Top 100 Female Jazz Singers

Overview of Female Jazz Singers

Jazz vocalists are an integral part of the rich tapestry of the jazz genre. These talented artists use their voices as instruments, improvising and interpreting melodies with a unique flair. Female jazz singers have played a significant role in shaping the history of jazz, both as solo performers and collaborators with renowned musicians.

Throughout history, female jazz singers have evolved alongside the genre itself. In the early days of jazz, vocalists like Bessie Smith and Ethel Waters paved the way for future generations with their powerful voices and expressive interpretations. As the genre progressed, artists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Sarah Vaughan emerged, showcasing their distinctive styles and leaving an indelible mark on jazz.

Criteria for Ranking the Top 100 Female Jazz Singers

Compiling a list of the top 100 female jazz singers is a daunting task, as it requires carefully considering various factors. The list takes into account the artists’ influence on the genre, their technical skill, and their contribution to the advancement of jazz vocal performance. The goal is to strike a balance between recognizing legendary figures and acknowledging emerging talents.

To create this comprehensive list, criteria such as vocal range, improvisational ability, phrasing, and overall impact were evaluated. Additionally, the artists’ discography, critical acclaim, and awards were considered. By taking these factors into account, the list strives to represent a diverse range of voices and styles within the jazz vocal tradition.

The Top 10 Female Jazz Singers

1. Ella Fitzgerald: Known as the “First Lady of Song,” Ella Fitzgerald’s voice was a marvel. Her vocal range and improvisational skills were unmatched, making her a pioneer of scat singing. With notable recordings like “A-Tisket, A-Tasket” and her iconic series of songbook albums, Ella left an indelible mark on jazz.
2. Billie Holiday: Billie Holiday’s emotive and deeply personal singing style captivated audiences. Her ability to convey raw emotion through her voice, as heard in “Strange Fruit” and “God Bless the Child,” solidified her as one of the greatest jazz singers of all time.
3. Sarah Vaughan: Known for her incredible vocal range and agility, Sarah Vaughan’s voice was a force to be reckoned with. Her rendition of “Misty” and her collaborations with other jazz legends showcased her extraordinary talent.
4. Nina Simone: Nina Simone’s unique blend of jazz, blues, and soul set her apart. Her powerful voice, heard in songs like “Feeling Good” and “I Put a Spell on You,” combined with her activism, made her an influential figure in both music and civil rights.
5. Peggy Lee: Peggy Lee’s sultry voice and captivating stage presence made her a jazz icon. Her hit songs like “Fever” and “Is That All There Is?” showcased her versatility and ability to embody different musical styles.
6. Carmen McRae: Carmen McRae’s warm and intimate vocals were a delight to listen to. Her interpretations of jazz standards, such as “The Man I Love” and “Skylark,” showcased her impeccable phrasing and musicality.
7. Abbey Lincoln: Abbey Lincoln’s distinctive voice and introspective lyrics made her an important figure in jazz. Her album “Abbey Is Blue” and her collaborations with jazz greats like Max Roach showcased her unique style.
8. Dee Dee Bridgewater: Dee Dee Bridgewater’s powerful and soulful voice has made her a standout in the jazz world. Her interpretations of songs like “Afro Blue” and “Good Morning Heartache” have garnered critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards.
9. Diana Krall: Diana Krall’s smooth and sophisticated voice has made her one of the most popular jazz singers of her generation. Her albums like “When I Look in Your Eyes” and “The Girl in the Other Room” have achieved both commercial success and critical acclaim.
10. Esperanza Spalding: Esperanza Spalding, a talented jazz bassist and vocalist, has brought a fresh perspective to the genre. Her album “Radio Music Society” won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album, solidifying her as a rising star in the jazz world.

The Remaining 90 Female Jazz Singers

The remaining 90 female jazz singers on the list can be grouped by era or style. Each artist has made significant contributions to the genre and deserves recognition. Some notable artists include:
– Etta James: Known for her soulful voice and bluesy style, Etta James brought a unique flavor to jazz.
– Melody Gardot: Melody Gardot’s sultry and haunting vocals have captivated audiences worldwide.
– Cassandra Wilson: Cassandra Wilson’s genre-defying approach and rich voice have made her a standout in contemporary jazz.

Recommended recordings for each artist can be found in various albums and compilations, allowing listeners to delve deeper into their works.

Honorable Mentions and Rising Stars

While the top 100 list represents the most influential female jazz singers, there are several noteworthy artists who deserve recognition. Vocalists like Dianne Reeves, Lizz Wright, and Cecile McLorin Salvant have all made significant contributions to the genre and continue to push boundaries with their unique styles and interpretations.

Emerging talents in the jazz vocal scene include artists like Veronica Swift, Jazzmeia Horn, and Kandace Springs. These rising stars are bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to jazz, ensuring the genre’s continued evolution.

Exploring Further: Jazz Singers to Discover

For those looking to explore more jazz vocalists, recommendations can be tailored to individual preferences. Fans of the classic jazz sound may enjoy discovering artists like Anita O’Day, Dinah Washington, and Ernestine Anderson. Those drawn to a more contemporary sound might find joy in exploring the works of Gretchen Parlato, Cyrille Aimée, or Becca Stevens.

