The Best Female Jazz Singers
The best female jazz singers in music history have a sound that's like no other. Their melodies and smooth tones captivate us and keep us coming back for more. Many of the famous women on this list have been gone for decades, but their incomparable jazz vocals will live on forever.
How can any list of top female jazz vocalists not include black boss ladies Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughan? Their unparalleled talents are indisputable, and their music only continues to inspire millions of people, especially today. Once you get into the best female jazz singers' top 10, it's really hard to pick one over the other.
Arguments can be made, of course, that Sarah Vaughan's versatility makes her the best. Some might say that no one can or will ever match Ella Fitzgerald's incredible tone (and certainly her scat abilities). Others would argue that Billie Holiday is not only the greatest female jazz singer in history, but one of the best female vocalists ever.
Some of the best modern female jazz artists include the wonderful Diana Krall, Melody Gardot, certainly Esperanza Spalding -- and yes, even Norah Jones. Norah's sound is more of a jazzy fusion, but she makes the cut.
Vote below for your favorite trailblazing and current female jazz vocalists, and make to vote based on the quality of their music (albums and songs) and overall artistry, rather than simply their popularity or fame.
- 1Côte d'Azur Concerts on Verve, Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas, Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas
See: The Best Ella Fitzgerald Albums
Known as the "First Lady of Song," this iconic artist possessed a three-octave range and had an unparalleled ability to scat, which earned her the admiration of musicians and audiences alike. With over 200 albums to her name and 13 Grammy Awards, she effortlessly bridged the gap between jazz and pop culture, becoming a household name. Her profound impact on jazz can be heard in the countless singers who have emulated her style, and her influence continues to shape the genre today.
- 2Lady in Satin, Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday at Newport, The Best of Billie Holiday
See: The Best Billie Holiday Albums
With a deeply emotional and soulful voice, she captivated listeners with her unique phrasing and ability to convey complex emotions through song. Despite a tumultuous personal life that often overshadowed her career, she remains one of the most celebrated and influential jazz vocalists in history. Her haunting yet beautiful interpretations of songs continue to resonate with fans around the world, solidifying her status as a true legend within the genre.
- 3Giants of Jazz, Basie-Vaughan, How Long Has This Been Going On?
See: The Best Sarah Vaughan Albums
Dubbed "The Divine One," her rich, powerful voice was matched by an astonishing range and flawless technique that allowed her to seamlessly transition between octaves. She rose to fame during the bebop era, collaborating with some of its biggest names while also enjoying commercial success as a solo artist. Her innovative approach to singing left an indelible mark on jazz history, inspiring countless artists who came after her.
- 4The Very Best of Nina Simone, Nina Simone Sings the Blues, At Carnegie Hall
See: The Best Nina Simone Albums
A classically trained pianist turned singer-songwriter, she brought a depth and sophistication to jazz vocals that set her apart from her contemporaries. Known for tackling social issues through her music, she became an important voice during the civil rights movement, using her platform to fight for change. Her fearless artistry and uncompromising vision continue to inspire generations of musicians across various genres.
- 5For Those in Love, A Slick Chick (On the Mellow Side), Dinah '62
See: The Best Dinah Washington Albums
Often referred to as "The Queen of the Blues," she was known for her emotive delivery and exceptional vocal control, effortlessly transitioning between different styles. She achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success in her career, becoming one of the most popular artists of her time. Her influence on jazz and blues can still be heard today, with numerous singers citing her as a major inspiration.
- 6At Last!, Tell Mama, I'd Rather Go Blind
See: The Best Etta Jones Albums
With a voice that could be both powerful and tender, she brought raw emotion to every song she sang. Though often associated with R&B and soul music, her roots were firmly planted in jazz, which informed her distinct style throughout her career. Her lasting impact on the genre is evident in the countless artists who have followed in her footsteps, blending jazz with more contemporary sounds.
