The Best Current Female Singers

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Updated May 15, 2024 2.3M views 98 items
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Only female artists who currently have singles out, are on tour, or have new albums.

The best female singers currently performing and making some of the best new songs right now could easily be among the best of all time without contest. Including new female artists who are rising stars in music, these are the most talented female singers in the world (and some of the most successful female musicians as well) here for you to rank from best to worst. This list of female pop singers has everyone from Beyoncé and Lady Gaga to Halsey and Billie Eilish.

The women on this list of female singers represent some of the women who have sold the most albums, female singers with the most awards (including women who have won Grammys), female vocalists with incredible vocal ranges, and just some of the most talented women in entertainment. Some of these top female singers are just becoming exposed to a wide audience, while others, like Adele and Taylor Swift, are known around the world for their vocal talents.

Featuring young pop stars, famous artists, Black vocalists, and more, this list of top female artists has it all! 

Who are the greatest female singers today? Which women are the best vocalists? Which American, Canadian, and English female singers are due for a banner year in 2021? Who are the best current female rock singers around the world right now? Are the best female singers today the most popular girl singers ever? These are tough questions we'll attempt to answer with this list of the best current female singers. If your favorite female pop singers aren't on the list, make sure to add her so she can contend for the #1 spot as the top current female singer. 

Most divisive: Britney Spears
Over 102.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Current Female Singers
  • Celine Dion
    Photo: Tom Rose / Shutterstock.com
    1
    16,394 VOTES

    Celine Dion

    Living legend Celine Dion is the best-selling Canadian artist of all time as well as the best-selling French-language artist of all time. Her technical prowess and rich discography have forever cemented her place in history. Though she had tour dates scheduled in 2022, her diagnosis of stiff-person syndrome forced her to cancel for the foreseeable future.

    16,394 votes
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  • Ariana Grande
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    2
    34,964 VOTES

    Ariana Grande

    Even though 2020 marked the last time that Ariana Grande released a full-length album, her presence on the pop music scene is undeniable. With charming acrobatic vocals and the industry's best producers on her side, Ariana has come into her own as an artist much more than many may have anticipated from her Nickelodeon days.

    34,964 votes
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  • Adele
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    3
    41,836 VOTES

    Adele

    Grammy magnet Adele is equally recognized for her rich voice and heartbreaking lyrics. Now in her 30s with a child and divorce under her belt, the pop star continues to document her life through her albums with millions listening in. 

    41,836 votes
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  • Sia
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    4
    24,578 VOTES

    Sia

    Not only flaunting a powerful voice, Sia is also the pen behind many of music's biggest hits including Rihanna's "Diamonds" and Beyoncé's “Pretty Hurts.” Sia's versatility also allows her to thrive in projects like LSD, a supergroup consisting of herself, Labrinth, and Diplo.

    24,578 votes
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  • Lady Gaga
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    5
    32,062 VOTES

    Lady Gaga

    These days, you might be more likely to catch Lady Gaga on the silver screen but when Gaga burst on the scene, she was a breath of fresh air. Uniquely flamboyant, over-the-top, and performative, Gaga continues to make boundary pushing music as evidenced by 2020's Chromatica.

    32,062 votes
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  • Kelly Clarkson
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    6
    21,902 VOTES

    Kelly Clarkson

    Kelly Clarkson's discography soundtracked the 2000s. Her hits, including “Stronger”, “Since U Been Gone”, and “Behind These Hazel Eyes” got extensive radio play and cemented her as a star post-American Idol. Her busy 2023 consists of releasing her tenth studio album, judging on The Voice, and hosting her own talk show.

    21,902 votes
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  • Rihanna
    Photo: Fred Duval / Shutterstock.com
    7
    28,879 VOTES

    Rihanna

    There are few artists that get begged for new albums more than Rihanna. After 2016's incredible Anti, the multi-hyphenate has been very quiet on the music front, preferring to focus on her Fenty brand and new family.

    28,879 votes
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  • Beyoncé
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    8
    32,419 VOTES

    Beyoncé

    In 2023, Beyoncé became the most awarded Grammy winner in history, with a total of 32 awards. With an exemplary discography both in her group and solo, Beyoncé is one of the most iconic artists of the last few decades. Hot off of Renaissance and her electrifying tour, audiences always eagerly anticipate the Queen Bey's next move.

