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 (21–30)

Lullaby of birdlandChris Connor

Chris Connor, the American jazz singer who rose to fame as one of Stan Kenton’s celebrated “Kenton Girls,” captivated listeners with her husky, cool voice that seemed to carry the atmosphere of a city night.

Her tone blended effortlessly with any ensemble, from big bands to intimate piano trios.

Her body of work after signing with Atlantic Records in the 1950s is filled with masterpieces that solidified her sophisticated style.

Though cool, her singing also conveys a certain warmth that feels close to the heart, inviting listeners into the profound world of jazz.

You’ll find yourself entranced by her distinctive sense of space and expressive power.

You Go to My HeadRachael Price

Though her voice is husky and youthful, she’s a vocalist whose velvety tone carries a rich, sultry depth.

It’s a masterpiece that conveys the pain of heartbreak and a sense of saudade, intertwining strength and vulnerability to exquisite effect.

A highly recommended track that pairs beautifully with the piano trio’s sound.

Autumn LeavesEva Cassidy

A husky, compelling singing voice and a country-tinged yet somehow lonely, heartrending sound are its charms.

This track is a full-on showcase of Eva Cassidy’s uniquely original world, as she sings classic jazz standards with both tenderness and power while accompanying herself on guitar.

Honeysuckle RoseAnita O’Day

Anita O’Day – Honeysuckle Rose
Honeysuckle RoseAnita O'Day

Anita O’Day, whose horn-like vocal approach creates a distinctive sense of rhythm.

With her husky voice, she joined the Stan Kenton Orchestra like Chris Connor and June Christy and achieved success.

Despite struggling with various addictions, she continued performing as a singer into her later years.

Cry Me A RiverJulie London

Julie London – Cry Me A River
Cry Me A RiverJulie London

She began her career as a film actress and went through a rather unpromising apprenticeship period before devoting herself to being a housewife.

After a divorce, she switched to a singing career, and from her first album she had a hit.

She mainly sang jazz standards and was loved by many listeners.