27 Greatest & Most Famous Male Jazz Singers of All Time

Famous male jazz singers have left an indelible mark on the music world, blending technical mastery with emotional expression in ways that have shaped the very foundation of jazz.

From pioneers like Louis Armstrong and Nat King Cole to modern innovators like Gregory Porter and Bobby McFerrin, these vocalists have transformed jazz with their unique voices and interpretations.

This article delves into the legacies of some of the most iconic male jazz singers, exploring their contributions and lasting influence on the genre.

27 Most Talented Famous Male Jazz Singers Who Changed Music History

These male jazz singers have left a lasting impact on the genre with their distinctive voices, technical mastery, and ability to convey deep emotion through jazz standards and original compositions.

Here’s a list of 27 famous male jazz singers, spanning various eras and styles:

#1 Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong, often called “Satchmo,” is one of the most iconic figures in jazz, known for his gravelly voice, virtuosic trumpet playing, and infectious charisma. Armstrong’s career began in the 1920s in New Orleans, where he revolutionized jazz with his improvisational skills, turning it into a soloist’s art form. His vocal performances on songs like “What a Wonderful World” and “La Vie En Rose” are celebrated for their warmth and emotional depth, making him not only a jazz legend but a global cultural icon.

Armstrong’s signature gravelly voice, combined with his trumpet prowess, helped break racial barriers and bring jazz to a worldwide audience. His influence on the genre is immeasurable, as he inspired countless musicians and shaped the very foundation of jazz.

#2 Nat King Cole

Nat King Cole’s velvety smooth voice and elegant phrasing made him one of the most beloved jazz singers of all time. Beginning as a jazz pianist, Cole’s warm vocals took center stage in the 1940s with timeless classics like “Unforgettable” and “Mona Lisa,” which earned him international fame. His ability to convey emotion with subtlety and grace made his performances mesmerizing, and his crossover into pop solidified him as a mainstream success.

Cole’s pioneering role as one of the first African Americans to host a television variety show, The Nat King Cole Show, marked an important moment in American cultural history. His smooth, sophisticated style continues to resonate, influencing generations of singers across genres.

#3 Frank Sinatra

Frank Sinatra, often referred to as “Ol’ Blue Eyes,” was a jazz and pop sensation whose emotive voice and impeccable phrasing made him a global superstar. Sinatra’s crooning style, showcased in songs like “My Way” and “Fly Me to the Moon,” captured the hearts of millions. His ability to swing effortlessly between jazz standards and pop ballads set him apart as a versatile and dynamic performer.

Sinatra’s smooth delivery and commanding presence on stage made him one of the most influential figures in 20th-century music. With a career that spanned over five decades, he not only defined vocal jazz but also became a symbol of cool sophistication, earning his place in the pantheon of greats.

#4 Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett’s timeless voice and dedication to jazz standards have made him a living legend in the jazz world. Known for his impeccable phrasing and warm, rich tone, Bennett’s renditions of songs like “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” and “The Way You Look Tonight” have become classics. His ability to connect emotionally with audiences through his interpretations of the Great American Songbook has made him a favorite across generations.

Bennett’s collaboration with younger artists, including Lady Gaga, has introduced his music to a new generation of fans. Despite the changing landscape of music, Bennett’s unwavering commitment to jazz and his remarkable vocal talent have cemented his place as one of the most beloved jazz singers of all time.

#5 Chet Baker

Chet Baker was known for his cool, laid-back style, both as a vocalist and a trumpet player, making him a central figure in West Coast jazz. His soft, almost whisper-like voice in songs like “My Funny Valentine” and “Time After Time” brought a delicate vulnerability to jazz singing. Baker’s ability to convey emotion with minimal effort gave his performances a haunting quality, making him a favorite among jazz aficionados.

Baker’s career was marked by both brilliance and turbulence, as his struggles with addiction often overshadowed his immense talent. Nevertheless, his unique vocal and trumpet style continues to influence jazz musicians, and his recordings remain a testament to his raw, emotional power in jazz.

