Singers Who Died in 2023 (Complete List)

The year 2023 marked the loss of many influential singers across multiple genres, including rock, pop, soul, country, and hip-hop. These artists shaped the soundtrack of different generations, leaving behind music that continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

From legendary icons like Tina Turner, Tony Bennett, and Sinéad O’Connor to emerging voices such as Faye Fantarrow, the global music community experienced a wide range of losses. Each singer contributed unique artistry that influenced their genre and connected with millions of fans.

Below is a verified list of singers who died in 2023, including key biographical details and their contributions to music.

Complete List of Singers Who Died in 2023

Name	Nationality	Date of Death	Age	Known For
Gangsta Boo	American	Jan 1, 2023	43	Three 6 Mafia rapper
Alan Rankine	Scottish	Jan 2, 2023	64	The Associates
Lisa Marie Presley	American	Jan 12, 2023	54	Singer, Elvis Presley’s daughter
C.J. Harris	American	Jan 15, 2023	31	American Idol contestant
David Crosby	American	Jan 18, 2023	81	Crosby, Stills & Nash
Tom Verlaine	American	Jan 28, 2023	73	Television band
Barrett Strong	American	Jan 28, 2023	81	Motown singer
Burt Bacharach	American	Feb 8, 2023	94	Legendary songwriter
Hans Sven Poulsen	Australian	Feb 17, 2023	77	Folk-pop singer
Kyle Jacobs	American	Feb 17, 2023	49	Country songwriter
Bobby Caldwell	American	Mar 14, 2023	71	“What You Won’t Do for Love”
Paul Cattermole	British	Apr 6, 2023	46	S Club 7
Harry Belafonte	American	Apr 25, 2023	96	Calypso legend
Gordon Lightfoot	Canadian	May 1, 2023	84	Folk legend
Ed Ames	American	May 21, 2023	95	Ames Brothers
Tina Turner	American-Swiss	May 24, 2023	83	Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll
Choi Sung-bong	South Korean	Jun 20, 2023	33	Korea’s Got Talent
Coco Lee	Chinese-American	Jul 5, 2023	48	International pop star
Tony Bennett	American	Jul 21, 2023	96	Jazz legend
Sinéad O’Connor	Irish	Jul 26, 2023	56	“Nothing Compares 2 U”
Faye Fantarrow	British	Aug 26, 2023	21	Indie singer
Jimmy Buffett	American	Sep 1, 2023	76	Margaritaville
Richard Laviolette	Canadian	Sep 5, 2023	41	Indie folk
Charlie Robison	American	Sep 10, 2023	59	Texas country
Aérea Negrot	Venezuelan	Oct 11, 2023	43	Electronic music
Dwight Twilley	American	Oct 18, 2023	72	Power pop
Bill Rice	American	Oct 28, 2023	84	Country songwriter
Charlie Dominici	American	Nov 17, 2023	72	Dream Theater
Shane MacGowan	Irish	Nov 30, 2023	65	The Pogues
Lola Dee	American	Dec 7, 2023	95	1950s pop singer
Jeffrey Foskett	American	Dec 11, 2023	67	Beach Boys collaborator

Gangsta Boo

Born: August 7, 1979
Died: January 1, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Member of Three 6 Mafia; Southern hip-hop pioneer
Cause of death: Accidental overdose (fentanyl, cocaine, alcohol)

Gangsta Boo was an influential American rapper and singer best known as the only female member of the pioneering Southern hip-hop group Three 6 Mafia. Rising to fame in the mid-1990s, she contributed to the group’s gritty Memphis sound and appeared on several landmark albums. After leaving the group in 2001, she built a successful solo career with albums like Enquiring Minds. Gangsta Boo also collaborated with artists such as Eminem, OutKast, and Run the Jewels. Her impact helped open doors for women in Southern hip-hop.