    32,419 votes
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  • Shakira
    Photo: Lev Radin / Shutterstock.com
    9
    20,552 VOTES

    Shakira

    Shakira's oft imitated vibrato got her rejected from her school choir, but has now become her calling card. In recent years, she has cited writer's block but continues to push through and make music. In 2020, she and Jennifer Lopez put on a Super Bowl halftime show watched by over 100 million people, breaking a record at the time.

    20,552 votes
  • Alicia Keys
    Photo: Lev Radin / Shutterstock.com
    10
    20,673 VOTES

    Alicia Keys

    Alicia Keys has been an R&B staple for years. Beyond just being a vocalist, she is a songwriter, instrumentalist, arranger, and producer. Her distinct vision for her music and lyrical maturity and growth over the years ensures an Alicia Keys track could only have been made by her.

    20,673 votes
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  • P!nk
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    11
    27,376 VOTES

    P!nk

    P!nk is now nine albums in to her successful career. Incorporating Americana and folk elements, Trustfall continues her consistent themes of self-love and motivation helped by her powerful vocals.

    27,376 votes
  • Demi Lovato
    Photo: lev radin / Shutterstock.com
    12
    22,658 VOTES

    Demi Lovato

    Demi Lovato has taken to using their music as a form of catharsis, recounting trauma and mental health struggles through song. Lovato's evolving style throughout the years has proven their versatility with 2022's Holy Fvck primarily being a pop punk slash rock record.

    22,658 votes
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  • Taylor Swift
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    13
    33,418 VOTES

    Taylor Swift

    What can be said about Taylor Swift that hasn't already. The Grammy winning, record-breaking, mega pop star can do no wrong. Traipsing through genres from pop country to pop folk to 80s revivalism, Swift has proved she has the songwriting chops to do anything and make it hers.

    33,418 votes
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  • Christina Aguilera
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    14
    24,533 VOTES

    Christina Aguilera

    Having already established her legacy in the music world, Christina Aguilera's last album is a bit of a return to her roots. The trilogy album Aguilera, named after her Ecuadorian last name, pays tribute to multiple genres of Latin music and received major critical acclaim.

    24,533 votes
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  • Lana Del Rey
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    15
    17,297 VOTES

    Lana Del Rey

    Lana Del Rey's pen never stops. Constantly churning out albums at a rapid rate, the pop starlet has gone from hip-hop tinged beats on Born to Die to more singer-songwriter focused sounds on Blue Banisters. Her growth as a songwriter and vocalist in that time has been notable and fans and critics eagerly await her next album.

    17,297 votes
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  • Mariah Carey
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    16
    16,724 VOTES

    Mariah Carey

    Mariah Carey is known for her soulful voice and extraordinary range. Born on March 27, 1969, in Huntington, New York, Carey's passion for music was evident from her early years. Raised in a family deeply rooted in the arts, Carey's mother, an opera singer and vocal coach, played a pivotal role in nurturing her musical prowess. Despite facing financial constraints and racial prejudice, Carey's determination saw her moving to Manhattan right after high school, where she juggled several jobs while pursuing her dream of becoming a singer. Carey's breakthrough came in 1988 when her demo tape caught the eye of Columbia Records executive Tommy Mottola. Her eponymous debut album, released in 1990, topped the Billboard 200 for eleven consecutive weeks, ushering in an era of dominance for the young artist. Over time, Carey's discography expanded, blending elements of pop, R&B, hip hop, gospel, and soul, resulting in numerous chart-topping hits. Songs like "We Belong Together," "Hero," and her perennial holiday favorite "All I Want for Christmas Is You" have become integral parts of global music culture. Carey's exceptional five-octave vocal range and signature use of the whistle register have earned her the title of "Songbird Supreme" by the Guinness World Records. Beyond her musical accomplishments, Carey has also made notable strides in acting and philanthropy. She starred in the semi-autobiographical film Glitter and has appeared in various television shows and movies. As a philanthropist, Carey's efforts are primarily directed towards organizations benefiting underprivileged children, and she is actively involved in charities such as the Fresh Air Fund and Save the Music Foundation. Through her career, marked by numerous awards including Grammy Awards, World Music Awards, and over a dozen Billboard Music Awards, Mariah Carey has emerged as an emblem of resilience and artistic brilliance.
    16,724 votes
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  • Dua Lipa
    Photo: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com
    17
    7,805 VOTES

    Dua Lipa

    Dua Lipa, along with The Weeknd, has played a massive role in the recent rise of 80s revivalism. Her synth-laden album Future Nostalgia spawned several hits and propelled her to It Girl status in the mainstream.

