Famous American Jazz Singers

Stevie Wonder is an iconic American singer-songwriter, musician, and record producer known for reshaping contemporary R&B with his innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instruments. His influential career spans multiple genres including R&B, pop, soul, gospel, funk, and jazz. Wonder's critical success peaked in the 1970s with acclaimed albums like "Innervisions" and "Songs in the Key of Life," winning multiple Grammy Awards. He remains one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with a legacy of impactful music, activism, and recognition for his contributions to music and society.

Ella Fitzgerald was a legendary American jazz singer known as the "First Lady of Song" and the "Queen of Jazz". Renowned for her impeccable vocal abilities, including tone, diction, and improvisational skills, she rose to fame with the Chick Webb Orchestra before embarking on a successful solo career. Collaborating with iconic musicians like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, Fitzgerald recorded numerous acclaimed works, earning 14 Grammy Awards and prestigious honors for her contributions to music and the arts.

Joseph Harry Fowler Connick Jr. is a multi-talented American artist known for his achievements as a singer, pianist, composer, actor, and former television host. With over 30 million records sold worldwide, he ranks among the top 60 best-selling male artists in the U.S. His career highlights include seven top 20 U.S. albums, ten number-one U.S. jazz albums, and multiple Grammy and Emmy Awards. Connick has showcased his acting skills in various films, portraying diverse roles ranging from a tail gunner in Memphis Belle to a leading man in Hope Floats and a doctor in the Dolphin Tale series.

Boz Scaggs is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his successful solo career that began in 1969. He achieved commercial success with his 1976 album Silk Degrees, which produced hit singles like "Lido Shuffle" and "Lowdown". Scaggs continued to release platinum-certified albums such as Down Two Then Left and Middle Man. Despite a hiatus in the 1980s, he returned to recording and touring in 1988. Scaggs also played a pivotal role in the formation of the band Toto, showcasing his talent for music collaboration and production.

Peggy Lee was an iconic American jazz and popular music singer, songwriter, and actress with a career spanning seven decades. She started as a local radio vocalist before joining Benny Goodman's big band. Lee crafted a sophisticated image, writing music for films, acting, and creating conceptual record albums blending poetry and music. Known as the "Queen of American pop music," she recorded over 1,100 songs and co-wrote more than 270. Her influence and talent solidified her status as a legendary figure in the music industry.

Al Jarreau was a highly acclaimed American singer and songwriter known for his influential contributions to the pop and R&B music scene. His 1981 album, Breakin' Away, achieved significant success on the Billboard 200 chart and solidified his reputation as a talented artist. Winning multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, he was recognized for his exceptional vocal abilities and musical artistry. Jarreau's notable performances on projects like the theme song for Moonlighting and "We Are the World" further showcased his versatility and enduring impact on the music industry.

Bobby Darin was a versatile American musician, songwriter, and actor who excelled in various music genres such as jazz, pop, rock and roll, folk, swing, and country. He began his career as a songwriter before achieving commercial success with hit singles like "Splish Splash," "Dream Lover," "Mack the Knife," and "Beyond the Sea." Darin also ventured into acting, winning a Golden Globe Award for his film work. He later became politically active and contributed to Robert F. Kennedy's presidential campaign. Despite health challenges, Darin continued to showcase his musical talent until his untimely passing in 1973.

Roberta Flack is a retired American singer known for her Billboard-topping singles "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face", "Killing Me Softly with His Song", and "Feel Like Makin' Love". She influenced the quiet storm subgenre of contemporary R&B and was renowned for her interpretations of songs by artists like Leonard Cohen and The Beatles. Flack made history by being the first artist to win the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in two consecutive years, with her hits in 1973 and 1974.

Cab Calloway was an influential American jazz singer and bandleader known for his energetic scat singing and blending jazz with vaudeville. He led a popular dance band in the 1930s and 1940s, which included renowned musicians like Dizzy Gillespie and Ben Webster. Calloway achieved chart success with hits like "Minnie the Moocher" and was the first African-American musician to sell a million copies of a single record. He had a diverse career in stage, film, and television, receiving prestigious awards and honors for his contributions to jazz music.

