The 100+ Best Female Jazz Singers, Ranked
- 1Côte d'Azur Concerts on Verve, Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas, Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas
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Known as the "First Lady of Song," this iconic artist possessed a three-octave range and had an unparalleled ability to scat, which earned her the admiration of musicians and audiences alike. With over 200 albums to her name and 13 Grammy Awards, she effortlessly bridged the gap between jazz and pop culture, becoming a household name. Her profound impact on jazz can be heard in the countless singers who have emulated her style, and her influence continues to shape the genre today.
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- 2Lady in Satin, Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday at Newport, The Best of Billie Holiday
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With a deeply emotional and soulful voice, she captivated listeners with her unique phrasing and ability to convey complex emotions through song. Despite a tumultuous personal life that often overshadowed her career, she remains one of the most celebrated and influential jazz vocalists in history. Her haunting yet beautiful interpretations of songs continue to resonate with fans around the world, solidifying her status as a true legend within the genre.
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- 3Giants of Jazz, Basie-Vaughan, How Long Has This Been Going On?
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Dubbed "The Divine One," her rich, powerful voice was matched by an astonishing range and flawless technique that allowed her to seamlessly transition between octaves. She rose to fame during the bebop era, collaborating with some of its biggest names while also enjoying commercial success as a solo artist. Her innovative approach to singing left an indelible mark on jazz history, inspiring countless artists who came after her.
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- 4The Very Best of Nina Simone, Nina Simone Sings the Blues, At Carnegie Hall
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A classically trained pianist turned singer-songwriter, she brought a depth and sophistication to jazz vocals that set her apart from her contemporaries. Known for tackling social issues through her music, she became an important voice during the civil rights movement, using her platform to fight for change. Her fearless artistry and uncompromising vision continue to inspire generations of musicians across various genres.
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- 5For Those in Love, A Slick Chick (On the Mellow Side), Dinah '62
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Often referred to as "The Queen of the Blues," she was known for her emotive delivery and exceptional vocal control, effortlessly transitioning between different styles. She achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success in her career, becoming one of the most popular artists of her time. Her influence on jazz and blues can still be heard today, with numerous singers citing her as a major inspiration.
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- 6At Last!, Tell Mama, I'd Rather Go Blind
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With a voice that could be both powerful and tender, she brought raw emotion to every song she sang. Though often associated with R&B and soul music, her roots were firmly planted in jazz, which informed her distinct style throughout her career. Her lasting impact on the genre is evident in the countless artists who have followed in her footsteps, blending jazz with more contemporary sounds.
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- 7In Person, The Swingin's Mutual!, A Nancy Wilson Christmas
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Combining elements of jazz, pop, and soul, she crafted a unique sound that resonated with listeners around the world. Known for her elegant stage presence and expressive vocals, she was able to convey a wide range of emotions through her music. Her versatility as an artist allowed her to enjoy a long and successful career spanning six decades, influencing generations of singers along the way.
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- 8Squeeze Me, The World's Greatest Blues Singer, 1923-1933 Empress of the Blues
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As one of the most prominent figures during the Harlem Renaissance, she played a crucial role in bringing jazz and blues to mainstream audiences. Known as "The Empress of the Blues," her powerful voice and commanding stage presence captivated listeners from all walks of life. Her groundbreaking work laid the foundation for future female jazz singers, paving the way for their success within the genre.
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- 9Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday at Newport, Boy Meets Girl, Carmen Sings Monk
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A skilled pianist turned vocalist, she was known for her impeccable phrasing and ability to interpret lyrics with unmatched emotional depth. She enjoyed a prolific career spanning five decades, collaborating with some of the biggest names in jazz while also achieving success as a solo artist. Her innovative approach to singing continues to inspire vocalists today, solidifying her place in jazz history.
- 10Merry From Lena, Stormy Weather, Seasons of a Life
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A trailblazer in every sense of the word, she broke down barriers as an African American woman in Hollywood while also making a name for herself as a talented jazz vocalist. Her sultry voice and glamorous image made her a star both on screen and off, earning her legions of devoted fans. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her career, she remained committed to her artistry, leaving a lasting impact on the world of jazz.
