21 Most Famous Female Jazz Singers of All Time

Female jazz singers have played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of jazz music, bringing unique voices and perspectives that have enriched the genre.

From the emotive depths of Billie Holiday to the virtuosic talents of Ella Fitzgerald, these artists have not only showcased exceptional musical abilities but also pushed the boundaries of expression and creativity in jazz.

This article celebrates some of the most renowned female jazz singers, exploring their careers, contributions, and the lasting impact they have had on music worldwide.

21 Greatest Famous Female Jazz Singers You Should Know

These singers have each contributed to the richness and diversity of jazz, bringing their unique styles and voices to the genre.

Here’s a list of 21 famous female jazz singers who have made significant contributions to the genre:

#1 Ella Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald, known as the “First Lady of Song,” is one of the most celebrated and influential jazz singers in history. Born in 1917 in Newport News, Virginia, Fitzgerald began her career in the mid-1930s after winning an amateur singing competition at the Apollo Theater. Her breakthrough came when she joined the Chick Webb Orchestra, where her pure tone, impeccable diction, and extraordinary vocal range quickly set her apart. Fitzgerald’s ability to scat sing—improvising using her voice like an instrument—became one of her trademarks, helping to redefine jazz singing.

Over her six-decade career, Fitzgerald recorded more than 200 albums and won 13 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award. Her series of “Songbook” albums, where she interpreted the works of America’s greatest songwriters like Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, and George Gershwin, are considered masterpieces. Ella Fitzgerald’s contributions to jazz are immeasurable, and her legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans around the world.

#2 Billie Holiday

Billie Holiday, often referred to as “Lady Day,” is one of the most iconic and influential jazz singers of all time. Born Eleanora Fagan in 1915, Holiday’s life was marked by hardship, but she channeled her pain and experiences into her music, creating a unique style that blended jazz, blues, and swing. Her voice, known for its emotive depth and distinctive phrasing, brought a new level of expressiveness to jazz singing. Holiday’s ability to convey intense emotion, particularly in songs like “Strange Fruit,” which protested racial lynching, made her a powerful voice for social change.

Despite facing numerous personal challenges, including struggles with addiction and legal troubles, Holiday’s music career flourished. She recorded timeless classics like “God Bless the Child,” “Lover Man,” and “Summertime,” earning critical acclaim and a lasting place in the pantheon of jazz greats. Billie Holiday’s legacy as a pioneering jazz vocalist is celebrated for her profound influence on the genre and her ability to convey the complexities of the human experience through her music.

#3 Sarah Vaughan

Sarah Vaughan, known as “The Divine One,” was a jazz singer renowned for her extraordinary vocal range, impeccable technique, and lush, rich tone. Born in 1924 in Newark, New Jersey, Vaughan first gained attention after winning a talent contest at the Apollo Theater, which led to her joining Earl Hines’ big band as a vocalist and pianist. Her career took off in the 1940s, and she quickly became one of the leading figures in jazz, known for her ability to effortlessly navigate complex melodies and rhythms.

Vaughan’s versatility allowed her to cross over into pop and classical music, but she remained deeply rooted in jazz, where she collaborated with legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, and Miles Davis. Her recordings of songs like “Misty,” “Lullaby of Birdland,” and “My Funny Valentine” are considered definitive interpretations. Throughout her career, Vaughan received numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards and the National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters Award. Sarah Vaughan’s influence on jazz singing is profound, and her voice remains one of the most revered in the genre.

#4 Nina Simone

Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in 1933, was a groundbreaking artist whose work transcended jazz to include elements of classical, blues, folk, and soul. Often referred to as the “High Priestess of Soul,” Simone was not only a singer and pianist but also a fervent civil rights activist. Her music reflected her deep commitment to social justice, with powerful songs like “Mississippi Goddam,” “To Be Young, Gifted and Black,” and “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free” becoming anthems of the Civil Rights Movement.

Simone’s classically trained piano skills, combined with her distinctive, emotive voice, allowed her to create a unique sound that defied categorization. Over her career, she recorded more than 40 albums, with hits like “Feeling Good,” “My Baby Just Cares for Me,” and “I Put a Spell on You” showcasing her wide-ranging talent. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Nina Simone’s legacy as a fearless artist and a voice for the oppressed remains influential, making her one of the most respected and enduring figures in music history.

