Captivating female jazz singers who illuminate the history of jazz. Recommended jazz vocals from around the world.
A jazz world woven from innate vocal talent and distinctive timing.
The voices of female jazz vocalists possess a mysterious allure that stirs the listener’s heart.
From legendary divas who captivate with silky phrasing and lustrous tone, to young artists who pursue new forms of expression through bold reinterpretations, we invite you into the realm of female singers cherished across generations.
They spin the deep emotions embedded in jazz through the delicate expressiveness unique to women.
Encountering such gemlike voices will surely enrich your musical experience.
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Captivating female jazz singers who have colored the history of jazz. Recommended jazz vocalists from around the world (11–20)
Someone To Watch Over MeBlossom Dearie
In a female jazz vocal scene strongly associated with rich, powerful voices, Blossom Dearie’s sweet, girlish tone may strike some as unusual.
Yet her delicate singing—unsurprising given her roots in a vocal group—overflows with a charm entirely different from that of many other female jazz singers.
Santa BabyEartha Kitt
Famous for the Christmas classic “Santa Baby”! The owner of that sultry, coquettish voice is the American performer Eartha Kitt.
Her distinctive tone—supple like a cat yet almost otherworldly—sticks with you after just one listen.
While rooted in jazz and cabaret, she also scored hits in disco, and her talents extended beyond music: she portrayed Catwoman in the TV series Batman.
Behind her sexy, sophisticated performances lies a powerful life story of overcoming poverty and speaking out as a social activist.
Chances are, you too will be captivated by that one-of-a-kind voice.
Don’t Go To StrangersEtta Jones
Etta Jones, a powerhouse once dubbed the “best-kept secret” of the American jazz scene.
Her soulful voice, infused with the warmth of blues and gospel, stands as an art form refined over a nearly 60-year career.
Her signature 1960 release, Don’t Go To Strangers, not only earned a Gold Record but was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
The mature performances she crafted in tandem with tenor saxophonist Houston Person convey the profound emotions of jazz without omission.
If you’re looking to experience a voice that warmly embraces the heart, immerse yourself in her world.
At LastEtta James
More than a jazz singer, Etta James made her mark in the blues and soul scenes, and I’d love to highlight her powerful vocals.
Incidentally, in the film Cadillac Records—which is based on Chicago’s blues label Chess Records—none other than Beyoncé plays Etta James.
Teach Me TonightNancy Wilson
Nancy Wilson, the American artist celebrated as a “song stylist” who gracefully transcended the boundaries of jazz.
After her debut in 1960, her 1964 single “(You Don’t Know) How Glad I Am” became a hit and won a Grammy Award.
Her performances—where a soprano-like voice that is both delicate and powerfully resonant blends with a rich expressive range spanning soul and pop—are sure to move listeners’ hearts.
Winning three Grammys over her lifetime and an Emmy for her own show, her talent truly marks her as a complete entertainer!
Open Your Eyes You Can FlyFlora Purim
Flora Purim, known as the Queen of Brazilian jazz, is a female singer who captivates listeners with her distinctive scat.
She began her career in her home country in the early 1960s, and in the 1970s gained international acclaim through her work with Chick Corea’s Return to Forever.
One of her signature works is the 1974 album “Stories to Tell.” Featuring collaborations with her husband, percussionist Airto Moreira, the album’s fusion of intricate rhythms and vocals is breathtaking.
It received high praise, including topping the DownBeat readers’ poll, and she was awarded a decoration in 2002.
Her music, endowed with expression that transcends words, is highly recommended for those who want to delve deeply into Latin jazz and fusion.
Captivating female jazz singers who color the history of jazz. Recommended jazz vocalists from around the world (21–30)
Cry Me A RiverDiana Krall
Among female jazz singers since the 1990s, the one who enjoys the most global recognition is undoubtedly Canada’s Diana Krall.
Her cool voice shines not only in swing but also in gentle ballads.
She is also a first-rate pianist, and the sight of her singing while playing the piano can truly be called a symbol of the modern jazz scene.