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- 11Love Letters / Feeling Good, The End of the World / The Wonderful World Of, Ultra-Lounge
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With her smoky voice and sultry delivery, she became one of the most popular jazz vocalists of the 1950s and '60s. Known for her understated approach to singing, she often eschewed flashy vocal acrobatics in favor of subtle emotion and nuance. Her timeless appeal continues to captivate listeners today, proving that sometimes less is more when it comes to great jazz singing.
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- 12Christmas Songs, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, When I Look in Your Eyes
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A gifted pianist and singer, she has become one of the most recognizable voices in contemporary jazz. With multiple Grammy Awards and millions of albums sold worldwide, she has successfully brought jazz to mainstream audiences while maintaining her artistic integrity. Her velvety voice and elegant style have solidified her status as a modern jazz icon, influencing a new generation of singers.
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- 13White Christmas, Christmas Carousel, Giants of Jazz
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An accomplished singer-songwriter with a distinctive voice, she was known for her ability to imbue each song with passion and emotion. Throughout her career, she enjoyed success across various genres including pop, blues, and jazz, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Her influence can be heard in countless singers who followed in her footsteps, blending different styles to create their own unique sound.
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- 14The Calling: Celebrating Sarah Vaughan, Good Night, and Good Luck.
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A powerhouse vocalist with a rich, expressive tone, she has been at the forefront of contemporary jazz for over three decades. With multiple Grammy Awards under her belt and collaborations with some of the biggest names in music, she has earned a reputation as one of the genre's most respected and influential artists. Her innovative approach to singing has inspired a new generation of jazz vocalists, ensuring her legacy will live on for years to come.
- 15Don't Go to Strangers, From the Heart, The Best of Etta Jones: The Prestige Singles
Despite often being overshadowed by her more famous namesake, she was a talented vocalist in her own right, known for her warm, emotive voice and impressive range. She enjoyed a successful career spanning six decades, working with some of the biggest names in jazz while also achieving success as a solo artist. Her contributions to the genre have left a lasting impact, inspiring countless singers who came after her.
- 16Lady Soul, I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You, Young
While primarily known as the "Queen of Soul," her roots were firmly planted in jazz, which informed her groundbreaking work throughout her career. With an unparalleled voice and ability to convey deep emotion through song, she became one of the most iconic and influential artists of all time. Though often associated with other genres, her impact on jazz is undeniable, with many singers citing her as a major inspiration.
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- 17Ray Charles and Betty Carter, Inside Betty Carter, I Can't Help It
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A fearless improviser known for pushing boundaries within the genre, she was revered by fellow musicians for her innovative approach to singing and unmatched technical prowess. Throughout her career, she worked tirelessly to promote and preserve jazz music, mentoring young artists and even starting her own record label. Her dedication to the art form ensured that it would continue to thrive long after she was gone, leaving an important legacy within the jazz community.
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- 18Back to Black, Frank, Lioness: Hidden Treasures
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With a distinctive voice that combined elements of jazz, soul, and R&B, she captured the hearts and minds of listeners around the world before tragically passing away at just 27 years old. Despite a short career marked by personal struggles, she managed to leave an indelible mark on the music industry, introducing a new generation to the sounds of classic jazz. Her enduring influence can be heard in countless contemporary artists who have followed in her footsteps.
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- 19Belly of the Sun, New Moon Daughter, Blue Light 'til Dawn
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With a rich, velvety voice and eclectic musical taste, she has become one of the most respected and innovative vocalists in contemporary jazz. Her ability to seamlessly blend different genres and styles has earned her numerous accolades and a devoted fan base around the world. As a trailblazer within the genre, she continues to inspire new generations of singers with her unique approach to music.
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- 20Gilberto with Turrentine, A Certain Smile, A Certain Sadness
A Brazilian singer known for her sweet, delicate voice, she played a crucial role in introducing bossa nova to international audiences in the early 1960s. Her effortless fusion of jazz and Brazilian music helped pave the way for future artists who would explore similar sounds. Though often associated with one particular song, her contributions to jazz go far beyond that hit, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.