Alan Rankine

Born: May 17, 1958
Died: January 2, 2023
Nationality: Scottish
Known for: Co-founder of post-punk band The Associates
Cause of death: Heart disease

Alan Rankine was a Scottish musician, singer, and producer best known as the co-founder of the post-punk band The Associates. Formed with vocalist Billy Mackenzie in the late 1970s, the band became known for its experimental sound and influential albums such as Sulk. Rankine later pursued a career as a producer and worked with artists including the Cocteau Twins and Paul Haig. In addition to performing, he became a respected music educator, mentoring young musicians and contributing to Scotland’s modern music scene.

Lisa Marie Presley

Born: February 1, 1968
Died: January 12, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Singer-songwriter; daughter of Elvis Presley
Cause of death: Small bowel obstruction following bariatric surgery

Lisa Marie Presley was an American singer-songwriter and the only child of music legend Elvis Presley. She began her recording career in 2003 with the album To Whom It May Concern, which reached the Billboard charts and earned gold certification. Presley’s music blended rock, blues, and country influences with introspective songwriting. Over time, she released several albums including Now What and Storm & Grace. Beyond her music career, she remained closely connected to her father’s legacy at Graceland.

C.J. Harris

Born: January 28, 1991
Died: January 15, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: American Idol Season 13 finalist
Cause of death: Heart attack

C.J. Harris was an American singer-songwriter who gained national recognition after finishing sixth on the thirteenth season of American Idol in 2014. Known for his soulful voice and authentic style, Harris blended blues, rock, and country influences. Before appearing on the show, he performed locally in Alabama and released an independent album titled Small Town Boy. His heartfelt performances and warm personality earned him a loyal fan base and respect from fellow musicians.

David Crosby

Born: August 14, 1941
Died: January 18, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Crosby, Stills & Nash; The Byrds
Cause of death: Long illness (exact cause not publicly specified)

David Crosby was an influential American singer and guitarist known for his role in shaping folk-rock music. He first rose to prominence as a founding member of The Byrds before forming the supergroup Crosby, Stills & Nash, later joined by Neil Young. Crosby’s distinctive harmonies and songwriting helped define the California sound of the late 1960s and 1970s. A two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, he also released numerous solo albums and collaborated with many prominent artists.

Tom Verlaine

Born: December 13, 1949
Died: January 28, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Frontman of Television; album Marquee Moon
Cause of death: Metastatic prostate cancer

Tom Verlaine was an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist best known as the frontman of the influential rock band Television. Formed in the mid-1970s in New York City, the band became a key part of the emerging punk and alternative rock scenes. Their debut album Marquee Moon is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock albums ever recorded. Verlaine was known for his distinctive guitar style, poetic lyrics, and artistic approach to rock music.

Barrett Strong

Born: February 5, 1941
Died: January 28, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Motown singer; “Money (That’s What I Want)”
Cause of death: Natural causes

Barrett Strong was an American singer and songwriter who played a major role in the development of Motown music. He first gained fame with the 1959 hit Money (That’s What I Want), one of the earliest Motown successes. Strong later became a prolific songwriter for the label, partnering with producer Norman Whitfield to create classics such as I Heard It Through the Grapevine and Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone. His songwriting helped shape the sound of soul music in the 1960s and 1970s.

Burt Bacharach

Born: May 12, 1928
Died: February 8, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Legendary songwriter and composer
Cause of death: Natural causes

Burt Bacharach was one of the most celebrated composers and songwriters in modern music. Known for his sophisticated melodies and orchestral arrangements, he wrote hundreds of songs recorded by artists such as Dionne Warwick, Dusty Springfield, and Aretha Franklin. His collaborations with lyricist Hal David produced timeless hits including Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head and What the World Needs Now Is Love. Bacharach won multiple Grammy and Academy Awards and influenced generations of songwriters.

Hans Sven Poulsen

Born: March 7, 1945
Died: February 17, 2023
Nationality: Australian
Known for: Folk-pop hits “Boom Sha La La Lo”
Cause of death: Not publicly disclosed

Hans Sven Poulsen was an Australian singer-songwriter known for his folk-pop style during the late 1960s and early 1970s. His songs, including Boom Sha La La Lo and There’s a Light Across the Valley, reflected the hippie-era musical culture of the time. Poulsen also wrote songs for other artists such as Johnny Farnham and Zoot. Later in life he moved to the Findhorn spiritual community in Scotland and eventually worked as a music therapist after overcoming serious health challenges.