#5 Dinah Washington

Dinah Washington, born Ruth Lee Jones in 1924, was a versatile and dynamic singer who earned the title “Queen of the Blues” for her powerful voice and emotional delivery. Washington’s career began in the early 1940s when she joined Lionel Hampton’s band, quickly making a name for herself with her distinctively clear, brassy tone. Although she is most closely associated with the blues, Washington excelled in various genres, including jazz, R&B, and pop, seamlessly crossing over between them.

Her ability to interpret songs with deep feeling and impeccable phrasing made her a favorite among jazz and blues enthusiasts. Washington recorded numerous hits during her career, including “What a Diff’rence a Day Made,” “This Bitter Earth,” and “Baby (You’ve Got What It Takes).” Her influence extended beyond jazz, helping to pave the way for future generations of female vocalists. Dinah Washington’s legacy is celebrated for her extraordinary talent, her versatility, and her ability to convey the full range of human emotion through her music.

#6 Carmen McRae

Carmen McRae was a jazz singer and pianist known for her impeccable timing, distinctive voice, and ability to interpret songs with deep emotional insight. Born in 1920 in Harlem, New York, McRae was influenced by the greats, including Billie Holiday, whom she idolized and later befriended. McRae’s career began in the 1940s, but she rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming one of the leading jazz vocalists of her time. Her performances were characterized by her unique phrasing, which brought a conversational quality to her singing, and her ability to convey the meaning of a song with subtlety and nuance.

Throughout her career, McRae recorded over 60 albums, covering a wide range of jazz standards, ballads, and contemporary songs. Her interpretations of songs like “Round Midnight,” “Body and Soul,” and “My Foolish Heart” are considered masterful. McRae also earned acclaim for her live performances, where her rapport with audiences and her skillful piano accompaniment set her apart. Carmen McRae’s legacy as a jazz vocalist is marked by her artistry, her dedication to the craft, and her influence on generations of jazz singers.

#7 Anita O’Day

Anita O’Day was an American jazz singer known for her swinging style and rhythmic sophistication, which made her one of the most prominent female vocalists in the bebop and swing eras. Born in 1919 in Chicago, O’Day began her career in the 1940s as a big band singer with Gene Krupa and later with Stan Kenton. She quickly became known for her unique phrasing and her ability to improvise like a jazz instrumentalist, which set her apart from many of her contemporaries. O’Day’s rendition of “Let Me Off Uptown” with Krupa and “And Her Tears Flowed Like Wine” with Kenton became major hits, establishing her reputation in the jazz world.

O’Day’s career was marked by both highs and lows, including struggles with addiction, but her resilience and talent allowed her to continue performing and recording for decades. Her performance at the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival, captured in the documentary Jazz on a Summer’s Day, is considered one of the highlights of her career. Anita O’Day’s legacy is that of a fearless innovator who brought a cool, modern edge to jazz singing, influencing generations of vocalists who followed.

#8 Betty Carter

Betty Carter was an American jazz singer renowned for her complex phrasing, adventurous improvisation, and powerful command of rhythm and timing. Born in 1929 in Flint, Michigan, Carter began her career in the late 1940s, initially performing with big bands led by Lionel Hampton and others. However, it was in the 1950s and beyond that she truly made her mark as a solo artist, developing a distinctive style that combined bebop’s intricate rhythms with her own expressive, often unpredictable vocal delivery. Carter was known for her ability to transform even the most familiar standards into something entirely new and fresh through her innovative interpretations.

Despite facing challenges in a male-dominated industry, Carter remained committed to her artistic vision, often choosing to perform with younger, less established musicians whom she mentored and encouraged. Her 1963 album Inside Betty Carter and the Grammy-winning Look What I Got! (1988) are among her most celebrated works. Betty Carter’s influence on jazz is profound, with her willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of vocal jazz earning her a place among the genre’s most revered figures.

#9 Etta James

Etta James was a versatile and influential singer who made significant contributions to jazz, blues, R&B, and rock and roll. Born Jamesetta Hawkins in 1938 in Los Angeles, she began her career as a teenager and quickly gained attention for her powerful, emotive voice. Although she is best known for her blues and R&B recordings, such as the classic “At Last,” James also had a strong affinity for jazz, often incorporating jazz standards into her repertoire and delivering them with a raw, soulful intensity that resonated with audiences.

