RAG MusicJazz
Lovely jazz

Recommended jazz vocals. The world’s greatest jazz singers.

Jazz fills you with exhilaration while maintaining a calm atmosphere.

It’s one of the most familiar genres of music, yet because of its long history, many people may feel it’s a bit “intimidating.”

For those people, we’ve picked out some of the world’s greatest jazz vocalists.

In the first half, we focus on the classic vocalists who helped shape jazz; in the second half, we feature vocalists leading today’s jazz scene.

Whether you’re well-versed in jazz or brand new to it, we’ve put together a list you can enjoy.

Please relax and enjoy it to the very end.

Recommended Jazz Vocals: The World’s Great Jazz Singers (51–60)

Something CoolJune Christy

The title of this song means “cold drink,” not “cool,” but when I listen to this version, it feels very urban and stylishly cool.

That said, the lyrics are more like a reminiscence by a woman who’s fallen on hard times.

Afro BlueAbbey Lincoln

Her soulful, wistful vocal delivery was hailed as a reincarnation of Billie Holiday.

Beyond being a vocalist, she also has a career as an actress.

In this track, you can feel the resilient core of the deeper history of jazz, which has long fought against anti-Black discrimination.

CaravanCyrille Aimée

Caravan – Cyrille Aimée Live at Birdland
CaravanCyrille Aimée

Her cute singing voice, richly emotional expressiveness, and high-level vocal skills that let you enjoy standard numbers in a completely fresh sound are all wonderful.

Not only does she deliver enchanting standards in her own colors, but the way she weaves in original, vibrant scat is another highlight.

Waltz For DebbyEliane Elias

Eliane Elias – Waltz For Debby
Waltz For DebbyEliane Elias

They offer comforting jazz with a warm, tender, and slightly sultry singing voice, paired with simple yet sophisticated piano playing that avoids unnecessary showiness.

It’s a track you can enjoy pleasantly, as a lively standard number rides a delightful swinging rhythm.

BUTTERFLYGretchen Parlato

Gretchen Parlato – Live in NYC: BUTTERFLY
BUTTERFLYGretchen Parlato

Her delicate, gentle singing voice is wonderfully soothing and enchanting—like a twilight breeze caressing your cheek.

Not only her voice, but the way she naturally enjoys and expresses music with her whole body lets you fully feel her own JAZZ sound in this track.