Music > Jazz Archives - Page 2 of 5

Marlene VerPlanck

American jazz and pop vocalist whose body of work centered on big band jazz, the American songbook, and cabaret

Sheila Jordan was not only one of the premier singers in jazz, but she was known for her stimulating vocal workshops as well. A superb scat singer, she could just as easily reach the emotional depths of a ballad.

Annie Ross

As part of the vocal trio Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, Annie Ross was one of the early practitioners of a singing style known as “vocalese,” which involves the setting of original lyrics to an instrumental jazz solo.

Amina Claudine Myers

From her early beginnings as a member of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), Amina Claudine Myers has gained acclaim as a skilled composer for voice and instruments, often displaying her gospel influences. Her move to New York City in the 1970s led her to prioritize her compositional work and to take on theatrical production projects.

Mildred Bailey

Innovative Jazz Age vocalist

Maria Schneider

Primarily known for her highly original and provocative big band compositions written over the past three decades, Schneider is unique in having written classical works as well, even stepping into rock through a collaboration with David Bowie.

Carla Bley

One of the premier composers of the last 50+ years, Carla Bley wrote music for big bands, choirs, chamber orchestras, and small combos.

Regina Carter

Regina Carter is renowned for her mastery of the violin and exploring the instrument’s possibilities in jazz, as well as taking journeys in other genres of music.

Dianne Reeves

Dianne Reeves can effortlessly sing in whatever style she wants with her far-reaching range, whether it’s rhythm-and-blues, gospel, Latin or pop. But jazz always was—and continues to be—her musical foundation.

Dee Dee Bridgewater

Dee Dee Bridgewater is a daring performer of great depth whose singing talents have earned her three Grammy Awards as well as a Tony Award. In addition, her commanding personality made her a natural for hosting the award-winning National Public Radio syndicated radio show JazzSet with Dee Dee Bridgewater from 2001 to 2014.