    7,805 votes
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  • Selena Gomez
    Photo: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com
    18
    16,333 VOTES

    Selena Gomez

    Not exactly the most skilled vocalist on this list, Selena Gomez has still proven she knows how to make a good song. Her husky talk-singing along with well-chosen collaborations with Kygo and Marshmellow have made a her a radio staple.

    16,333 votes
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  • Halsey
    Photo: Capitol
    19
    7,632 VOTES

    Halsey

    Halsey's unique timber makes her instantly recognizable. Through her grandiose records, the singer has been transparent about her health and emotional struggles while making some very catchy songs. 2021's If I Can't Have Love, I Want Power is Halsey's attempt at explaining the joys and horrors of childbirth after having her first child.

    7,632 votes
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  • Miley Cyrus
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    20
    13,186 VOTES

    Miley Cyrus

    Miley Cyrus, born Destiny Hope Cyrus on November 23, 1992, in Franklin, Tennessee, has carved a distinctive niche in the entertainment industry. Daughter of country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, her journey began with an early exposure to music and acting, which became the foundation for her soaring career. Known for her versatile talent, Miley transitioned from being a Disney star to a global pop sensation, all while making headlines with her bold personality and unapologetic stance on various societal issues. Cyrus's career kick-started in 2004, when she beat out a thousand hopefuls to land the leading role of Miley Stewart/Hannah Montana in the Disney Channel series Hannah Montana. The show, which aired from 2006 to 2011, catapulted her to fame, and she quickly became a teen idol. Her success as Hannah Montana led to a series of soundtrack albums, concert tours, and merchandise, solidifying her status as a Disney sensation. However, it was her decision to step away from her wholesome image that marked a significant turning point in her career. In 2008, Cyrus released her first non-Hannah Montana album, Breakout, which paved the way for her transition into a more mature sound. Her subsequent albums, including Bangerz (2013) and Plastic Hearts (2020), showcased her evolution as an artist, incorporating elements of pop, country, hip hop, and rock. Throughout her career, Cyrus has faced criticism for her provocative image and performances, but she has remained resolute in expressing her artistic vision and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, animal rights, and mental health awareness. Despite the controversies, she has amassed numerous awards and accolades, cementing her place as one of the most influential figures in pop culture.
    13,186 votes
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  • Jessie J
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    21
    13,411 VOTES

    Jessie J

    Jessie J, born Jessica Ellen Cornish on March 27, 1988 in London, England, is a globally recognized singer and songwriter known for her distinctive voice and eclectic mix of musical genres. The youngest of three children, Jessie showcased an early talent for performing arts, gaining acceptance into the prestigious BRIT School at the age of 16 where she honed her craft alongside future stars like Adele and Leona Lewis. After graduation, she embarked on a songwriting career, penning tracks for artists including Chris Brown and Miley Cyrus before stepping into the spotlight herself. Her debut single, "Do It Like a Dude", released in 2010, was a resounding success, climbing high on the UK Singles Chart and establishing her as a fresh, bold voice in the music industry. This was followed by the release of her first studio album, Who You Are, in 2011. The album included the global hit Price Tag, which topped the charts in nineteen countries and solidified Jessie's reputation as a formidable talent. Her subsequent albums, Alive (2013) and Sweet Talker (2014), spawned more hits such as "Wild" and "Bang Bang", the latter earning her a Grammy nomination. In addition to her music career, Jessie J has also made a name for herself in television. In 2012, she became a coach on the UK version of The Voice, a role she held for two seasons. She later reprised this role on the Australian version of the show, further expanding her international reach. Despite her success, Jessie J remains committed to using her platform for good, regularly participating in charity events and advocating for various social causes. Through her music and her actions, Jessie J continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
    13,411 votes
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  • Katy Perry
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    22
    23,024 VOTES

