I have always loved music, so it was almost a no-brainer that I would love Glee. I still love Glee despite the many problematic storylines and controversies surrounding the cast. The show helped shape me into the outgoing person I am today. It made me love music more than I ever had before, and a small part of me even wishes to become a performer someday because of Glee and the music it produced.
One of Glee's best singers was Naya Rivera. Though the entire cast had great voices, Naya Rivera, Amber Riley, and Lea Michele definitely had the most singing talent. Say what you want about Lea as a person or an actress, but you cannot deny her singing talent. To the utter shock and surprise of her family, friends, and fans, Naya Rivera tragically passed away this month. Fans everywhere, myself included, mourn the loss of Naya. I still can't believe that she no longer walks this earth. Her talent was unmatched. Her acting was so great that many people thought Naya was cold and bitchy like her character Santana in real life. Her singing was amazing, and this list highlights her best performances on Glee in my opinion. I love every song Naya sang on the show, so this list was extremely hard to put together!
10. Songbird
Yes, this song is the lowest on my list, but that doesn't mean I don't love the performance! Naya revealed a softer singing style when she performed this in season two. Her emotion behind this song was extremely powerful and made the song even better.
9. Landslide
Though Naya sang this with co-stars Gwyneth Paltrow and Heather Morris, I'd argue that her vocals stand out the most. Naya takes most of the lead for this tune, again backing it with intense emotion. This song and scene are definite tear jerkers.
8. Toxic (Season 5)
The Unholy Trinity! Though these three all sang in the original season two cover of Britney's hit, their rendition in season five is ten times better. Naya's solo at the end of the song is astounding and showcases her incredible vocal range.
7. Girl on Fire
Naya's vocals in this Alicia Keys hit are astounding. When this episode aired, I listened to the Glee version of this song on repeat. Not only is the song inspirational, but Naya put her own spin on the song, backing it up with each powerful note she sang.
6. Nutbush City Limits
Naya's upbeat energy in this song makes it a standout performance. Her dancing ability is also highlighted here. Her ability to hold powerful high notes is displayed in full during this song. Naya's belting couldn't be topped.
5. Rumor Has It/Someone Like You
Not only was this the best mashup in the entire series, but one of Naya's best performances overall as well. Her acting in this scene was heart wrenching and made her singing even more powerful. This song deserved way more recognition than it received.
4. River Deep, Mountain High
Santana and Mercedes were ROBBED in the duet competition. This performance should have won. This song is another favorite of mine, and Amber and Naya OWNED the lyrics. Their voices fit perfectly together, there's no other word to describe it. They also performed the song various times live during the Glee Concert Tour. Yes, it sounded just as amazing as the recorded version.
3. Smooth Criminal
This iconic duet had to make the list. Naya's vocals and power in this song are unbelievable. Paired with Grant Gustin's voice and the cellos, I actually prefer Naya's version to Michael Jackson's original! This performance definitely showcased Naya's true talent.
2. If I Die Young
This song. Wow. It aches my heart that Naya sang this for the Cory Monteith tribute episode...and then actually died young. It puts an entirely new meaning on the lyrics. Her voice is perfect for this song and I honestly couldn't picture anyone else in the Glee cast singing it. Besides her obvious talent, Naya's singing was also known for making people cry.
1. Valerie
Valerie was one of Naya's first solos on Glee in season two. She did not disappoint and proved her worth as a singer (see above if you don't agree). This upbeat version of Amy Winehouse's song has been a fan favorite for many years. I think of this song when I think of Glee. Naya definitely made listeners have feelings of glee when she performed this. I think this was Naya's best performance by far.
Ranking her songs was not easy, and like I said, I love all of them (even the ones I didn't list). Naya Rivera was taken far too soon, yet she left a lasting mark on the world. Rest in peace Naya. Your talent will never be forgotten.