Kyle Jacobs

Born: June 26, 1973
Died: February 17, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Country songwriter; husband of Kellie Pickler
Cause of death: Suicide (gunshot)

Kyle Jacobs was an American country music songwriter, singer, and guitarist known for writing chart-topping songs for major country artists. One of his most notable achievements was co-writing Garth Brooks’ hit More Than a Memory, which debuted at number one on the Billboard country chart. Jacobs also wrote songs recorded by Trace Adkins and Tim McGraw. In addition to his songwriting career, he appeared on the reality show I Love Kellie Pickler alongside his wife, singer Kellie Pickler.

Bobby Caldwell

Born: August 15, 1951
Died: March 14, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: “What You Won’t Do for Love”
Cause of death: Complications from long illness

Bobby Caldwell was an American singer and songwriter known for his smooth blend of R&B, jazz, and soul. He gained international fame with the 1978 hit What You Won’t Do for Love, which became a timeless classic. Caldwell’s music was widely sampled by hip-hop and R&B artists, introducing his work to new generations. Over his career he recorded numerous albums and performed worldwide, earning respect for his distinctive voice and songwriting ability.

Paul Cattermole

Born: March 7, 1977
Died: April 6, 2023
Nationality: British
Known for: Member of S Club 7
Cause of death: Natural causes

Paul Cattermole was an English singer and actor best known as a member of the pop group S Club 7. Formed in 1998, the band quickly became one of the biggest pop acts in the United Kingdom, producing hits such as Bring It All Back and Don’t Stop Movin’. After leaving the group in 2002, Cattermole pursued other musical projects including the rock band Skua. He later reunited with S Club 7 for reunion tours and special appearances.

Harry Belafonte

Born: March 1, 1927
Died: April 25, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: “Day-O (Banana Boat Song)”; civil rights activism
Cause of death: Congestive heart failure

Harry Belafonte was a legendary American singer and actor who helped popularize Caribbean music worldwide. Often called the “King of Calypso,” he achieved global fame with songs such as Day-O (The Banana Boat Song) and Jamaica Farewell. Belafonte was also a dedicated civil rights activist who worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. His contributions to music, film, and social justice made him one of the most respected cultural figures of the twentieth century.

Gordon Lightfoot

Born: November 17, 1938
Died: May 1, 2023
Nationality: Canadian
Known for: “If You Could Read My Mind”; “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”
Cause of death: Natural causes

Gordon Lightfoot was a celebrated Canadian singer-songwriter whose poetic storytelling made him one of the most influential figures in folk music. His songs such as If You Could Read My Mind and The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald became international classics. Lightfoot’s career spanned more than five decades and included numerous gold and platinum albums. His work influenced generations of musicians and played a significant role in shaping modern folk and country music.

Ed Ames

Born: July 9, 1927
Died: May 21, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Ames Brothers; “My Cup Runneth Over”
Cause of death: Alzheimer’s disease

Ed Ames was an American singer and actor known for both his solo recordings and his work with the vocal group The Ames Brothers. As a solo artist he achieved major success with songs such as My Cup Runneth Over. Ames also gained popularity as an actor for his role as Mingo in the television series Daniel Boone. His rich baritone voice and stage presence made him a beloved performer during the 1950s and 1960s.

Tina Turner

Born: November 26, 1939
Died: May 24, 2023
Nationality: American-Swiss
Known for: “What’s Love Got to Do with It”; Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll
Cause of death: Long illness

Tina Turner was one of the most iconic performers in rock and pop music history. Known as the “Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll,” she first gained fame with Ike & Tina Turner before launching a massively successful solo career. Her album Private Dancer and songs like What’s Love Got to Do with It cemented her global legacy. Turner’s powerful voice, electrifying stage performances, and personal resilience inspired millions of fans worldwide.

