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.
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Recommended jazz vocals: The world's greatest jazz singers (31–40)
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.
From The StartLaufey
Laufey, the Icelandic artist, creates music that lets you sink into the feeling of watching a beautiful short film.
Her sound—where a deep, warm voice reminiscent of her beloved Ella Fitzgerald blends brilliantly with the sparkle of contemporary pop—is unforgettable after just one listen.
Grounded in jazz and classical training, her music strikes a perfect balance: nostalgic yet never dated.
With her striking presence singing while holding a cello, Laufey’s songs are sure to open a new door into the world of jazz.
My Foolish HeartJane Monheit
The jazz sound woven by Jane Monheit, who captivates with her beautiful tone and sultry vocals, radiates a truly unique allure.
This is a standard number brimming with originality, featuring a classic ballad masterfully sung in a bossa arrangement.
Speak LowDiane Schuur
Many of you may have experienced your hearts trembling at a soul-stirring singing voice.
Diane Schuur from the United States—affectionately known as “Deedles”—is a powerhouse vocalist who has won the Grammy Award twice.
Having overcome challenges from birth and devoted herself wholeheartedly to the path of music, it’s as if her very life infuses her voice with deep emotion.
Her perfect pitch, an astonishing 3.5-octave range, and expressive ability to glide effortlessly from jazz to blues combine beautifully, earning widespread acclaim from fans.
Her powerful yet warm voice is sure to enrich your musical experience.
Stormy WeatherEthel Waters
Ethel Waters shines brilliantly in the history of American entertainment.
She was truly a trailblazer who masterfully fused the deep emotion of the blues with the glamour of popular music.
Iconic songs like “Stormy Weather” and “Am I Blue?” have been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, testifying to her immeasurable achievements.
Having risen from adversity, she left a dazzling mark not only in music but also on Broadway and in film, and it’s as if her life story lends her voice its depth and conviction.
Listening to her performances, where the melancholy of the blues coexists with the sophistication of jazz, one can’t help but feel a powerful spirit that confronts hardship—an effect as mysterious as it is moving.