If you're talking singers then Mariah, Whitney and Celine should be top 3 no matter what. Mariah is usually bested in these lists by Whitney and vocally, arguably, rightfully so. However, If you're talking artistry, Mariah should always be at the top. 19 number ones, wrote or co-wrote 98% of her catalog and can we just talk about production and background vocals...stellar. She was a trendsetter and is often used as the blueprint. I'm a Whitney AND Mariah fan 'til the death of me but Mariah has always edged out the win for me.