Choi Sung-bong

Born: February 18, 1990
Died: June 20, 2023
Nationality: South Korean
Known for: Korea’s Got Talent finalist
Cause of death: Suicide

Choi Sung-bong was a South Korean singer who captured global attention through his emotional performances on Korea’s Got Talent. Coming from a difficult childhood spent in an orphanage and on the streets, he gained admiration for his determination and musical talent. His powerful story and performances resonated with audiences around the world, making him one of the most memorable contestants in the show’s history.

Coco Lee

Born: January 17, 1975
Died: July 5, 2023
Nationality: Chinese-American
Known for: International pop singer; Disney Mulan soundtrack
Cause of death: Suicide following depression

Coco Lee was a Chinese-American pop singer who achieved international success across Asia and the United States. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic performances, she released numerous Mandarin and English albums. Lee was also the first Chinese singer to perform at the Academy Awards. Her career included film soundtracks, television appearances, and major concerts throughout Asia, making her one of the most recognizable voices in C-pop.

Tony Bennett

Born: August 3, 1926
Died: July 21, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: “I Left My Heart in San Francisco”
Cause of death: Complications of Alzheimer’s disease

Tony Bennett was one of the greatest jazz and traditional pop singers of all time. Rising to fame in the 1950s with songs like Because of You and Rags to Riches, Bennett remained active for more than seven decades. His signature song I Left My Heart in San Francisco became an enduring classic. Later in life he introduced his music to younger audiences through collaborations with artists such as Lady Gaga.

Sinéad O’Connor

Born: December 8, 1966
Died: July 26, 2023
Nationality: Irish
Known for: “Nothing Compares 2 U”
Cause of death: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma

Sinéad O’Connor was an Irish singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and emotionally intense music. She achieved worldwide fame with her hit Nothing Compares 2 U, which topped charts globally in 1990. O’Connor was also known for her outspoken activism and willingness to challenge social and political issues. Her unique artistry and fearless personality made her one of the most distinctive voices in modern music.

Faye Fantarrow

Born: 2002
Died: August 26, 2023
Nationality: British
Known for: Emerging indie singer; BBC Music Introducing
Cause of death: Brain tumor

Faye Fantarrow was an English singer-songwriter whose emerging career showed great promise in the indie music scene. She gained recognition through BBC Music Introducing and won the Alan Hull Award in 2021. Fantarrow recorded new music with support from musician Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics. Despite facing serious health challenges throughout her life, she remained dedicated to music and inspired many with her determination.

Jimmy Buffett

Born: December 25, 1946
Died: September 1, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: “Margaritaville”
Cause of death: Merkel cell skin cancer

Jimmy Buffett was an American singer-songwriter known for his laid-back “tropical rock” style. His signature song Margaritaville became a cultural phenomenon and inspired a global fan community known as “Parrotheads.” Buffett’s music celebrated escapism, island life, and humor, blending elements of country, rock, and Caribbean sounds. Beyond music, he built a successful business empire including restaurants, resorts, and lifestyle brands.

Richard Laviolette

Born: August 22, 1982
Died: September 5, 2023
Nationality: Canadian
Known for: Indie folk singer-songwriter
Cause of death: Medical assistance in dying due to Huntington’s disease

Richard Laviolette was a Canadian folk singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt lyrics and contributions to the indie folk scene. Based in Ontario, he released several albums and collaborated with numerous musicians in Canada’s independent music community. Laviolette’s work often reflected personal experiences and emotional storytelling, earning him a devoted following among folk music fans.

Charlie Robison

Born: September 1, 1964
Died: September 10, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Texas country singer
Cause of death: Cardiac arrest

Charlie Robison was an American country singer-songwriter associated with the Texas country music scene. His songs combined traditional country storytelling with elements of rock and Southern music. Albums such as Life of the Party and Good Times helped establish his reputation as an influential Texas songwriter. Robison’s music remained a staple of regional country radio and live performances.