#6 Billy Eckstine

Billy Eckstine was a pioneering jazz baritone whose smooth, rich voice and elegant style earned him widespread acclaim in the 1940s and 1950s. Known for his sophisticated stage presence and powerful ballads like “I Apologize” and “Cottage for Sale,” Eckstine broke new ground as one of the first African American singers to achieve mainstream success. His deep, resonant voice, combined with his lush orchestrations, made him a standout in the jazz and big band world.

Eckstine’s contributions to jazz extended beyond singing; he led a progressive big band that featured future legends like Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie. His blend of jazz and pop set the stage for future crooners, solidifying his influence on both vocal jazz and popular music.

#7 Johnny Hartman

Johnny Hartman’s rich, velvety baritone made him one of the most revered jazz singers of his era, known for his collaborations with John Coltrane on the classic album John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman. His interpretations of ballads like “Lush Life” and “My One and Only Love” are considered some of the finest in jazz, characterized by their emotional depth and vocal precision. Hartman’s voice had an unparalleled ability to evoke intimacy, making his performances deeply personal and affecting.

Despite being somewhat underappreciated during his lifetime, Hartman’s recordings have earned him a lasting legacy as one of the finest male jazz vocalists. His smooth, refined style continues to inspire listeners, solidifying his place among the greats.

#8 Joe Williams

Joe Williams was a master of the blues and jazz vocal traditions, known for his smooth, resonant baritone voice. Rising to prominence as the lead vocalist for the Count Basie Orchestra, Williams’s impeccable sense of timing and phrasing made classics like “Every Day I Have the Blues” definitive recordings of the genre. His voice, warm and full of emotional depth, could effortlessly shift between the sultriness of blues and the swing of jazz, making him a versatile and beloved figure in the jazz world.

Williams’s ability to evoke the raw power of the blues while maintaining the elegance of jazz earned him widespread acclaim. His collaborations with Basie and his extensive solo career solidified his place as one of the greatest male jazz vocalists of the 20th century.

#9 Mel Tormé

Mel Tormé, affectionately known as “The Velvet Fog,” was a jazz singer, composer, and arranger, celebrated for his silky smooth voice and impeccable scat singing. Tormé’s mastery of jazz standards and his ability to deliver both tender ballads and fast-paced swing numbers earned him a reputation as one of the finest vocal technicians in jazz. Songs like “Blue Moon” and his co-written classic “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” have become iconic in his repertoire.

Tormé’s ability to seamlessly weave scat improvisations into his performances set him apart from his contemporaries. His career spanned over five decades, and his contributions to jazz singing, both as a vocalist and arranger, remain a benchmark for aspiring jazz artists.

#10 Cab Calloway

Cab Calloway was a dynamic jazz and swing singer known for his energetic performances, scat singing, and flamboyant personality. As the leader of his own big band, Calloway brought high-energy hits like “Minnie the Moocher” and “Hi-De-Ho” to audiences, becoming a household name in the jazz world during the 1930s and 1940s. His theatrical style, blending music with comedy and exuberant showmanship, made him one of the most entertaining figures in jazz.

Calloway’s charisma and unique vocal delivery left an indelible mark on jazz, influencing generations of performers. His stage presence and vocal prowess made him one of the first African American artists to achieve crossover success, breaking racial barriers and establishing himself as a true jazz icon.

#11 Jimmy Rushing

Jimmy Rushing, known as “Mr. Five by Five” for his short stature and big voice, was a blues and jazz singer whose booming vocals made him a standout in the Count Basie Orchestra. Rushing’s voice, powerful and full of grit, was perfect for both the up-tempo swing of big band jazz and the deep emotional expression of the blues. His performances of songs like “Good Morning Blues” and “Sent for You Yesterday” are considered masterpieces of vocal jazz.

Rushing’s ability to convey both joy and sorrow with his voice made him a favorite among jazz and blues aficionados. His role in the Basie band and his influential solo work continue to be celebrated for their authenticity and emotional impact.

