Alison Moyet
Singer in Yazoo/Yaz, distinctive contralto voice, 1980s synth-pop icon
Genevieve Alison Jane Moyet (born June 18, 1961) is a British singer, songwriter, and musician celebrated for her powerful contralto voice and emotional depth in performance. Born in Basildon, Essex, Moyet first achieved prominence as half of the electronic duo Yazoo (known as Yaz in North America) with Vince Clarke in the early 1980s, creating synth-pop hits including 'Only You' and 'Don't Go.' Her distinctive vocal style—rich, soulful, and melancholic—contrasted beautifully with Yazoo's synthesizer-driven soundscapes, creating a unique aesthetic that influenced electronic music. Following Yazoo's initial breakup, Moyet pursued a successful solo career, releasing albums that showcased her range across pop, soul, and theatrical genres. She has appeared in stage productions and continued recording, earning critical respect for her artistic integrity and refusal to compromise her vision for commercial trends. Known for her authenticity, striking appearance, and uncompromising artistry, Moyet remains a cult figure in 1980s pop culture while maintaining an active career spanning decades. Her influence on electronic music, vocal performance, and post-punk aesthetics continues to resonate with contemporary artists and fans.
Alison Lohman
Actress in Matchstick Men, White Oleander, Drag Me to Hell
Alison Sweeney
Days of Our Lives actress, host of The Biggest Loser
Alison Janney
Emmy and Oscar-winning actress in The West Wing, Mom, I, Tonya
Alison Gopnik
Developmental psychologist, cognitive scientist, children's learning research
Entertainment
British
1961
Thinking about the name
Alison
Germanic origin
“A medieval diminutive of Alice, meaning 'noble natured' from the Germanic Adelaide. Alison emerged in England during the Middle Ages and gained literary immortality through Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales,' becoming a touchstone of English-speaking femininity. It remains sophisticated yet approachable, popular across generations.”