    Katy Perry

    Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson, popularly known as Katy Perry, is an influential figure in the global music industry. Born on October 25, 1984 in Santa Barbara, California to Pentecostal pastors Mary Christine and Maurice Keith Hudson, her upbringing was deeply rooted in faith and gospel music. Despite initial struggles with a first unsuccessful album under her birth name Katy Hudson, she never gave up on her passion for music. Perry's breakthrough came when she signed with Capitol Records Company in 2007. Her second studio album One of the Boys marked a significant shift from gospel to pop rock genre and included hits like I Kissed a Girl and Hot n Cold. The release catapulted Perry into international stardom and established her as one of the leading artists of contemporary pop culture. She further cemented this status with subsequent albums such as Teenage Dream, which became only the second album after Michael Jackson's "Bad" to feature five number-one songs on Billboard Hot 100. Apart from being an iconic singer-songwriter, Perry has also made notable contributions through philanthropy and activism work. She has been involved with numerous charities including UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadorship since December 2013 focusing on improving living conditions for children worldwide. In addition to this commendable humanitarian work, Perry is known for using her platform to advocate for LGBT rights and mental health awareness among other causes close to her heart.
    23,024 votes
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  • Camila Cabello
    Photo: @camila_cabello / Instagram
    23
    6,983 VOTES

    Camila Cabello

    Former Fifth Harmony member Camila Cabello found her voice after leaving the X-Factor created group. Lacing her Hispanic heritage into her music, she's found a niche in the pop lane and had her biggest hit with 2018's “Havana.”

    6,983 votes
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  • Olivia Rodrigo
    Photo: Geffen
    24
    2,198 VOTES

    Olivia Rodrigo

    Olivia Isabel Rodrigo (born February 20, 2003) is an American singer-songwriter and actress. She rose to prominence with her lead roles on the Disney television programmes Bizaardvark and High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. After signing with Interscope and Geffen Records, she released her debut single "Drivers License" in 2021, which broke various streaming records and finished as one of the best-selling songs of the year along with its successors "Deja Vu" and "Good 4 U". Rodrigo's debut studio album, Sour (2021), topped charts globally and received widespread critical acclaim. She is nominated in seven categories at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist, Album of the Year for Sour, and Record of the Year and Song of the Year for "Drivers License."
    2,198 votes
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  • Billie Eilish
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    25
    5,600 VOTES

    Billie Eilish

    Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O'Connell (born December 18, 2001) is an American singer and songwriter. She first gained public attention in 2015 with her debut single "Ocean Eyes", written and produced by her brother Finneas O'Connell, with whom she collaborates on music and live shows. In 2017, she released her debut extended play (EP), Don't Smile at Me. Commercially successful, it reached the top 15 of record charts in numerous countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
    5,600 votes
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  • Alessia Cara
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    26
    4,471 VOTES

    Alessia Cara

    In the mid-2010s, Alessia Cara had a string of certifiable hits. Starting with sleeper hit “Here” and progressing to "Scars to Your Beautiful" and "Stay", the Canadian singer had achieved massive success at a very young age. Her brand of introvert pop continues with 2021's In the Meantime.

    4,471 votes
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  • Carrie Underwood
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    27
    16,244 VOTES

    Carrie Underwood

    Carrie Underwood, a celebrated figure in the realm of country music, hails from Muskogee, Oklahoma. Born on March 10, 1983, she grew up on her parents' farm where she developed a deep passion for music at an early age. Her journey towards stardom began in earnest when she won the fourth season of American Idol in 2005, a victory that launched her into the limelight and set the stage for an illustrious career. Underwood's musical prowess has been recognized with numerous accolades. She is a seven-time Grammy Award winner, with honors that include Best New Artist and Best Female Country Vocal Performance. Additionally, she has received 14 Academy of Country Music Awards, and in 2009, was inducted into the prestigious Grand Ole Opry, a testament to her substantial impact on country music. Her discography boasts multiple multi-platinum albums, including Some Hearts, Carnival Ride, and Blown Away, each one showcasing her powerful vocals and storytelling abilities. Apart from her successful music career, Underwood is also known for her philanthropic efforts. She established the C.A.T.S Foundation (Checotah Animal, Town, and School Foundation) to aid her hometown's educational and animal-related causes. Moreover, she has supported several organizations such as the Red Cross and Save the Children, further showcasing her compassion and dedication to making a positive difference in the world. Carrie Underwood's journey from a small-town girl to an award-winning country superstar is a testament to her talent, resilience, and enduring charm.
    16,244 votes
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  • Gwen Stefani
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    28
    10,773 VOTES