Johnny Mathis is an American singer known for his popular music. He began his career with singles of standard music and later gained fame as an album artist. With numerous albums achieving gold or platinum status and charting on the Billboard charts, Mathis has received accolades such as the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame. He is recognized for his diverse discography, spanning various genres including traditional pop, soul, blues, and country music, as well as his influential musical inspirations.

Nancy Wilson was an American singer known for her versatile career spanning over five decades. Notable for hits like "(You Don't Know) How Glad I Am" and her rendition of "Guess Who I Saw Today", she recorded over 70 albums and won three Grammy Awards. Widely recognized as a singer of blues, jazz, R&B, pop, and soul, she was also praised as an exceptional actress and entertainer. Wilson preferred the title of "song stylist" and was affectionately nicknamed "Sweet Nancy", "The Baby", "Fancy Miss Nancy", and "The Girl With the Honey-Coated Voice".

Macy Gray is an accomplished American R&B and soul singer, known for her distinctive raspy voice heavily influenced by Billie Holiday. She has released ten studio albums and garnered five Grammy Award nominations, winning one. Gray is also recognized for her acting roles in various films, including Training Day, Spider-Man, and The Paperboy. Her international hit single "I Try" from the multi-platinum debut album On How Life Is solidified her place in the music industry. Gray's contributions earned her induction into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2014.

Pat Metheny is an influential American jazz guitarist and composer known for his versatile and innovative musical style. He led the Pat Metheny Group for over three decades and has since explored various musical settings, including small combos, duets, and solo performances. Metheny's music blends elements of progressive jazz, contemporary jazz, Latin jazz, and jazz fusion. With three gold albums and an impressive 20 Grammy Awards, he holds the unique distinction of winning Grammys in 10 different categories, showcasing his exceptional talent and prolific contributions to the world of jazz music.

Sarah Vaughan was an influential American jazz singer and pianist known for her remarkable vocal abilities. Dubbed "Sassy" and "The Divine One," she received numerous accolades during her career, including two Grammy Awards and an NEA Jazz Masters Award. Vaughan's talent and artistry were widely praised by critics and audiences alike, with many considering her voice to be one of the most magnificent of the 20th century. Her contributions to jazz music have left a lasting impact and solidified her legacy as a true legend in the genre.

Patty Andrews was part of the iconic Andrews Sisters singing group, known for their close harmony and swing music during the mid-20th century. With her sisters, Patty achieved immense success, selling millions of records and producing hit songs like "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" and "Rum and Coca-Cola." Their influence extended beyond their era, inspiring numerous artists who followed. Their talent earned them a spot in the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the Minnesota Rock/Country Hall of Fame, solidifying their legacy in music history.

Kate Smith was an American contralto known as The First Lady of Radio. She gained fame for her renditions of "God Bless America" and "When the Moon Comes over the Mountain." Smith was dubbed The Songbird of the South due to her immense popularity during World War II. She had a successful professional career as a singer, with her powerful voice captivating audiences and earning her widespread acclaim. Smith's contributions to music and radio solidified her legacy as an iconic figure in American entertainment history.

Laura Nyro was an American songwriter and singer known for her emotive three-octave mezzo-soprano voice. She achieved critical acclaim with albums like "Eli and the Thirteenth Confession" and "New York Tendaberry." Her songs were commercially successful, with artists like Barbra Streisand and the 5th Dimension recording them. Nyro's music gained wider recognition posthumously, with contemporaries like Elton John idolizing her. She had hits with songs such as "Wedding Bell Blues", "Eli's Comin'", and "Stoney End." Nyro was posthumously inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Leon Redbone was a renowned singer-songwriter and musician known for his expertise in jazz, blues, and Tin Pan Alley classics. With a distinct style that included a Panama hat, dark sunglasses, and black tie, he captivated audiences with his performances on stage, film, and television. Redbone's concerts were filled with comedy and guitar-playing skills, often featuring gags related to alcohol and claims of writing works predating his birth. He had a particular fondness for music from the Tin Pan Alley era and released a total of 18 albums during his career.

