Captivating female jazz singers who illuminate the history of jazz. Recommended jazz vocals from around the world.
A jazz world woven from innate vocal talent and distinctive timing.
The voices of female jazz vocalists possess a mysterious allure that stirs the listener’s heart.
From legendary divas who captivate with silky phrasing and lustrous tone, to young artists who pursue new forms of expression through bold reinterpretations, we invite you into the realm of female singers cherished across generations.
They spin the deep emotions embedded in jazz through the delicate expressiveness unique to women.
Encountering such gemlike voices will surely enrich your musical experience.
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Captivating female jazz singers who color the history of jazz. Recommended jazz vocals from around the world (1–10)
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.
Teach Me TonightNancy Wilson
Nancy Wilson, the American artist celebrated as a “song stylist” who gracefully transcended the boundaries of jazz.
After her debut in 1960, her 1964 single “(You Don’t Know) How Glad I Am” became a hit and won a Grammy Award.
Her performances—where a soprano-like voice that is both delicate and powerfully resonant blends with a rich expressive range spanning soul and pop—are sure to move listeners’ hearts.
Winning three Grammys over her lifetime and an Emmy for her own show, her talent truly marks her as a complete entertainer!
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.
Captivating female jazz singers who have colored the history of jazz. Recommended jazz vocalists from around the world (11–20)
Cry Me A RiverJulie London
Julie London’s career began not as a jazz singer, but as an actress who broke through thanks to her beauty.
She didn’t achieve great success as an actress and once retired, but later returned to the spotlight as a jazz vocalist and found success as a singer.
Her husky voice, often described as “smoky,” was popular in Japan as well.
I Love You PorgyBillie Holiday
Billie Holiday, the female jazz singer also known by the nickname “Lady Day.
” Despite her illustrious career, including collaborations with legendary jazz giants such as Benny Goodman and Duke Ellington, she endured many hardships.
Yet her voice transcended the jazz scene and influenced countless artists.
Ain’t Got No, I Got LifeNina Simone
Nina Simone is recognized as a great singer whose influence extends beyond the jazz scene.
In addition to her achievements as a jazz vocalist, she was also an activist in the Civil Rights Movement, earning deep respect from Black musicians and artists.
Of course, her musicality—embracing a wide range of genres—is also a major part of her appeal.
At LastEtta James
More than a jazz singer, Etta James made her mark in the blues and soul scenes, and I’d love to highlight her powerful vocals.
Incidentally, in the film Cadillac Records—which is based on Chicago’s blues label Chess Records—none other than Beyoncé plays Etta James.