Aérea Negrot

Born: October 9, 1980
Died: October 11, 2023
Nationality: Venezuelan
Known for: Electronic music artist; Hercules & Love Affair collaborator
Cause of death: Not publicly disclosed

Aérea Negrot was a Venezuelan electronic musician and singer known for blending techno, cabaret, and pop influences. Based in Berlin, she became a prominent figure in the city’s underground electronic music scene. Negrot collaborated with artists such as Hercules & Love Affair and released her debut album Arabxilla in 2011. Her artistic style combined theatrical performance with experimental electronic sound.

Dwight Twilley

Born: June 6, 1951
Died: October 18, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Power pop hit “I’m on Fire”
Cause of death: Not publicly disclosed

Dwight Twilley was an American singer-songwriter known for his role in the power pop movement of the 1970s. He first gained attention with the Dwight Twilley Band and their hit single I’m on Fire. Twilley later enjoyed solo success with songs like Girls. His melodic songwriting and energetic guitar style influenced many later pop-rock artists.

Bill Rice

Born: April 19, 1939
Died: October 28, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Country songwriter for Reba McEntire and Charley Pride
Cause of death: Not publicly disclosed

Bill Rice was an American country singer and songwriter who wrote numerous hits for major country artists. His compositions were recorded by performers such as Reba McEntire, Charley Pride, and Johnny Paycheck. Rice’s songwriting achievements earned him recognition from organizations like ASCAP. Although he recorded music himself, he became best known for shaping the sound of modern country through his songwriting.

Charlie Dominici

Charlie Dominici was an American singer known for his work with the progressive metal band Dream Theater. He served as the band’s vocalist on their debut album When Dream and Day Unite. Dominici later released solo albums and performed internationally. His voice played a role in the early development of Dream Theater’s sound within progressive metal.

Shane MacGowan

Born: December 25, 1957
Died: November 30, 2023
Nationality: Irish
Known for: Lead singer of The Pogues
Cause of death: Pneumonia following viral infection

Shane MacGowan was an Irish singer-songwriter best known as the frontman of the Celtic punk band The Pogues. His distinctive voice and poetic lyrics helped create songs that blended Irish folk traditions with punk energy. Tracks like Fairytale of New York became beloved holiday classics. MacGowan’s songwriting captured themes of Irish identity, storytelling, and rebellion.

Lola Dee

Born: May 4, 1928
Died: December 7, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: 1950s pop singer “Only You”
Cause of death: Natural causes

Lola Dee, born Lorraine DeAngelis, was an American pop singer who gained popularity during the 1950s. She recorded dozens of songs and toured widely with performers such as Bob Hope. Her recordings and live performances made her a recognizable voice in early television and radio entertainment. Dee remained active in entertainment for many years before transitioning to other professional pursuits later in life.

Jeffrey Foskett

Born: February 17, 1956
Died: December 11, 2023
Nationality: American
Known for: Beach Boys touring member; Brian Wilson collaborator
Cause of death: Anaplastic thyroid cancer

Jeffrey Foskett was an American singer, guitarist, and producer closely associated with The Beach Boys and Brian Wilson. Known for his high vocal harmonies, he became a key member of the band’s touring lineup and contributed to numerous recordings. Foskett also released solo albums and collaborated with several prominent musicians. His work helped preserve the classic Beach Boys sound for new generations.

Why 2023 Was a Significant Year of Loss in Music

The singers who died in 2023 represented multiple generations of music history:

1950s and 1960s vocal pioneers
Classic rock and folk legends
Pop and R&B superstars
Country music storytellers
Emerging indie and global artists

Many of these performers had careers spanning 40–60 years, shaping musical movements and influencing countless artists worldwide.

Conclusion

Although these singers passed away in 2023, their voices continue to resonate through recordings, performances, and the generations of artists they inspired. Music remains a powerful reminder of their artistry, ensuring their legacies endure long after their passing.

Editorial Note

This article compiles verified singer deaths in 2023 based on publicly available reports and music industry sources. Ages and causes of death are included when confirmed.

The list focuses primarily on artists known for vocal performance, including solo singers, band vocalists, and singer-songwriters across genres.