Neko Case and Tanya Donnelly need to make the list
Elizabeth Fraser is the first one to come to mind for me, as well.
The all-time great, Eleanora Fagan. Aka Billie Holiday.
Yes, when the news or traffic makes me crazy it’s Billie. Natalie Merchant when I am having a massage works
Another Norah Jones fan.
Also Alison Krauss, Linda Ronstadt and Judy Collins.
I’m not usually good at these things, but Sade (Shah-day) Smooth Operator fits the bill.
Margo Timmins, Cowboy Junkies
Cass Elliot had a pleasant voice.
And I’ll echo Margo Timmins.
I love both of those singers. Neko Case is one of my favorite artists. But I don’t know if I would call them soothing.
Sarah McLachlan might fit in the category.
Sarah McLachlan - Adia - YouTube****
Another one who came to mind is Patti Austin.
I find Tori Amos can be very soothing, depending on the song.
More votes for Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris. (But not Parton.)
A million times yes to this. Also to Elizabeth Fraser and Karen Carpenter. They all seem to sing as effortlessly as breathing, like they aren’t even trying and I suspect that has something to do with that soothing effect.
One not mentioned but worth chucking in the mix is Kate Bush. OK, not for everything she’s done but on such as “50 words for snow” she absolutely fits the bill.
Sandy Denny and Linda Thompson were the first two that popped into my head.
Sophie Zelmani - YouTube
I’m not sure if “soothing” is precisely the right word, but Haley Westenra’s voice just sort of makes me melt.
Linda Thompson - Dreams Fly Away (History Of) - The Great Valerio (live, 1975) (w Richard Thompson)
Rachel Foster from the Weekend Players (Angel) amongst other projects.
And, of course, Tracey Thorn from Everything but the Girl (No Difference) and her collaborations with Massive Attack (Protection).
-DF
Oh, Tracye Thorn is a good one, especially “Protection”. It’s one of those otherworldly songs by Massive Attack only they can do. They always make their guest-singers shine.