Al Martino was an American traditional pop and jazz singer known for his success in the music industry from the early 1950s to the mid-1970s. He was celebrated as one of the great Italian American pop crooners, with a distinctive vocal style that captivated audiences. Martino also found fame as an actor, notably portraying the character of singer Johnny Fontane in the classic film The Godfather. Throughout his career, he left a lasting impact on both the music and film industries with his talents and contributions.

Frankie Laine was an American singer and songwriter known for his versatile vocal abilities and wide-ranging musical styles. With a career spanning nearly 75 years, he earned nicknames such as "Mr. Rhythm" and "Old Leather Lungs." Laine's hits included a diverse range of songs, from Western-themed tracks to gospel, rock, jazz, and blues. He sang theme songs for Western film soundtracks and achieved enduring popularity with his music, as evidenced by the success of his compilation album on the UK Albums Chart long after his passing.

Jack Jones is an American singer and actor known for his straight-pop style with occasional ventures into jazz, particularly big-band and swing. He has achieved critical acclaim, winning two Grammy Awards and receiving five nominations in total. Jones is a seasoned performer who continues to entertain audiences worldwide, with a particularly strong following in Las Vegas. Some of his popular recordings include "Lollipops and Roses", "Wives and Lovers", "The Race Is On", "The Impossible Dream", and "Call Me Irresponsible". Additionally, he has lent his voice to iconic theme songs for television series and films.

Rickie Lee Jones is an American singer, musician, and songwriter known for her distinctive and eclectic style that blends rock, R&B, pop, soul, and jazz. With a career spanning five decades and 15 studio albums, she has received critical acclaim and commercial success. Jones has won two Grammy Awards and received multiple nominations for her work, showcasing her talent as a vocalist and composer. Her albums have achieved platinum and gold status, solidifying her place as a respected artist in the music industry.

Deana Martin is an American singer known for her versatile vocal talents and captivating performances. With a strong musical background inherited from her legendary father, Dean Martin, she has carved out a successful career in the music industry. Deana has released numerous albums and singles, showcasing her rich voice and passion for performing. She has entertained audiences worldwide with her engaging stage presence and timeless renditions of classic songs, solidifying her reputation as a respected and accomplished artist in the music world.

Dinah Washington was a highly acclaimed American singer and pianist, known as one of the most popular black female recording artists of the 1950s. With a primary focus on jazz vocals, she showcased her versatile talent by performing and recording in various styles including blues, R&B, and traditional pop music. Bestowed with the title "Queen of the Blues," Washington was recognized for her significant contributions to music. Her impressive career led to inductions into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame in 1986 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.

Roy Ayers is an influential American vibraphonist, record producer, and composer recognized for his contributions to jazz-funk and the acid jazz movement. He began his career as a post-bop jazz artist with Atlantic Records before transitioning to Polydor Records in the 1970s. Known as "The Godfather of Neo Soul," Ayers is renowned for his compositions, including "Everybody Loves the Sunshine," "Lifeline," and "No Stranger To Love." He holds the distinction of having more sampled hits by rappers than any other artist.

James Shigeta was a trailblazing American actor and singer of Japanese descent, known for his breakthrough roles in classic films such as The Crimson Kimono, Flower Drum Song, and Die Hard. His early career saw him defy stereotypes by securing romantic lead roles, paving the way for Asian American representation in media. Shigeta's talent also extended to his successful pop singing career in Japan and Australia. Recognized for his contributions, he won the Golden Globe Award and was honored as one of the "Most Inspiring Asian-Americans of All Time."

Phyllis Linda Hyman was an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her expansive contralto range. Her music career spanned from the late 1970s to the early 1990s, with hits like "You Know How to Love Me" and "Living All Alone." Hyman also gained recognition for her covers of popular songs. She showcased her talent on Broadway in the musical revue Sophisticated Ladies, based on Duke Ellington's music, earning accolades and a Tony Award nomination. Tragically, she passed away in 1995 after struggling with mental health issues.

Al Di Meola is an accomplished American guitarist known for his contributions to jazz fusion and world music. He made his debut with Return to Forever in 1974 and later collaborated with Stomu Yamashta in the supergroup Go. His career in the 1970s and 1980s saw the release of successful albums such as Land of the Midnight Sun, Elegant Gypsy, Casino, and Friday Night in San Francisco. Di Meola's work has garnered both critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying his reputation as a highly skilled and versatile musician.

