When it comes to choosing the right microphone, opinions can be as diverse as the artists who use them. While we’ll dive into the favorite mics of famous singers shortly, let me first share a personal story about a classic mic that has stood the test of time: the Shure SM58.
A Personal Connection: My Journey with the Shure SM58
While researching microphones for our new podcasting setup, I found myself revisiting an old friend: the SM58. For those unfamiliar, “SM” stands for Studio Microphone, but to me, it’s always been a reliable companion, even in the most rugged situations.
I remember a time back in the ’90s when I saw an SM58 being used as a hammer in a studio—yes, really! And it didn’t miss a beat when it was time to record. At the public access station where I worked, our entire ENG (Electronic News Gathering) audio setup consisted of an XLR cable and one trusty Shure SM58 (along with the camera mic). Back then, in my adventurous 20s, the SM58 was right there with me in the trenches, handling whatever came its way.
Now, almost 30 years later (still feeling like I’m in my 20s, even with grown-up kids!), I’ve learned that my old buddy is nothing short of a celebrity microphone. And I mean that literally—used by the likes of Robert Plant, Mick Jagger, Bono, and Bruce Springsteen!
From Studio Staple to Rock Icon
Before I ever touched an SM58, I watched The Song Remains the Same about 800 times. Little did I know back then that the same mic that could be used on stage to capture Robert Plant’s legendary voice would become an indispensable tool in my own recording journey.
Why the SM58 Stands Out
Let’s get a bit technical. During my research, I combed through over 800 articles on the internet about the SM58. One of the best resources I found was from Shure themselves, where I learned more about the microphone’s design and why it’s been such a stage favorite for decades. One of the key reasons? Its low/no feedback feature, which makes it ideal for live performances. The SM58 is engineered to handle loud environments, cancel out background noise, and focus on the sound right in front of it—making it perfect for everything from rock concerts to public speaking.
Click on the image below to see a taped-up, battle-worn SM58 still going strong (and hopefully, you’ll find it as hilarious and endearing as I do).
Famous Singers’ Favorite Microphones
Now, let’s get back to the celebrities. It’s fascinating to see the range of microphones that iconic artists have used over the years. Interestingly, when searching for the “Best Microphone of All Time” versus “Famous Singers’ Favorite Microphone,” I found some surprising differences. Here are a few of the top microphones that consistently came up:
| Microphone | Famous Users |
|---|---|
| Shure SM7B | Michael Jackson, Sheryl Crow, Bob Dylan |
| Sennheiser e945 | Madonna, Drake |
| Neumann U47 | Frank Sinatra, John Lennon, The Beatles, Jim Morrison |
| Electro-Voice RE20 | Bob Dylan |
| Shure SM58 | Patti Smith, Sheryl Crow, Henry Rollins, Brandon Flowers, Mick Jagger, Robert Plant, Bono |
| AKG C24 | Beyoncé |
| Neumann U67 | Kurt Cobain |
| AKG C414B | Sinéad O’Connor |
Sources
For a deeper dive into these legendary microphones and the artists who made them famous, check out the following articles:
- Top 5 Famous Studio Microphones – The Vocalist Studio
- Best Microphones Used by Famous Singers – Mic For You
The Legendary Shure SM58: More Than Just a Mic
The Shure SM58 is more than just a microphone; it’s a legend. It has been a constant companion to musicians, sound engineers, and speakers worldwide for over five decades. Its rugged design, consistent performance, and ability to handle high-pressure levels make it one of the most versatile mics ever made. Whether it’s belting out lyrics in a packed arena or surviving the rough-and-tumble world of live events, the SM58 has earned its place in music history.
Final Thoughts
From vintage studio microphones like the Neumann U47 to modern classics like the Shure SM7B, each mic has its unique characteristics that suit different styles and voices. But when it comes to reliability and versatility, it’s hard to beat the Shure SM58. It’s been a trusted partner in my audio adventures, and knowing that it shares a place on stage with some of the greatest rock legends of all time makes it all the more special.
So, whether you’re setting up a podcast, performing live, or just singing in the shower, finding the right microphone can make all the difference. And who knows? Maybe your mic of choice will become a legend, too.
