Washington, Dec 8 : Aretha Franklin has been named the ''Greatest Singer Of All Time'' by The Rolling Stone magazine.

The 66-year-old soul singer, best known for hits such as Respect and Think, has topped the list of 100 singers.

"Aretha is a gift from God. When it comes to expressing yourself through song, there is no one who can touch her. She is the reason why women want to sing," singer Mary J. Blige said.

"Aretha has everything - the power, the technique. She is honest with everything she says. And she has total confidence; she does not waver at all," she added.

Ray Charles, who died in 2004 at the age of 72, is second followed by Elvis Presley.

Sam Cooke, considered to be one of the pioneers and founders of soul music, came fourth while John Lennon rounded off the top five.

The magazine polled nearly 200 musicians and pundits.

The top ten ''Greatest Singers Of All Time'' are:

1) Aretha Franklin

2) Ray Charles

3) Elvis Presley

4) Sam Cooke

5) John Lennon

6) Marvin Gaye

7) Bob Dylan

8) Otis Redding

9) Stevie Wonder

10) James Brown (ANI)