#12 Kurt Elling

Kurt Elling is one of the most celebrated contemporary jazz vocalists, known for his rich baritone voice and daring improvisational style. Elling’s ability to blend traditional jazz vocals with modern elements has made him a favorite among both critics and jazz enthusiasts. His renditions of jazz standards like “Nightmoves” and “Nature Boy” showcase his vocal range and emotional depth, while his adventurous scatting and vocalese highlight his technical brilliance.

Elling’s unique ability to infuse classic songs with fresh interpretations has earned him multiple Grammy Awards and a place among the greatest living jazz singers. His performances are known for their intensity and creativity, making him a modern-day torchbearer for the jazz vocal tradition.

#13 Jon Hendricks

Jon Hendricks was a pioneer of vocalese, the art of adding lyrics to jazz instrumental solos, and his inventive approach revolutionized jazz singing. As a member of the vocal trio Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, he helped popularize vocalese with their groundbreaking album Sing a Song of Basie. Hendricks’ fast-paced, witty lyrics paired with his precise vocal delivery brought new life to jazz classics like “Cloudburst” and “Four Brothers.”

Hendricks’s contributions to jazz extended far beyond his own performances, as he inspired countless vocalists with his innovative use of voice as an instrument. His influence on vocal jazz remains profound, with many considering him the greatest practitioner of vocalese in jazz history.

#14 Harry Connick Jr.

Harry Connick Jr. is a multi-talented jazz singer, pianist, and actor known for his charismatic performances and dedication to the Great American Songbook. Connick burst onto the scene in the late 1980s with his swinging renditions of jazz standards like “It Had to Be You” and “Our Love is Here to Stay.” His youthful energy and classic style earned him comparisons to Frank Sinatra, while his piano playing showcased his deep connection to the New Orleans jazz tradition.

Throughout his career, Connick has skillfully balanced his love of traditional jazz with forays into pop, acting, and composing, earning him widespread acclaim. His ability to keep jazz alive in contemporary culture has made him a beloved figure in both the jazz world and beyond.

#15 Gregory Porter

Gregory Porter’s deep, soulful voice has made him one of the most important modern voices in jazz, blending jazz, soul, and gospel in a way that feels both timeless and contemporary. Porter’s breakthrough album Liquid Spirit introduced his rich baritone to a global audience, and songs like “Hey Laura” and “Be Good (Lion’s Song)” showcased his ability to convey vulnerability and strength with equal grace. His warm, emotionally resonant voice and thoughtful lyrics have drawn comparisons to legends like Nat King Cole.

Porter’s signature style, wearing a flat cap and balaclava, adds to his unique presence, but it’s his storytelling and vocal warmth that have made him a favorite among jazz and soul fans alike. His music continues to bridge the gap between traditional jazz and contemporary sounds, making him a defining voice of the genre today.

#16 Al Jarreau

Al Jarreau was a trailblazing jazz and R&B singer known for his extraordinary vocal flexibility and genre-defying style. With his ability to switch seamlessly between jazz, pop, and soul, Jarreau became a seven-time Grammy Award winner. Hits like “We’re in This Love Together” and his distinctive take on “Take Five” showcased his gift for improvisation and his playful use of voice as an instrument.

Jarreau’s vocal range, from his soft, airy falsetto to his rich baritone, made him one of the most versatile and technically skilled singers in jazz. His innovative approach to vocal jazz continues to influence generations of artists, and his genre-crossing appeal made him a beloved figure in both the jazz and pop worlds.

#17 Mark Murphy

Mark Murphy was a daring and innovative jazz vocalist, known for his adventurous scat singing and unique interpretations of jazz standards. With a career spanning over five decades, Murphy took classic songs like “Stolen Moments” and “My Funny Valentine” and infused them with his own imaginative style, often bending melodies and adding spontaneous vocalese. His approach to singing pushed the boundaries of traditional jazz vocals, and his improvisational skills were unmatched.

