Aretha Franklin has been named the greatest singer of all time in a new poll.

The singer topped the list ahead of Ray Charles and Elvis Presley, who came second and third respectively.

The rest of the top-5 was completed by Sam Cooke and former Beatle John Lennon.

The listed, published by Rolling Stones, was selected by 179 musicians and producers, including Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards and Iggy Pop.

In addition to Franklin, Bob Dylan, 7, and Stevie Wonder, 9, are the only two living performers in the top-ten.

Other prominent singers who made the countdown include Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant, Michael Jackson and Richards' band mate Mick Jagger.

(by Jason Gregory)