James’s ability to cross genres made her one of the most versatile singers of her time, and her influence extended far beyond the boundaries of jazz. Throughout her career, she faced personal struggles, including battles with addiction, but her resilience and talent allowed her to maintain a career that spanned over five decades. Etta James’s legacy as a trailblazing artist who could convey deep emotion through her music has earned her a lasting place in the history of American music, particularly in jazz and blues.

#10 Lena Horne

Lena Horne was an American singer, actress, and civil rights activist who became one of the most significant figures in both the entertainment industry and the fight for racial equality. Born in 1917 in Brooklyn, New York, Horne began her career as a chorus girl at the Cotton Club in Harlem before moving on to become a featured vocalist with prominent big bands in the 1930s and 1940s. Her stunning beauty and captivating voice made her a star in Hollywood, where she broke racial barriers by becoming one of the first African American women to sign a long-term contract with a major film studio.

Horne’s performances of songs like “Stormy Weather” and “The Lady Is a Tramp” became iconic, and she used her platform to challenge racial segregation and discrimination in the entertainment industry. Despite facing significant obstacles, Horne’s career flourished, and she continued to perform and record music into her later years. Lena Horne’s contributions to jazz, film, and civil rights have left an indelible mark on American culture, and she remains a trailblazer for artists of all backgrounds.

#11 Julie London

Julie London was an American singer and actress known for her sultry, intimate vocal style and her hit song “Cry Me a River.” Born in 1926 in Santa Rosa, California, London began her career as an actress in the 1940s, but it was her singing that brought her widespread acclaim. Her 1955 recording of “Cry Me a River,” with its minimalist arrangement and London’s smoky voice, became a defining moment in her career, establishing her as one of the most distinctive voices in jazz and pop. The song was a massive hit and has since become a standard, covered by countless artists.

London’s singing style was characterized by its understated, almost conversational delivery, which contrasted with the more powerful, belting styles of some of her contemporaries. She recorded over 30 albums during her career, often focusing on jazz standards and torch songs. In addition to her music career, London continued to act, most notably in the 1970s television series Emergency!. Julie London’s legacy as a jazz and pop vocalist is marked by her ability to convey deep emotion with subtlety and elegance, making her a beloved figure in American music.

#12 Blossom Dearie

Blossom Dearie was an American jazz singer and pianist known for her light, delicate voice and her sophisticated interpretations of jazz standards. Born in 1924 in East Durham, New York, Dearie began her career in the 1940s, performing with vocal groups like the Blue Flames. She moved to Paris in the 1950s, where she recorded several albums for the French label Barclay and became a fixture in the Paris jazz scene. Dearie’s voice, often described as girlish and airy, set her apart from other jazz vocalists, and her piano playing, with its elegant, understated style, complemented her vocal delivery perfectly.

Dearie returned to the United States in the late 1950s and continued to record and perform, releasing a series of critically acclaimed albums on the Verve label. Her repertoire included both well-known standards and lesser-known gems, and she had a particular affinity for witty, clever lyrics. Blossom Dearie’s unique voice and her ability to bring a light touch to even the most complex jazz arrangements made her a beloved figure in the jazz world, and her influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary vocalists.

#13 Peggy Lee

Peggy Lee was an American jazz and pop singer, songwriter, and actress known for her smooth, sultry voice and her sophisticated, understated style. Born Norma Deloris Egstrom in 1920 in North Dakota, Lee began her career singing with big bands in the 1940s, most notably with Benny Goodman, with whom she recorded the hit “Why Don’t You Do Right?” Lee’s solo career took off in the late 1940s, and she became known for her ability to infuse jazz standards and pop songs with a cool, laid-back sensibility that captivated audiences.

Lee’s 1958 recording of “Fever,” with its minimalist arrangement and Lee’s smoky vocal delivery, became one of her signature songs and a timeless classic. In addition to her singing career, Lee was also a talented songwriter, co-writing songs like “Mañana” and contributing to the soundtrack of the Disney film Lady and the Tramp. Peggy Lee’s career spanned over six decades, and her influence on jazz and pop music is profound, with her style and phrasing continuing to inspire vocalists to this day.