It’s also worth exploring lesser-known artists who may not have made the top 100 list but still deserve attention. Artists like Jazzmeia Horn, China Moses, and Cyrille Aimée have all garnered critical acclaim for their unique contributions to the genre.

Influential Collaborations: Female Jazz Singers and Musicians

Throughout jazz history, collaborations between female jazz singers and musicians have resulted in some of the genre’s most iconic recordings. One such collaboration was the partnership between Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. Their albums together, such as “Ella and Louis” and “Porgy and Bess,” showcased their incredible chemistry and musicality.

Another notable collaboration was between Billie Holiday and Lester Young. Their recordings, including “Fine and Mellow” and “All of Me,” showcased their nuanced and emotional performances.

The Legacy of Female Jazz Singers

The legacy of female jazz singers is undeniable. These artists have not only shaped the genre but have also broken barriers and paved the way for future generations. Their contributions have influenced not only jazz but also popular music as a whole.

By using their voices as instruments, these women have inspired countless aspiring singers and musicians. Their impact can still be felt today in the work of contemporary jazz vocalists who continue to draw inspiration from their predecessors.

Evolution of Jazz Singing Styles: From Traditional to Contemporary

Jazz singing styles have evolved over the years, reflecting the changing trends and influences of the times. Traditional jazz singers, such as Bessie Smith and Ethel Waters, emphasized powerful vocals and expressive interpretations.

As the genre progressed, artists like Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan showcased a more sophisticated and technically advanced approach to jazz singing. They incorporated scat singing and improvisation, pushing the boundaries of what was possible with their voices.

In recent years, contemporary jazz singers like Gretchen Parlato and Esperanza Spalding have embraced a more eclectic and experimental style, incorporating elements of R&B, soul, and even pop into their music.

Celebrating Diversity: Female Jazz Singers from Around the World

Jazz is a truly global genre, and female jazz singers from around the world have made their mark on the genre with their unique cultural influences. From Europe to Latin America to Asia, these artists have brought their own traditions and musical styles to jazz.

Some notable international female jazz singers include Dee Dee Bridgewater (United States), Stacey Kent (United Kingdom), Eliane Elias (Brazil), and Youn Sun Nah (South Korea). Each artist brings a distinct flavor to jazz, reflecting their cultural backgrounds and experiences.

The Future of Female Jazz Singers

The future of female jazz singers is bright, with a new generation of talented artists making waves in the genre. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in jazz, and emerging voices are bringing fresh perspectives and pushing the boundaries of the genre.

Artists like Cécile McLorin Salvant, Jazzmeia Horn, and Kandace Springs are just a few examples of the exciting talent emerging in the jazz vocal scene. Their unique styles and innovative approaches to jazz ensure that the genre will continue to evolve and thrive.

Conclusion

Female jazz singers have played an integral role in shaping the genre throughout history. From legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday to rising stars like Jazzmeia Horn and Kandace Springs, these artists have left an indelible mark on jazz with their unique voices, innovative techniques, and powerful interpretations.

The top 100 female jazz singers list represents a diverse range of styles, eras, and cultural influences, showcasing the rich tapestry of jazz vocal performance. Whether it’s the classic sound of Ella Fitzgerald or the contemporary stylings of Esperanza Spalding, each artist brings something unique to the genre, captivating audiences with their talent and artistry.

As we celebrate the legacy of these incredible artists, we also look to the future, where a new generation of female jazz singers continues to push the boundaries of the genre. With their fresh perspectives and innovative approaches, these emerging talents ensure that jazz will continue to thrive and evolve for years to come.

FAQs

1. Who is considered the greatest female jazz singer of all time?
Ella Fitzgerald is often considered the greatest female jazz singer of all time. Her incredible vocal range, improvisational skills, and technical prowess set her apart from her peers. Her numerous accolades, including 14 Grammy Awards, further solidify her status as a jazz legend.

2. Are there any contemporary female jazz singers who are making waves in the genre?
Yes, there are several contemporary female jazz singers who are making waves in the genre. Artists like Cécile McLorin Salvant, Jazzmeia Horn, and Kandace Springs are garnering critical acclaim and attracting a new generation of jazz enthusiasts with their fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to jazz.

3. How has the role of female jazz singers evolved over time?
The role of female jazz singers has evolved significantly over time. In the early days of jazz, female singers were often relegated to singing blues or novelty songs. However, as the genre progressed, women began to take on more prominent roles as solo performers and collaborators with renowned musicians. Today, female jazz singers are celebrated for their technical skills, improvisational ability, and unique interpretations of jazz standards.

4. Are there any international female jazz singers of note?
Yes, there are many international female jazz singers who have made significant contributions to the genre. Some notable examples include Dee Dee Bridgewater (United States), Stacey Kent (United Kingdom), Eliane Elias (Brazil), and Youn Sun Nah (South Korea). Each artist brings their own cultural influences and musical traditions to jazz, adding to the genre’s rich diversity.

5. How have female jazz singers influenced popular music as a whole?
Female jazz singers have had a profound influence on popular music as a whole. Their unique vocal styles, improvisational abilities, and emotive interpretations have been emulated by singers in various genres. Artists like Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Sarah Vaughan have inspired generations of musicians and continue to be revered as icons in the world of music.