Murphy’s performances were both technically brilliant and emotionally raw, making him a favorite among jazz purists and progressive musicians alike. His contributions to jazz singing were profound, as he continually redefined what it meant to be a jazz vocalist through his creative risk-taking and musical versatility.

#18 Jamie Cullum

Jamie Cullum is a British jazz-pop singer and pianist who has brought a modern flair to jazz standards while blending them with contemporary pop influences. His youthful energy and playful approach to the genre have made him one of the most popular jazz singers of his generation. Songs like “Twentysomething” and “These Are The Days” showcase his ability to merge classic jazz with modern songwriting, attracting fans from both the jazz and pop worlds.

Cullum’s talent as a pianist complements his charismatic vocal style, and his live performances are known for their spontaneity and interaction with the audience. His innovative blending of genres has introduced jazz to a younger audience, making him a leading voice in contemporary jazz.

#19 José James

José James is a contemporary jazz and soul singer whose rich, velvety voice and innovative blending of genres have earned him critical acclaim. Known for fusing jazz with elements of hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music, James has created a sound that is both modern and deeply rooted in tradition. His albums like No Beginning No End and Yesterday I Had the Blues have showcased his ability to reinterpret jazz standards with a fresh perspective while paying homage to legends like Billie Holiday.

James’s sultry, smooth delivery and genre-bending approach have made him one of the most exciting male jazz vocalists of the modern era. His ability to experiment while staying true to the heart of jazz has earned him a devoted following across musical landscapes.

#20 Andy Bey

Andy Bey is a deeply soulful jazz vocalist and pianist known for his rich, bass-baritone voice and introspective interpretations of jazz standards and original compositions. Often described as a “musician’s musician,” Bey’s understated yet powerful performances have captivated audiences since the 1960s. His ability to infuse songs like “Someone to Watch Over Me” and “Speak Low” with a profound sense of emotion and vulnerability has earned him a loyal fanbase.

Despite his relatively low profile in the commercial world, Bey’s influence on jazz vocalists is immense. His quiet, contemplative style and his deep connection to the lyrics make him one of the most respected and revered voices in the jazz world, inspiring generations of singers.

#21 Michael Bublé

Michael Bublé is a Canadian jazz-pop crooner who has gained international fame for his smooth voice and charming stage presence. Often compared to Frank Sinatra, Bublé’s renditions of jazz standards like “Feeling Good” and “Haven’t Met You Yet” have made him a global sensation, blending classic swing with contemporary pop elements. His albums, filled with timeless standards and original songs, have garnered numerous awards, making him one of the most commercially successful jazz singers of his era.

Bublé’s ability to appeal to both jazz purists and mainstream audiences has solidified his place as a modern-day crooner. His warm, rich tone and charismatic performances continue to bring jazz standards to new generations of listeners worldwide.

#22 Johnny Mathis

Johnny Mathis is a legendary vocalist known for his smooth voice and romantic interpretations of jazz, pop, and easy-listening ballads. Rising to fame in the 1950s, Mathis’s classic hits like “Chances Are” and “Misty” showcased his silky vocal delivery and impeccable phrasing. His ability to glide effortlessly between genres has made him one of the most versatile and beloved singers in American music history.

Mathis’s voice, warm and inviting, has remained a constant presence on the charts for decades, and his influence on both jazz and pop singing is undeniable. His enduring popularity and graceful vocal style have made him a cherished icon in the world of romantic ballads and jazz standards.

#23 Sammy Davis Jr.

Sammy Davis Jr. was a multi-talented performer whose contributions to jazz, pop, and entertainment made him a true icon of 20th-century American culture. As a member of the Rat Pack alongside Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, Davis brought jazz standards to life with his powerful, emotive voice and incredible showmanship. Songs like “The Candy Man” and “Mr. Bojangles” highlighted his ability to blend swing, pop, and jazz with effortless grace.