    Gwen Stefani

    Gwen Stefani, an iconic figure in the music industry, has been a beacon of creativity and innovation for over three decades. Born on October 3, 1969, in Fullerton, California, Stefani was drawn to music from a young age. She started her journey in the world of music as the lead vocalist of the rock band No Doubt, and her unique style and engaging performances quickly caught the audience's attention. With songs like "Don't Speak" and "Just a Girl," the band rose to international fame in the mid-1990s, making Stefani a household name. Stefani's musical talents extend beyond her work with No Doubt. In the early 2000s, she embarked on a successful solo career that showcased her versatility and artistic evolution. Her debut solo album, Love. Angel. Music. Baby. released in 2004, reflected her interest in pop music and fashion, becoming a commercial success. It included hits such as "Hollaback Girl" and "Rich Girl," which further solidified her standing in the music industry. In addition to her singing career, Stefani is also a recognized fashion designer and actress. She launched her own clothing line, L.A.M.B., in 2004, which reflects her eclectic style influenced by a mix of modern and vintage fashion. Furthermore, she has appeared in several films and television shows, demonstrating her multifaceted talent. Throughout her career, Stefani has received numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards, and has sold over 30 million albums worldwide.
    10,773 votes
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  • Ellie Goulding
    Photo: Chris Jackson / Getty Images
    29
    13,954 VOTES

    Ellie Goulding

    Elena Jane Goulding (born 30 December 1986) is an English singer and songwriter. Her career began when she met record producers Starsmith and Frankmusik, and she was later spotted by Jamie Lillywhite, who later became her manager and A&R. After signing to Polydor Records in July 2009, Goulding released her debut extended play, An Introduction to Ellie Goulding later that year.In 2010, she became the second artist to top the BBC's annual Sound of... poll and win the Critics' Choice Award at the Brit Awards in the same year. She released her debut studio album, Lights, in 2010; it debuted at No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and has sold over 850,000 copies in the United Kingdom. In November 2010, the album was reissued as Bright Lights, which spawned two singles: a cover of Elton John's "Your Song" which was selected for the first John Lewis Christmas advert, reached No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart, and "Lights", which became Goulding's highest-charting single on the US Billboard Hot 100 to date, peaking at No. 2. Goulding's second studio album, Halcyon, was released in October 2012. "Anything Could Happen" preceded the album as the lead single. The album debuted at No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart, and after 65 weeks, it reached No. 1. Halcyon debuted at No. 9 on the US Billboard 200. Halcyon Days, a repackaged edition of Halcyon, was released in August 2013, generating singles, such as "Burn", which became her first No. 1 single in the UK. At the 2014 Brit Awards, she received the award for British Female Solo Artist. Goulding released her third studio album, titled Delirium, on 6 November 2015, with "On My Mind" as the album's lead single. In December 2015, she received her first Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Solo Performance for her single "Love Me like You Do".
    13,954 votes
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  • Avril Lavigne
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    30
    11,320 VOTES

    Avril Lavigne

    Avril Ramona Lavigne, born on September 27, 1984 in Belleville, Ontario, Canada, is a globally recognized Canadian-French singer-songwriter and actress. Raised in a deeply religious family, her journey towards stardom began in church choirs and local performances. Her raw talent was noticed by her first manager, Cliff Fabri, while she was performing at a bookstore in Kingston, Ontario. This led to a two-album recording contract with Arista Records, worth more than $2 million. Lavigne's debut album, Let Go, released in 2002, catapulted her into the limelight. The album, marked by its punk-pop sound, reached number two on the U.S Billboard 200 and was certified six-times platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. The lead single, "Complicated," was a global hit, setting the tone for Lavigne's signature style - a blend of punk, rock, and pop that appealed to a broad audience. In addition to her music career, Lavigne ventured into acting, making appearances in films such as Over the Hedge and Fast Food Nation. Throughout her career, Avril Lavigne has been acclaimed not only for her distinctive vocal prowess but also for her songwriting skills. She has received several awards, including eight Grammy nominations. Moreover, her philanthropic endeavors are noteworthy. In 2010, she established the Avril Lavigne Foundation, which supports people with serious illnesses and disabilities. Despite battling Lyme disease, Lavigne continues to inspire millions with her resiliency and undeniable talent, proving herself to be a steadfast figure in the ever-changing world of music.
    11,320 votes
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