#14 Diana Krall

Diana Krall is a Canadian jazz singer and pianist known for her smooth vocals and sophisticated interpretations of jazz standards. Born in 1964 in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Krall began playing piano at a young age and studied at the Berklee College of Music before embarking on her professional career. Her breakthrough came in the 1990s with the release of her album All for You: A Dedication to the Nat King Cole Trio, which received critical acclaim and established her as one of the leading jazz artists of her generation. Krall’s deep, velvety voice and her skillful piano playing have made her a favorite among jazz audiences.

Over the years, Krall has released a series of successful albums, including When I Look in Your Eyes and The Look of Love, both of which further solidified her reputation as a top-tier jazz vocalist and pianist. Her music often blends elements of traditional jazz with pop and bossa nova influences, and she has collaborated with artists like Tony Bennett, Paul McCartney, and Elvis Costello. Diana Krall’s contributions to contemporary jazz have earned her multiple Grammy Awards and international acclaim, making her one of the most successful and respected jazz artists of the modern era.

#15 Madeleine Peyroux

Madeleine Peyroux is an American jazz singer and songwriter known for her intimate, nuanced vocal style that has drawn frequent comparisons to Billie Holiday. Born in Athens, Georgia, in 1974, Peyroux spent much of her youth in Paris, where she began performing on the streets and in clubs, developing her distinctive voice and interpretive skills. Her debut album, Dreamland (1996), garnered critical acclaim for its blend of jazz standards and original compositions, establishing her as a significant new voice in jazz.

Peyroux’s 2004 album, Careless Love, brought her widespread recognition, featuring her unique renditions of songs by Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, and Hank Williams, along with jazz standards. Her ability to convey deep emotion with subtlety and restraint, combined with her guitar playing, has earned her a devoted following. Madeleine Peyroux’s contributions to contemporary jazz are marked by her ability to blend traditional jazz elements with modern sensibilities, creating a sound that is both timeless and current.

#16 Nancy Wilson

Nancy Wilson was an American singer and actress whose career spanned more than five decades, making her one of the most versatile and influential vocalists in jazz and pop music. Born in 1937 in Chillicothe, Ohio, Wilson began her career in the 1950s, quickly gaining recognition for her ability to seamlessly bridge the worlds of jazz, R&B, and pop. Her voice, characterized by its warmth and clarity, allowed her to interpret a wide range of material with sophistication and emotional depth.

Wilson’s 1964 album, How Glad I Am, earned her a Grammy Award and solidified her place in the music industry. Throughout her career, she recorded over 70 albums, with hits like “Save Your Love for Me” and “Guess Who I Saw Today” becoming jazz standards. In addition to her recording career, Wilson was also a successful television and radio host. Nancy Wilson’s legacy as a pioneering artist who could effortlessly cross genres while maintaining her unique style has left an indelible mark on the music world.

#17 Shirley Horn

Shirley Horn was an American jazz singer and pianist known for her understated vocal style and mastery of the piano, which made her one of the most respected jazz musicians of her generation. Born in 1934 in Washington, D.C., Horn initially gained attention in the 1960s for her collaborations with jazz greats like Miles Davis, who admired her ability to create intimate, nuanced performances. Her voice, characterized by its soft, conversational quality, allowed her to bring a deep emotional resonance to every song she performed.

Horn took a break from performing in the 1970s to focus on her family, but she made a triumphant return to the jazz scene in the 1980s with a series of critically acclaimed albums, including I Thought About You and Here’s to Life. Her ability to accompany herself on piano, often with minimalist arrangements, created a unique, intimate atmosphere that captivated audiences. Shirley Horn’s contributions to jazz are celebrated for their subtlety, sophistication, and emotional depth, earning her a lasting place in the pantheon of great jazz vocalists.

#18 Julie Andrews

Julie Andrews is a British actress and singer best known for her roles in classic films like The Sound of Music and Mary Poppins, but before her rise to Hollywood stardom, she had a successful career as a jazz and cabaret singer. Born in 1935 in Surrey, England, Andrews began performing on stage at a young age, and her extraordinary vocal range and crystal-clear soprano voice quickly made her a standout performer. In the early stages of her career, she performed jazz standards and popular songs in London and on Broadway, showcasing her versatility as a vocalist.