Valarie Pettiford is a versatile American performer known for her work in stage productions, television, and music. With a Tony Award nomination for her role in the Broadway show Fosse, she has showcased her talent as a skilled actress and dancer. Pettiford's portrayal of Deirdre "Big Dee Dee" LaFontaine Thorne on the UPN sitcom Half & Half further solidified her reputation as a talented and versatile artist. In addition to acting, she has also demonstrated her vocal abilities as a jazz singer, showcasing her multifaceted professional capabilities.

Bob Crosby was an American jazz singer and bandleader, known for leading the Bob-Cats, a New Orleans Dixieland-style jazz octet formed around 1935. He appeared on TV shows like The Gisele MacKenzie Show and The Jack Benny Program, where he took over as bandleader. Crosby also hosted his own TV variety show, The Bob Crosby Show, from 1953 to 1957. He received two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to television and radio.

Keely Smith was an accomplished American jazz and popular music singer who gained fame in the 1950s performing with her then-husband Louis Prima. Their successful partnership led to numerous hit records, television appearances, and acclaim in the entertainment industry. Smith's solo career in the 1960s further showcased her vocal talent and versatility, solidifying her reputation as a standout performer. Together with Prima, she achieved major success, earning a Grammy Award in 1959 for their chart-topping hit, "That Old Black Magic."

Phoebe Snow was an American roots music singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her hit songs "Poetry Man" and "Harpo's Blues". She was also recognized for her guest vocals on Paul Simon's "Gone at Last". Her unique contralto voice spanned four octaves, described as a bluesy growl. Snow ventured into commercial jingles for various U.S. products in the 1980s and 1990s. She achieved success in Australia with five top 100 albums in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Additionally, she recorded a gospel album with Sisters of Glory in 1995.

Meshell Ndegeocello is an accomplished American singer-songwriter, poet, and bassist known for her diverse musical influences spanning funk, soul, jazz, hip hop, reggae, and rock. Throughout her career, she has garnered significant critical acclaim, receiving eleven Grammy Award nominations and winning two. She is credited with contributing to the "neo-soul movement" and has worked under the name Meshell Suhaila Bashir-Shakur for some of her mid-career projects. Overall, Meshell Ndegeocello's professional life is characterized by innovation, versatility, and musical excellence.

Billy Eckstine was an influential American jazz and pop singer and bandleader known for his rich bass-baritone voice. He was a prominent figure during the swing and bebop eras, recognized for his almost operatic vocal style. In 2019, he received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for his significant contributions to recording. His rendition of "I Apologize" earned the Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 1999. Eckstine's suave voice and approach to popular songs inspired numerous singers, solidifying his legacy as a talented and influential band leader.

Carmen McRae was a prominent American jazz singer known for her significant contributions to the genre. With a career spanning several decades, she established herself as one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century. McRae's unique style was characterized by her distinctive behind-the-beat phrasing and ironic approach to interpreting lyrics, setting her apart from her contemporaries. Her professional life was marked by numerous successful recordings, collaborations with renowned musicians, and performances that solidified her legacy as a jazz icon.

Big Joe Turner, a prominent American blues shouter, played a pivotal role in the development of rock and roll music. He achieved great fame in the 1950s with hits like "Shake, Rattle and Roll," but his career spanned several decades, starting in the 1920s and enduring into the 1980s. Turner's distinctive voice and energetic performances earned him the title of "the premier blues shouter of the postwar era." His influence on the music industry was so significant that songwriter Doc Pomus credited him with laying the foundation for rock and roll. Turner was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 for his lasting impact on the genre.

Michael Franks is a renowned American singer and songwriter known for his contributions to the quiet storm movement. His impressive professional career includes collaborations with notable artists such as Patti Austin, Art Garfunkel, Brenda Russell, Claus Ogerman, Joe Sample, and David Sanborn. Franks' songwriting prowess is evident through his works being recorded by a diverse array of artists including Shirley Bassey, The Carpenters, Diana Krall, Patti LaBelle, and Natalie Cole, cementing his reputation as a prolific and influential figure in the music industry.