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- 21You Won't Forget Me, I Remember Miles, I Love You
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A gifted pianist as well as vocalist, she was known for her intimate performances that showcased her exceptional musicianship and deep understanding of the jazz tradition. With a career spanning five decades, she worked with some of the biggest names in music while also achieving success as a solo artist. Her contributions to the genre have left a lasting impact, inspiring countless singers who came after her.
- 22This is Anita, Anita O'Day Sings the Winners, Anita O'Day
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Known as "The Jezebel of Jazz," she was a fearless performer who pushed boundaries both musically and socially during her long career. With a distinctive voice characterized by its sharp wit and almost conversational style, she became one of the most respected vocalists in jazz history. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her life, including addiction and imprisonment, she remained committed to her artistry until the very end.
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- 23Come Away With Me, Feels Like Home, The Fall
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With a warm, soulful voice and an ability to effortlessly blend jazz with elements of pop, country, and folk, she has become one of the most successful artists of her generation. Since releasing her debut album in 2002, she has sold millions of records worldwide and earned numerous awards for her work. Her crossover appeal has introduced countless listeners to the world of jazz while also pushing the boundaries of what the genre can be.
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- 24My One and Only Thrill, Worrisome Heart, The Absence
With a voice that's both sultry and haunting, she has emerged as one of the most captivating artists in contemporary jazz. Drawing on influences from various genres, including blues and world music, her distinctive sound has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base around the globe. Her innovative approach to songwriting and vocal performance continues to inspire a new generation of jazz singers.
- 25
As the lead singer of the eponymous band, her smooth, sultry voice has captivated listeners around the world for over three decades. Though often associated with R&B and soul music, her roots are firmly planted in jazz, which has informed her distinct sound throughout her career. Her enduring influence on the genre is evident in the countless artists who have followed in her footsteps, blending jazz with more contemporary sounds to create their own unique styles.
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- 26Blossom Dearie Sings Comden and Green, Blossom Dearie, May I Come In?
With a light, girlish voice that belied her sophisticated musicianship, she was a unique figure within the world of jazz singing. Known for her clever interpretations of standards and witty original compositions, she enjoyed a long and varied career that spanned five decades. Her whimsical style continues to charm listeners today, proving that there's always room for innovation within the genre.
- 27Christmas With You, Unforgettable: With Love, This Will Be Natalie Cole's Everlasting Love
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As the daughter of legendary singer Nat King Cole, she inherited not only his incredible talent but also his deep love for jazz music. With a powerful voice and magnetic stage presence, she carved out her own successful career in the industry, earning multiple Grammy Awards along the way. Her influence on the genre is undeniable, as she continued her father's legacy while also inspiring countless artists who came after her.
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- 28Straight Ahead, Wholly Earth, Devil's Got Your Tongue
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A fiercely independent artist known for her emotive delivery and thought-provoking lyrics, she used her platform to address social issues and fight for civil rights. Throughout her career, she collaborated with some of the most prominent jazz musicians of her time, cementing her status as an important figure within the genre. Her fearless artistry and commitment to social justice continue to inspire generations of musicians across various genres.
- 29Christmas With Rosemary Clooney, A Very Special Christmas With Rosemary Clooney, Irving Berlin's "White Christmas"
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A talented vocalist with a warm, rich tone, she enjoyed success as both a pop singer and an accomplished jazz artist throughout her career. With numerous hit records and collaborations with some of the biggest names in music under her belt, she left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Her contributions to jazz have inspired countless singers who followed in her footsteps, showcasing the enduring appeal of great vocal artistry.
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- 30That Bad Eartha, My Heart Belongs to Daddy, Purr-fect: Greatest Hits
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A true entertainer in every sense of the word, she captivated audiences with her sultry voice and magnetic stage presence throughout her long career. Though often associated with pop music and acting, her roots were firmly planted in jazz, which informed her distinct style as both a singer and performer. Her contributions to the genre have left a lasting impact, inspiring countless artists who came after her.
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