30 Best Songs for Alto Female Voices – Powerful Picks for You
Alright, let’s get real: As an alto female, finding that perfect song to showcase your vocal depth can sometimes feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack. You’ve got that rich, warm lower register that’s practically begging to be highlighted, but the search for “best songs for alto female” can quickly spiral into an exhausting quest for something that doesn’t just fit your voice, but actually brings it to life. Trust me, I get it.
So, if you’re tired of hearing “you should sing soprano” (I mean, we’ve all been there, right?), let’s dive into these 30 powerful picks. From timeless ballads to modern hits, these “alto songs” have got your back. Whether you’re belting out a classic anthem or crooning a soulful ballad, these songs for altos will let your voice shine like it’s meant to. So, if you’re in need of some inspiration, buckle up—this list is about to take your alto singing to a whole new level.
1. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen
This one’s practically a rite of passage for alto singers. Honestly, I can’t count how many times I’ve sung “Hallelujah” at karaoke night, trying to channel my inner Leonard Cohen while desperately praying my voice doesn’t crack on the high notes. It’s a tricky one, but when you nail it? Absolute magic. The beauty of this song is that it’s all about emotion, and as an alto, you have the perfect vocal range to deliver that with depth. Plus, if you throw in a bit of artistic interpretation (or a tiny bit of improv), the audience will be moved, I promise.
2. “Someone Like You” by Adele
Let’s talk Adele. She knows how to make you feel every note, doesn’t she? “Someone Like You” is an absolute gift for altos, especially if you’re in the mood to go deep into your feelings and stir up some nostalgia (and maybe a tear or two). And hey, no shame in needing to belt out a little bit after a tough day. Seriously, this song just hits. My first time singing it in public, I thought I was going to choke on my nerves. Spoiler: I didn’t, but I definitely got a few teary-eyed nods from the crowd. Solid win.
3. “Natural Woman” by Aretha Franklin
You can’t talk about powerhouse female vocals without mentioning Aretha. “Natural Woman” is such a treat for altos—it sits so perfectly in our range. Trust me, if you’re looking for a song where you can really feel the power of your voice, this is it. Plus, the chorus? Hell yeah, it’s made for you to just let loose. Pro tip: make sure you’re ready to own it. If you don’t, Aretha will come for you from the afterlife.
4. “Back to Black” by Amy Winehouse
I’m just going to put this out there—Amy Winehouse’s voice is otherworldly. “Back to Black” is the perfect song for any alto who loves to mix melancholy with soul. You need to feel every word, every breath. The first time I tried to sing this one, I got way too caught up in the riffs. I ended up sounding like a cat caught in a tree, so yeah, a little humbling moment. But once you find that perfect rhythm, it becomes a groove that’s hard to beat.
5. “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
Sure, this song is a little bit of a vocal marathon, but hear me out. I love how the song builds, starting out soft and intimate, and then—boom—reaching those epic heights. For altos, it’s all about harnessing that emotional power and dialing it into every word. (Side note: I once tried to sing this in the shower, and my reflection just stared at me like, “Girl, what are you doing?” But when you get it right…you get it right.)
6. “The Rose” by Bette Midler
Oh, “The Rose.” If you’ve never sung this, it’s like getting a hug from the universe. The beauty of this song is that you don’t have to scream to be heard; it’s about subtlety and vulnerability. I’ve sung this at more than one wedding (my personal “go-to” for those moments where I need to feel like an ethereal angel—except with much less grace). It’s definitely an emotional ride, so if you’re an alto who loves to create a little drama, this one’s your stage.
7. “Stay” by Rihanna
Now, this one’s a little more on the contemporary side. “Stay” by Rihanna is perfect for altos who enjoy an emotional, stripped-back performance. When I first performed this song, I was convinced the audience could hear my heart pounding in my chest. I mean, it’s intimate, soft, but with such power hiding underneath. Not to mention, Rihanna’s voice was built for contrast, and as an alto, this track allows you to find your own balance between subtlety and strength.
8. “At Last” by Etta James
I don’t care if you’re singing this at karaoke, in a jazz lounge, or in your living room—if you don’t feel like royalty when you sing “At Last,” you’re doing it wrong. The way this song wraps around an alto voice is like wrapping yourself in a velvet blanket of comfort and soul. Seriously, if you ever want to feel like a star—this is your moment. And, no joke, I nearly did pass out when I first tried it on a stage. That’s how much this song commands presence.
9. “The Story” by Brandi Carlile
I’ll admit, this one might not be on every alto’s radar—but trust me, it should be. “The Story” is a beautifully haunting track that’s perfectly suited for a voice like yours. It’s got that folksy energy, but with deep emotional layers that allow your lower range to breathe. It’s kind of like taking a long, soulful walk through a forest—there’s something magical about it. Honestly, I’ve tried to sing this in my car about three times, and every time I fail. So…good luck! 😉
10. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt
Bonnie Raitt’s vocals are the gold standard. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” is that kind of song where you could either hit it out of the park or…well, let’s just say, you might be hugging the stage for a little extra emotional support. This one’s all about the delivery. You have to feel every second of the lyrics, and as an alto, your voice can really dive into that ache, that longing. If you need a song to rip your heart out on stage, this is your go-to.
11. “Feeling Good” by Nina Simone
This is one of those songs where you can’t help but feel a little like a diva. I’ve sung this song at least a thousand times—okay, maybe not a thousand, but you get it—and each time, I feel like I’ve been transported to a smoky jazz bar in New Orleans. Nina Simone’s version is timeless, and the way it sits with an alto voice is just chef’s kiss. Every time I sing this, I try to channel my inner badass, and let’s just say…I don’t always succeed. But when I do? Oh, baby.
12. “Rise Up” by Andra Day
Look, I’ll be honest: If this song doesn’t make you want to stand up, raise your fist, and feel like you can take on the world, then we need to talk. “Rise Up” is perfect for anyone with a bit of sass and power in their voice. The chorus will test your range, but trust me—it’s worth it. The first time I performed it, I thought I was going to blow the roof off. Spoiler alert: I didn’t, but the energy was definitely there. Plus, it’ll make you feel like you can take on anything—even the monster of laundry piling up at home.
13. “Jar of Hearts” by Christina Perri
Let’s take it back to a time when everyone had their heart broken and Instagram was just becoming a thing. If you’re an alto who’s into emotional ballads, “Jar of Hearts” is perfect. Honestly, I might have tried this one in a very questionable karaoke performance (long story), but I’ll tell you: when you hit those high notes just right, it feels like you’re winning at life. The mix of vulnerability and strength in this song is a treat for any alto looking to feel the moment.
14. “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys
Okay, so when Alicia Keys sings “If I Ain’t Got You,” we all feel something. It’s that sultry, effortless vibe that makes us want to swoon. As an alto, you’ve got the perfect toolset to deliver this with a bit of sass and soul. It sits right in that sweet spot between your chest voice and mixed voice—plus, the song is just fun.
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