Teresa Brewer was a versatile American singer known for blending various musical genres, including pop, country, jazz, R&B, and novelty songs. She achieved widespread popularity in the 1950s as one of the era's most prolific female artists, recording approximately 600 songs. Brewer's professional career was marked by her ability to captivate audiences with her diverse musical talents and her unique style. Her contributions to the music industry solidified her reputation as a dynamic and influential singer during that period.

Blossom Dearie was an American jazz singer and pianist known for her light and girlish voice. She performed regularly in London and New York City, collaborating with renowned musicians such as Johnny Mercer, Miles Davis, Jack Segal, Johnny Mandel, Duncan Lamont, Bob Dorough, Dave Frishberg, and Jay Berliner. Dearie's professional life was marked by a successful career in the jazz industry, where she showcased her distinctive vocal style and talent as a pianist through numerous engagements and collaborations with prominent artists.

Ruth Brown was an influential American singer-songwriter and actress known as the "Queen of R&B". She brought a pop music style to R&B in the 1950s with hit songs like "So Long" and "(Mama) He Treats Your Daughter Mean". Her contributions to Atlantic Records earned her the title "the house that Ruth built". Brown's career saw a resurgence in the 1980s, during which she advocated for musicians' rights, leading to the founding of the Rhythm and Blues Foundation. She received numerous awards, including a Tony Award and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Abbey Lincoln, known as a prominent American jazz vocalist, left a significant mark on the music industry with her emotive performances of standards and original compositions. Beyond her vocal talents, she stood out as a civil rights activist during the 1960s, using her platform to advocate for social change. Lincoln's career was characterized by her ability to deliver heartfelt renditions of songs, showcasing her unique artistry and leaving a lasting impact on the jazz world through her powerful storytelling and musical expression.

Annie Ross was a British-American singer and actress renowned for her role in the jazz vocal trio Lambert, Hendricks & Ross. She was a pioneer of the vocalese style of jazz singing, characterized by her dreamy yet watchful demeanor that epitomized 1950s cool. Recognized as a Jazz Master by the National Endowment for the Arts, Ross was acclaimed by critic Kenneth Tynan as a "fallen angel" whose performances evoked a mix of emotions, captivating audiences with her unique talent and charisma.

Nina Simone was a versatile American musician known for her exceptional talents as a singer, songwriter, pianist, composer, and arranger. She made a significant impact as a civil rights activist, using her music to advocate for social change. Simone's music transcended genres, encompassing classical, folk, gospel, blues, jazz, R&B, and pop. She released over 40 albums during her career and was recognized as one of the greatest singers of all time by Rolling Stone. Simone's unique blend of expressive singing and classical piano influences set her apart as a legendary figure in the music industry.

Stacey Kent is an acclaimed American jazz singer known for her captivating vocals and elegant interpretations of classic jazz standards. She has been recognized with a Grammy Award nomination and the prestigious Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French Minister of Culture. Kent collaborates closely with her husband, saxophonist, and composer Jim Tomlinson, who produces her albums and co-writes songs with his lyricist partner, renowned novelist Kazuo Ishiguro. Together, they create enchanting music that showcases Kent's remarkable talent and artistry.

Della Reese was a versatile American artist with a career spanning seven decades. She started as a successful jazz and gospel singer, achieving recognition with hits like "Don't You Know?". In the late 1960s, she transitioned to television hosting her own talk show. Reese also ventured into acting, starring in films alongside notable actors. Her most significant role came in the religious television drama "Touched by an Angel", where she played the leading role of Tess, solidifying her status as a respected and talented performer.

Billie Holiday was an influential American jazz and swing music singer known as "Lady Day." She made a significant impact on jazz music and pop singing with her unique vocal style, inspired by jazz instrumentalists. Holiday began her career singing in Harlem nightclubs before signing with Brunswick in 1935. She achieved mainstream success in the 1930s and 1940s with hits like "What a Little Moonlight Can Do." Despite legal troubles and drug abuse, Holiday continued to perform successfully into the 1950s, with notable concerts at Carnegie Hall. Her final recordings, including the album "Lady in Satin," received mixed reactions but were commercially successful. Holiday posthumously received four Grammy Awards and was inducted into multiple music halls of fame.

