The Greatest Prog Rock Singers: A Top 30 Countdown

**Bucka001** · 01-26-2021

I thought it was interesting that (re: Genesis vocalists) Collins ranked higher than Gabriel, and (re: Marillion vocalists) Hogarth ranked higher than Fish. Wonder what the hardcore prog fans of those two groups would think about that.

Hammill taking the top spot, makes sense -- fantastic range of styles, emotions, etc.

If nothing else, this article turned me onto Robert Wyatt's version of "I'm a Believer" (it's the clip chosen by Udiscover to showcase his singing chops). I very much like the classic Monkees version, but by changing the chords up (played on piano) during the verses, it gives the song a totally different (and wonderful) feel. Searched out a video perf of RW performing it on TOTP. Interesting clip with Nick Mason (Pink Floyd), Andy Summers (pre-Police), Fred Frith (Henry Cow), and others along for the ride.

**mozo-pg** · 01-26-2021

Originally Posted by Bucka001

I thought it was interesting that (re: Genesis vocalists) Collins ranked higher than Gabriel, and (re: Marillion vocalists) Hogarth ranked higher than Fish. Wonder what the hardcore prog fans of those two groups would think about that.

I'm a hardcore fan, and I agree with both Hogarth and Collins as the top choices.

**Mister Triscuits** · 01-26-2021

Originally Posted by Bucka001

If nothing else, this article turned me onto Robert Wyatt's version of "I'm a Believer" (it's the clip chosen by Udiscover to showcase his singing chops). I very much like the classic Monkees version, but by changing the chords up (played on piano) during the verses, it gives the song a totally different (and wonderful) feel. Searched out a video perf of RW performing it on TOTP. Interesting clip with Nick Mason (Pink Floyd), Andy Summers (pre-Police), Fred Frith (Henry Cow), and others along for the ride.

The producer of TOTP didn't want Robert to be in his wheelchair onscreen because he was afraid it would upset viewers. Robert refused to be on without it.

**Progbear** · 01-26-2021

Originally Posted by Progmatic

Although not prog throughout his whole career Demis Roussos was one helluva singer.

Yes, most of his career has been cheese, but he did indeed have an excellent singing voice. And he sang the Hell out of the songs on 666!

Originally Posted by Bucka001

I thought it was interesting that (re: Genesis vocalists) Collins ranked higher than Gabriel, and (re: Marillion vocalists) Hogarth ranked higher than Fish. Wonder what the hardcore prog fans of those two groups would think about that.

Say what you will about their respective solo careers, I would agree that Phil is probably technically a better singer than Peter. I really like both of them as singers, probably equally, but I do think that Phil is a phenomenal singer, and much underrated for his singing, especially here.

I’m kind of over Marillion whoever is singing. Fight that battle out amongst yourselves.

**mozo-pg** · 01-27-2021

Originally Posted by Progbear

Yes, most of his career has been cheese, but he did indeed have an excellent singing voice. And he sang the Hell out of the songs on 666!

Say what you will about their respective solo careers, I would agree that Phil is probably technically a better singer than Peter. I really like both of them as singers, probably equally, but I do think that Phil is a phenomenal singer, and much underrated for his singing, especially here.

I’m kind of over Marillion whoever is singing. Fight that battle out amongst yourselves.

That's my position too - on Phil. I'm a much bigger fan of Gabriel's solo material compared to Phil but he is technically superior. For Hogarth, the large majority of their catalog is Steve-led. He's vocals, to me, are far more emotive/compelling - listen to Brave, for instance. I still like Fish but just prefer Hogarth.