Though Andrews is primarily celebrated for her work in musical theater and film, her early jazz performances were marked by a precision and elegance that hinted at her future success. Her ability to bring a sense of character and story to every song she sang made her a unique presence in the jazz world. While Julie Andrews is most famous for her roles in family films, her contributions to jazz and popular music in her early career are an important part of her artistic legacy.

#19 Jane Monheit

Jane Monheit is an American jazz vocalist known for her smooth, melodic voice and her ability to interpret jazz standards with warmth and sophistication. Born in 1977 in Oakdale, New York, Monheit grew up surrounded by music and began performing at a young age. She gained national attention after winning the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz’s vocal competition in 1998, which launched her career in jazz. Her debut album, Never Never Land (2000), received critical acclaim and established her as one of the leading new voices in jazz.

Monheit’s repertoire includes classic jazz standards as well as contemporary songs, all delivered with a keen sense of phrasing and emotional depth. Her albums, such as Come Dream with Me and The Lovers, The Dreamers and Me, showcase her ability to blend tradition with a modern sensibility. Jane Monheit’s contributions to jazz are marked by her dedication to the craft of singing and her ability to connect with audiences through her expressive and elegant vocal style.

#20 Esperanza Spalding

Esperanza Spalding is an American jazz bassist, singer, and composer known for her innovative approach to jazz and her ability to blend genres such as jazz, soul, and classical music. Born in 1984 in Portland, Oregon, Spalding began playing music at a young age and quickly demonstrated a prodigious talent for the bass. She gained widespread recognition in 2011 when she became the first jazz artist to win the Grammy Award for Best New Artist, a milestone that catapulted her to international fame.

Spalding’s music is characterized by its complexity and creativity, as she draws on a wide range of influences to create a sound that is uniquely her own. Her albums, including Chamber Music Society and Emily’s D+Evolution, have been praised for their originality and innovation. In addition to her work as a performer, Spalding is also an educator and advocate for music education. Esperanza Spalding’s contributions to jazz are celebrated for their boldness and vision, making her one of the most exciting and forward-thinking artists in contemporary music.

#21 Cassandra Wilson

Cassandra Wilson is an American jazz singer and songwriter known for her deep, rich voice and her ability to blend jazz with blues, folk, and world music influences. Born in 1955 in Jackson, Mississippi, Wilson began her career in the 1980s as a member of the M-Base Collective, a group of musicians focused on creating new, innovative forms of jazz. Her breakthrough came in the 1990s with the release of her album Blue Light ’til Dawn, which featured her unique interpretations of songs by artists like Robert Johnson and Van Morrison.

Wilson’s music is marked by its eclecticism and her willingness to push the boundaries of jazz, incorporating elements from various musical traditions to create a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. Her albums, such as New Moon Daughter and Thunderbird, have been critically acclaimed for their depth and creativity. Cassandra Wilson’s contributions to jazz are celebrated for their innovation and for her ability to bring a fresh, modern perspective to the genre while honoring its roots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What contributions did Billie Holiday make to jazz music?

Billie Holiday, known as “Lady Day,” significantly influenced jazz with her deeply emotional vocal delivery and unique phrasing. Her performances of songs like “Strange Fruit” and “God Bless the Child” brought a profound sense of personal expression and social commentary to the genre.

How did Ella Fitzgerald earn the title “First Lady of Song”?

Ella Fitzgerald earned the title “First Lady of Song” through her exceptional vocal technique, including her impeccable pitch, tone, and ability to scat sing. Her extensive repertoire and recordings, especially her “Songbook” series, have left a lasting legacy in the world of jazz.

What is unique about Nina Simone’s approach to jazz?

Nina Simone’s approach to jazz was unique in her blending of classical piano training with jazz, blues, and soul influences. Her music often incorporated themes of social justice and personal struggle, making her both an artist and an activist within the genre.

How has Diana Krall influenced contemporary jazz?

Diana Krall has influenced contemporary jazz with her smooth vocal style and proficient piano skills, bringing a modern sensibility to classic jazz standards. Her commercially successful albums and collaborations have helped to introduce jazz to a broader, younger audience.