In addition to his vocal talents, Davis was an accomplished dancer, actor, and comedian, making him one of the most versatile entertainers of his time. His charisma, vocal prowess, and trailblazing efforts in breaking racial barriers have left an indelible mark on jazz and popular music.

#24 Eddie Jefferson

Eddie Jefferson is considered one of the pioneers of vocalese, a jazz singing technique where lyrics are added to instrumental solos. His ability to transform complex jazz melodies into lyrical masterpieces set him apart, with songs like “Moody’s Mood for Love” and “So What” showcasing his vocal dexterity. Jefferson’s inventive style turned bebop solos into singable stories, blending the precision of jazz improvisation with expressive, narrative lyrics.

Jefferson’s influence on the vocalese tradition has been profound, inspiring generations of jazz vocalists to experiment with this innovative approach. His unique combination of vocal talent and lyrical storytelling helped elevate vocalese from a niche technique to a recognized and celebrated art form within jazz.

#25 King Pleasure

King Pleasure was one of the early champions of vocalese, known for his smooth voice and ability to turn intricate instrumental solos into soulful, lyrical jazz pieces. His rendition of “Moody’s Mood for Love,” a vocalese version of James Moody’s saxophone solo, became an iconic track, capturing the essence of this innovative style. Pleasure’s laid-back, conversational delivery gave his music a relaxed and intimate feel, bringing vocalese to a wider audience.

King Pleasure’s work helped popularize the vocalese movement in the 1950s, influencing vocalists like Jon Hendricks and Mark Murphy. His effortless blending of jazz improvisation with lyrical storytelling solidified his place in the jazz pantheon as one of the most important early practitioners of the style.

#26 Paul Robeson

Paul Robeson was not only an exceptional bass-baritone singer but also a civil rights activist, actor, and scholar, whose contributions to jazz, spirituals, and classical music were profound. With a deep, resonant voice, Robeson was known for his powerful renditions of spirituals like “Ol’ Man River,” which became his signature song. His rich, emotional delivery conveyed both the pain and strength of the African American experience, making his performances both musically brilliant and socially impactful.

Robeson’s career transcended music, as he used his voice and platform to fight for civil rights and social justice around the world. His immense vocal talent, combined with his activism, made him a towering figure not only in jazz but in global cultural and political history.

#27 Bobby McFerrin

Bobby McFerrin is a master of vocal improvisation and a ten-time Grammy Award-winning artist, known for his incredible range, innovative techniques, and genre-defying music. His ability to produce an entire symphony of sounds using just his voice made him a revolutionary figure in jazz. Hits like “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” brought him mainstream success, but McFerrin’s explorations in vocal jazz, such as Circlesongs and his collaborations with jazz orchestras, showcased his true artistry.

McFerrin’s voice functions like a musical instrument, capable of creating intricate harmonies, rhythms, and melodies all at once. His creativity and fearless experimentation have inspired countless musicians, and his work has expanded the boundaries of what the human voice can achieve in jazz and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is considered the father of jazz singing?

Louis Armstrong is often regarded as the father of jazz singing due to his pioneering scat singing and charismatic vocal style. His unique voice and improvisational skills helped define the early sound of jazz vocals.

What is vocalese, and which male jazz singers popularized it?

Vocalese is a jazz technique where singers add lyrics to instrumental solos, turning melodies into vocal performances. Eddie Jefferson and King Pleasure were pioneers of vocalese, transforming intricate jazz solos into lyrical songs.

Who is the most famous crooner associated with jazz and popular standards?

Frank Sinatra is perhaps the most famous crooner known for blending jazz and pop standards, with timeless hits like “My Way” and “Fly Me to the Moon.” His smooth voice and impeccable phrasing made him a global sensation.

Which modern male jazz singer is known for blending jazz with soul and R&B influences?

Gregory Porter is a contemporary male jazz singer known for blending jazz with soul and R&B influences. His warm, baritone voice and emotional depth have made him one of the most celebrated modern jazz vocalists.