George Jessel was a versatile American entertainer known for his talents in acting, singing, songwriting, and film production. He gained fame for his comedic performances and became widely recognized as the "Toastmaster General of the United States" for his skilled emceeing at various events. Jessel's career highlights include originating the title role in the stage production of The Jazz Singer, a significant achievement in the entertainment industry. Despite limited roles in movies, he managed to establish a lasting legacy as a multitalented entertainer.

Sunny Ozell is an American singer and songwriter based in Los Angeles, California. She has established herself as a talented artist in the music industry, known for her soulful vocals and compelling songwriting. With a passion for creating authentic and emotive music, Sunny has garnered a dedicated following of fans. Her work reflects a blend of genres, showcasing her versatility as a musician. Collaborating with various artists and performing at notable venues, Sunny Ozell continues to make a mark in the music world.

Charles Brown was a prominent American singer and pianist known for his soft-toned, slow-paced nightclub style that greatly influenced West Coast blues during the 1940s and 1950s. He achieved significant success between 1949 and 1952, with seven Top 10 hits on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart. Brown's best-selling recordings included popular tracks like "Driftin' Blues" and "Merry Christmas Baby", solidifying his reputation as a talented musician and contributing to his lasting legacy in the music industry.

Betty Carter was a renowned American jazz singer celebrated for her exceptional improvisational style, scatting prowess, and intricate musical abilities. She captivated audiences with her remarkable vocal talent, innovative interpretation of lyrics, and melodies. Widely recognized for her unique approach to jazz singing, Carter's artistry was admired by fellow musicians and critics alike. Her influence in the jazz world was profound, earning her the distinction of being hailed as the quintessential jazz singer by vocalists like Carmen McRae.

Jack Teagarden was an influential American jazz trombonist and singer known for his exceptional talents in both fields. He was recognized as the leading jazz trombone player in the pre-bebop era, showcasing his virtuosity in performances and recordings. Teagarden began his career as a sideman for prominent figures such as Paul Whiteman and Louis Armstrong, establishing himself as a respected and sought-after musician in the jazz world. His contributions to jazz music, both instrumentally and vocally, solidified his legacy as a versatile and accomplished artist.

Dolores Gray was an accomplished American actress and singer known for her remarkable talent on stage. Throughout her career, she garnered critical acclaim and recognition, including two Tony Award nominations for Best Lead Actress in a Musical. Her exceptional performances on Broadway showcased her versatility and range as a performer. Gray's dedication to her craft and powerful presence captivated audiences, earning her a well-deserved place among the top talents in the entertainment industry. Her Tony Award win solidified her legacy as a celebrated star.

Tex Beneke was an American saxophonist, singer, and bandleader known for his collaborations with bandleader Glenn Miller and other prominent musicians. He led his own band and worked with artists such as Eydie Gormé, Henry Mancini, and Ronnie Deauville. Beneke's notable recordings include solos on "In The Mood" and vocals on "Chattanooga Choo Choo" with the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Jazz critic Will Friedwald recognizes him as a significant blues singer of the early 1940s big band era.

Bessie Smith was a pioneering African-American blues singer known as the "Empress of the Blues" during the Jazz Age. She rose to fame as the most popular female blues singer of the 1930s, influencing fellow artists in both blues and jazz. Starting her career by performing on street corners, she later toured with Ma Rainey before launching a successful recording career with Columbia Records in 1923. Despite her tragic death in a car crash at the age of 43, Smith's legacy as one of the greatest singers of her era endures.

Joe Williams was a prominent American jazz singer known for his work with big bands like the Count Basie Orchestra and the Lionel Hampton Orchestra, as well as with small combos. He showcased his vocal talents in various performances and recordings, gaining recognition for his rich baritone voice and captivating stage presence. Williams also ventured into acting, appearing in two films with the Basie orchestra. Throughout his career, he left a lasting impact on the jazz music scene with his soulful interpretations and dynamic performances.

