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 (41–50)
Once upon a summertimeBetty Carter
Many of you have probably been captivated by the thrilling allure of jazz improvisation.
Betty Carter, an American vocalist, could truly be called a one-of-a-kind singer who embodied that very spontaneity using only her voice.
Her technique of subtly shifting the melody creates a sense of suspense, like a daring game that defies the listener’s expectations.
Because of her innovative style, there’s even a famous story that she was fired seven times from the Lionel Hampton band—a testament to the strength of her convictions.
In addition to winning a Grammy, she also devoted herself passionately to mentoring young musicians, a facet of her legacy well worth noting.
UntilCécile McLorin Salvant
Cécile McLorin Salvant is an American talent who shines brilliantly on the contemporary jazz scene.
Her music, which weaves together blues and even Baroque elements on a foundation of jazz, feels like listening to an epic story.
Her extraordinary gifts are evident in achievements such as winning the Grammy Award three years in a row and being hailed as a “genius” by the MacArthur Foundation.
Her ability to breathe new life into historical themes—exemplified by works like Mélusine, centered on a French folktale—is nothing short of remarkable.
With deep reverence for tradition and her own interpretive flair, her voice creates an entirely new world—one that will surely enrich your musical experience.
Song For My FatherDee Dee Bridgewater
Dee Dee Bridgewater, a great American artist who has been at the forefront of the jazz world for more than half a century.
Her overwhelming voice is rooted in jazz tradition yet brilliantly fuses soul, African music, and even French chansons.
Many listeners have surely felt their hearts dance to her playful scat, as heard on her tribute album dedicated to Ella Fitzgerald.
Her versatility, which has earned her not only Grammy Awards but also a Tony Award in the theater world, is nothing short of stunning.
Her performances, which embody the joy of music with her entire being, set listeners’ hearts free.
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.
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.
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.
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.