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.
- [2025] Classic Jazz Vocal Albums: Must-Listen Recommendations
- Recommended jazz vocals. The world’s greatest jazz singers.
- The Royal Road of Jazz: Classic modern jazz masterpieces. Popular tracks you should listen to at least once.
- [Start Here] Jazz Masterpieces: A Must-Listen Album Selection
- For lovers of husky voices: Female singers in Western music
- Gospel singers of the world. Masterpieces of gospel music, recommended popular songs.
- [For Beginners] Classic Modern Jazz Albums: Recommended Records to Start With
- A gem of a jazz classic that captures the arrival of spring, paired with a heartwarming story
- [Western Music] Female vocalists known for their beautiful voices
- Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas, from classics to hidden gems.
- A roundup of the greatest Western blues artists in history
- Classic Dixieland jazz tunes. Recommended popular songs.
- Karaoke songs in Western music that are easy for women in their 50s to sing. World classics and recommended popular songs.
Captivating female jazz singers who color the history of jazz. Recommended jazz vocalists from around the world (21–30)
On The Sunny Side Of The StreetKeely Smith
Keely Smith, the American singer hailed as the “Queen of Las Vegas Swing.” Though she won a Grammy for her lively duo with her husband, jazz musician Louis Prima, her prowess as a solo singer was equally exceptional.
Unpretentious in personality, yet once she took the stage her commanding performances captivated audiences—she was the idol of countless fans.
Masterful with ballads and praised for a voice that could make any song swing when she sang it, she kept performing right up into her later years—an undeniably cool legacy.
Cheek To CheekJane Monheit
This is a track from Jane Monheit’s third album.
Backed by a traditional combo-style performance, she sings confidently with a richly jazzy feel.
Combining remarkable vocal prowess with beauty, Jane Monheit is an artist who represents today’s jazz scene, and this is a song where you can enjoy her authentic, straight-ahead jazz sound.
Lullaby of birdlandChris Connor
Chris Connor, the American jazz singer who rose to fame as one of Stan Kenton’s celebrated “Kenton Girls,” captivated listeners with her husky, cool voice that seemed to carry the atmosphere of a city night.
Her tone blended effortlessly with any ensemble, from big bands to intimate piano trios.
Her body of work after signing with Atlantic Records in the 1950s is filled with masterpieces that solidified her sophisticated style.
Though cool, her singing also conveys a certain warmth that feels close to the heart, inviting listeners into the profound world of jazz.
You’ll find yourself entranced by her distinctive sense of space and expressive power.
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.
Beautiful LoveSophie Milman
This is a track from Canadian-born Sophie Milman’s second album.
Contrary to her sweet looks, she delivers a solid, jazzy performance.
The highlight is the intro, where her sultry, husky voice intertwines with the upright bass.
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.