paul McCartney, “Why Don’t We Do it in The Road” is a short rock song that involves a repeating riff and vocal line. McCartney sings passionately and shows off his ability to belt out high notes in a rough, gritty style. The piano plays a simple, consistent chord pattern that drives the song forwards.
54. Endless Love by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie
| Genre | R&B |
| Year Released | 1981 |
| Album | Endless Love: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack |
American R&B iconic Lionel Richie and Diana Ross released their duet “Endless Love” in 1981. Written by Richie, the song was released on the legendary Motown record label. In the song, Ross hits some very high notes, and Richie’s smooth vocal harmonies also stand out. The song would eventually be covered by Mariah Carey and Luther Vandross, a version that also includes high notes.
55. Greatest Love of All by Whitney Houston
| Genre | R&B, Soul |
| Year Released | 1986 |
| Album | Whitney Houston |
Whitney Houston is one of the most talented vocal talents in pop music history, and the song “Greatest Love of All” proves this. Before the days of autotune, singers like Houston had to rely on pure talent to record their music. The song includes an F#5 note, which most singers would find very difficult to reach.
56. Knights of Cydonia by Muse
| Genre | Alternative Rock |
| Year Released | 2006 |
| Album | Black Holes and Revelations |
The final song on Muse’s 2006 album Black Holes and Revelations, “Knights of Cydonia,” is one of the British band’s best tracks. With a classic rock tone, it explores apocalyptic themes and features a powerful vocal performance from lead singer Matt Bellamy.
57. Redbone by Childish Gamino
| Genre | R&B |
| Year Released | 2016 |
| Album | Awaken, My Love! |
Donald Glover, who released music under the name Childish Gambino, is also a highly successful actor and producer. In 2016, he released the album Awaken, My Love! Which included the hit single “Redbone.” This song was almost entirely written and recorded in one night, and it quickly became one of Childish Gambino’s most popular songs. A departure from his usual style of rapping, Glover hits several impressive high notes in the song.
58. Don’t Let Me Down by The Beatles
| Genre | Rock, Blues |
| Year Released | 1969 |
| Album | Let It Be… Naked |
Performed by The Beatles on their infamous rooftop concert, “Don’t Let Me Down” is a song written and sung predominantly by John Lennon. In the keyboard solo, played by Billy Preston, Lennon hits some pretty high notes in his falsetto range. This is without a doubt one of the most famous songs with really high notes ever written.
59. Gold Dust Woman by Fleetwood Mac
| Genre | Rock |
| Year Released | 1977 |
| Album | Rumours |
“Gold Dust Woman” is one of the most underrated Fleetwood Mac songs, in my opinion. Singers Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham combine to sing powerful vocals that complement the Rhodes piano and the prominent guitars effortlessly, and there are many high notes performed throughout the track.
60. Halo by Beyonce
| Genre | Pop, R&B |
| Year Released | 2009 |
| Album | I Am… Sasha Fierce |
Beyonce is a multi-talented artist who has enjoyed a long and successful career in the music industry. Known for her dancing and singing abilities, Beyonce has shown off the extensiveness of her vocal range in many of her songs. The 2009 hit single, “Halo,” includes a G5 note, which, although it isn’t the highest we’ve ever heard Beyonce sing, is still pretty impressive!
61. Ball and Chain by Janis Joplin
| Genre | Blues |
| Year Released | 1968 |
| Album | Ball and Chain |
Many of the songs that Janis Joplin recorded were covers, but she was such a talented vocalist that her versions often became better known than the originals. This is arguably the case with “Ball and Chain,” originally written and recorded by Big Mama Thornton, who also released an excellent version of the song. Joplin manages to hit a D5 in her cover, singing with her signature raspy, soulful vocal style.
62. Rainy Night House by Joni Mitchell
| Genre | Folk, Pop |
| Year Released | 1970 |
| Album | Ladies of the Canyon |
Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell’s 1970 album Ladies of the Canyon is an exceptional collection of folk and pop songs. Despite not being a particularly well-known song, “Rainy Night House” is one of the best compositions from the album. It features a stunning vocal performance from Mitchell, in which she consistently hits very high notes in her full and head voices.
63. Playground by Steve Lacy
| Genre | R&B, Soul |
| Year Released | 2019 |
| Album | Apollo XXI |
“Playground” was a popular song from R&B artist Steve Lacy’s first studio album, Apollo XXI. The track has a ‘70s funk and soul sound, with some modern effects and production. In the chorus, Lacy uses his falsetto range to reach a very high note that would be considered a struggle for most singers!
64. Imagining My Man by Aldous Harding
| Genre | Folk |
| Year Released | 2017 |
| Album | Party |
New Zealand artist Aldous Harding has a reputation for creating unique and innovative pop songs. The 2017 song “Imagining My Man” is a slow-paced track that predominantly includes vocals and piano. The song features lyrics about being disappointed in a relationship, and Harding conveys emotion by switching between the lower and higher registers of her vocal range.
65. Titanium by David Guetta ft. Sia
| Genre | House |
| Year Released | 2011 |
| Album | Nothing but the Beat |
French DJ and producer David Guetta was responsible for many of the best-selling singles of the late 2000s and early 2010s. For the track “Titanium,” he teamed up with Australian singer Sia, who is known for her powerful, emotive voice. Sia managed to belt out some very high notes in the chorus of this house-pop hit while maintaining her excellent tone.
Spotify Playlist of Songs With High Notes
Here is a playlist that includes all of the songs mentioned above.
Wrap Up:
Let us know if there are any songs that you think we should add to our playlist in the comments section below.
Hi, my name is Kevin and I’m from Butler, Pennsylvania. I’ve been obsessed with music and audio gear for as long as I can remember. I started this website to help people find professional advice related to a wide range of audio topics. We have a number of Audio Engineers on our team who have been designing and fixing audio gear for decades.