Helen O'Connell was a prominent American singer, actress, and hostess known for her influential contributions to the music industry during the 1940s. She gained widespread recognition as a quintessential big band singer, captivating audiences with her exceptional vocal talents and engaging stage presence. O'Connell's professional career was marked by numerous successful performances, collaborations with renowned musicians, and a lasting impact on the big band era. Her legacy as a versatile entertainer continues to be celebrated in the realm of music history.

Norah Jones is an accomplished American singer-songwriter and pianist who has achieved significant success in the music industry. With multiple awards and over 50 million records sold worldwide, Jones is recognized for her fusion of jazz with country, blues, folk, and pop. Her debut album, "Come Away with Me," was a massive hit, earning her five Grammy Awards. Subsequent albums like "Feels Like Home," "Not Too Late," and "The Fall" also achieved platinum status and critical acclaim. Jones further expanded her artistic endeavors with a feature film debut in 2007.

Rachael Price is an accomplished jazz and blues singer recognized for her role as the lead vocalist of the band Lake Street Dive. She gained prominence through her captivating performances and soulful voice, earning critical acclaim for her unique style and musical versatility. With a strong background in music education, she honed her skills at the New England Conservatory of Music, showcasing her talent and passion for music on various platforms. Rachael Price continues to inspire audiences worldwide with her exceptional vocal abilities and contributions to the music industry.

Celeste Epiphany Waite is a British singer and songwriter who began her career in 2014 by providing vocals for electronic producers and self-publishing content on SoundCloud. She made her solo debut with the EP The Milk & the Honey in 2017 and released her second EP Lately in 2019 after signing with Polydor Records. Celeste gained recognition in 2019 by topping the BBC's Sound of... poll and winning the Rising Star Award at the Brit Awards. Her debut album Not Your Muse was released in 2021 and achieved critical acclaim, leading to multiple award nominations, including at the Brit Awards and the Mercury Prize. In 2021, she was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song for co-writing "Hear My Voice" from the film The Trial of the Chicago 7.

Olu Dara Jones is a versatile American musician known for his proficiency as a cornetist, guitarist, and singer. His musical career is marked by a blend of jazz, blues, and folk influences, showcasing his exceptional talent and creativity. Olu Dara has made significant contributions to the music industry through his unique style and innovative approach to performance. His work has earned him recognition and respect among fans and peers alike, establishing him as a respected figure in the world of music.

Kay Starr was an American singer known for her success in the late 1940s and 1950s. With roots in jazz, she also ventured into pop, jazz, and country genres. Starr's versatile voice and engaging performances captivated audiences, earning her a prominent place in the music industry. Throughout her career, she showcased her talent through various genres, showcasing her ability to excel in different styles of music. Starr's legacy as a versatile and accomplished singer continues to influence artists across different genres to this day.

Mark Murphy was an influential American jazz singer known for his innovative vocal improvisations. He recorded 51 albums under his own name and wrote lyrics to jazz tunes like "Stolen Moments" and "Red Clay". Throughout his career, he was recognized for his talent, winning the Down Beat magazine readers' jazz poll for Best Male Vocalist multiple times. Murphy was also a five-time nominee for the Grammy Award for Best Vocal Jazz Performance, showcasing his impact and contribution to the jazz music industry.

Al Hibbler was an American baritone vocalist known for his work with Duke Ellington's orchestra and his success as a solo artist in the pop music scene. He is recognized for his contributions to rhythm and blues music and is considered a bridge between R&B and traditional pop music. While not categorized as a jazz singer, he is highly regarded as an exceptional interpreter of twentieth-century popular songs. Hibbler collaborated with some of the top jazz musicians of his era, showcasing his talent and versatility in the music industry.

Willie Colón is an American Salsa musician and social activist known for his multifaceted talents. He started as a trombonist but also excels in singing, songwriting, producing, and acting. Recognized as a pioneer in Salsa music, he is a best-selling artist within the genre. Colón played a pivotal role in the emerging New York City Salsa scene linked with Fania Records. Noteworthy for adopting a gangster image on his album covers early on, he has also been active in New York City politics since the 1980s.

