A powerful vocalist and actress who blended jazz, blues, and African rhythms to create a unique sound, and starred in films like "Nothing But a Man" and "For Love of Ivy".
American jazz vocalist Abbey Lincoln was a powerful force in the music industry, using her voice to advocate for civil rights and social justice. With a career spanning over five decades, Lincoln's music and activism continue to inspire new generations of artists and social justice advocates.
Born Anna Marie Wooldridge on August 6, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois, Lincoln was raised in Calvin Center, Michigan. She drew inspiration from jazz legends like Billie Holiday, and her unique vocal style was shaped by her experiences growing up in the Midwest.
Lincoln's debut album, Affair... A Story of a Girl in Love, was released in 1956, followed by a series of albums for Riverside Records. Her music often addressed social justice issues, and she collaborated with like-minded artists such as Max Roach on the landmark civil rights-themed album We Insist (1960).
Lincoln's lyrics often reflected the ideals of the civil rights movement, and her music helped to generate passion and awareness for the cause. Her song "For All We Know" was featured in the 1989 film Drugstore Cowboy, and her album Devil's Got Your Tongue (1992) featured an all-star lineup of jazz musicians.
In addition to her music, Lincoln also had a successful acting career, appearing in films such as The Girl Can't Help It, Nothing But a Man, and For Love of Ivy. She received a National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master Award in 2003, recognition of her contributions to the jazz genre.
Lincoln's music and activism were guided by a strong sense of social justice and a commitment to promoting equality and human rights. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and activists, and her music remains a powerful symbol of the civil rights movement.
After a tour of Africa in the mid-1970s, Lincoln adopted the name Aminata Moseka. She passed away on August 14, 2010, leaving behind a legacy of music and activism that continues to inspire and empower new generations.
Abbey Lincoln's remarkable career serves as a testament to the power of music to inspire social change. Her legacy continues to inspire artists, activists, and anyone who has been moved by her powerful voice and unwavering commitment to justice and equality.
93 Years Old
A soulful, genre-bending vocalist and pianist who blended jazz, blues, and classical music to create powerful, emotionally charged performances. Known for her unique, raspy voice and civil rights activism.
Born in 1915
Legendary jazz vocalist and actress known for her expressive, emotive singing style and iconic songs like "God Bless the Child" and "Strange Fruit".
Born in 1917
A virtuosic jazz vocalist known for her pure, expressive tone, impeccable phrasing, and incredible scat singing abilities. She won 13 Grammy Awards and recorded over 200 albums.
Born in 1924
A highly influential jazz vocalist known for her rich, velvety tone and impressive technical ability, particularly in the bebop and swing genres.
Born in 1920
A renowned jazz vocalist, pianist, and actress who interpreted lyrics with emotional depth and phrased with impeccable timing, known for her distinctive, expressive voice and impressive scat singing abilities.
Born in 1924
A legendary jazz vocalist and pianist, known for her powerful, soulful voice and iconic renditions of blues and jazz standards.
Born in 1920
A sultry-voiced jazz singer-songwriter and actress who mesmerized audiences with her smooth, velvety tone and timeless hits like "Why Don't You Do Right?" and "Fever".
Born in 1919
Jazz vocalist known for her distinctive, virtuosic singing style and iconic performances at the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival. She was a pioneer for female jazz musicians, breaking down barriers with her talent and determination.