Renee Olstead is a multi-talented American actress, singer, and marriage and family therapist. She has been active in the entertainment industry since childhood, gaining recognition for her roles on television shows such as Still Standing and The Secret Life of the American Teenager. Olstead is also a talented jazz musician with four studio albums to her credit. Her diverse career showcases her versatility and passion for the arts, as she continues to excel in various creative pursuits.

Ella Mae Morse was an influential American singer known for her recordings in the 1940s and 1950s that blended jazz, blues, and country music, contributing to the development of rock and roll. Her collaboration with Freddie Slack and His Orchestra on hits like "Cow-Cow Boogie" and "Get On Board, Little Chillun" helped Capitol Records achieve success and marked her as one of the first white singers to chart on R&B charts. Morse received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 and continued to perform and tour until the 1990s.

Ted Lewis, known as "Mr. Entertainment," was an American bandleader, singer, and musician who captivated audiences with his unique blend of jazz, comedy, and nostalgia. Leading a band that toured extensively, Lewis's stage show was a pre and post-World War II sensation. His moniker, "Is Everybody Happy?" resonated with fans, making him a household name. With his energetic performances and charismatic persona, Lewis left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry until his passing from lung failure in 1971.

Barbara Hendricks is a renowned American operatic soprano and concert singer. She has established herself as a prominent figure in the European music scene since 1977, residing in Basel, Switzerland since 1985. As a citizen of Sweden through marriage to a Swedish national, Hendricks has captivated audiences worldwide with her exceptional vocal talent. With a career spanning decades, she has garnered acclaim for her performances in operas and concerts, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and accomplished artist in the realm of classical music.

James Andrew Rushing, known as Jimmy Rushing, was an American singer and pianist renowned for his time as the featured vocalist of Count Basie's Orchestra from 1935 to 1948. Nicknamed "Mr. Five by Five" due to his stout stature, Rushing's powerful voice spanned from baritone to tenor, earning him a reputation as a blues shouter. Basie praised him as unparalleled in blues vocals, though Rushing considered himself a ballad singer. His influential career included popular recordings like "Going to Chicago" and "Harvard Blues."

Tim Hauser was a renowned singer and founding member of The Manhattan Transfer, a vocal group known for their harmonious blend of jazz, pop, and R&B. Throughout his career, Hauser achieved great success with the group, winning an impressive 10 Grammy Awards. His dedication and talent as a vocalist contributed significantly to the group's success and enduring legacy in the music industry. Hauser's passion for music and outstanding vocal abilities solidified his reputation as a respected and influential figure in the world of a cappella and vocal jazz.

Narada Michael Walden is a renowned American musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his versatile career spanning various genres. Beginning as a drummer in jazz fusion, he collaborated with notable artists like John McLaughlin and Chick Corea. Transitioning into songwriting and producing, he worked with R&B icons like Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin. Walden also made significant contributions as a drummer for Journey and a co-producer on their album "Freedom." His impressive professional journey showcases his talent and adaptability in the music industry.

Thelma Carpenter was an American jazz singer and actress who made a significant impact on the entertainment industry. She gained recognition for her role as "Miss One", the Good Witch of the North, in the movie The Wiz. Carpenter's professional life was characterized by her powerful vocal abilities and captivating stage presence. She was known for her contributions to jazz music and her memorable performances on screen. Throughout her career, Thelma Carpenter showcased her talent and versatility, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.

Mildred Bailey, a Native American jazz singer in the 1930s, was known as "The Queen of Swing," "The Rockin' Chair Lady," and "Mrs. Swing." She recorded several popular songs and had three number one hits on the charts. Bailey's talent and unique vocal style made her a prominent figure in the jazz music scene. Her contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated, and her influence on swing music remains significant to this day.

Susannah McCorkle was a prominent American jazz singer known for her distinctive voice and interpretive skills. She gained recognition for her emotive performances and unique phrasing, earning critical acclaim in the jazz world. McCorkle released numerous albums showcasing her talent and versatility as a vocalist, often drawing inspiration from the Great American Songbook. She was praised for her ability to convey deep emotions through her music, establishing herself as a respected figure in the jazz community during her career.