A highly influential jazz vocalist known for her rich, velvety tone and impressive technical ability, particularly in the bebop and swing genres.
Sarah Vaughan, nicknamed "Sassy" and "The Divine One," was a legendary American jazz singer and pianist known for her mesmerizing vocal range, impeccable phrasing, and captivating stage presence. With a career spanning over four decades, Vaughan won two Grammy Awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award, and was nominated for a total of nine Grammy Awards.
Sarah Lois Vaughan was born on March 27, 1924, in Newark, New Jersey, to Asbury Jake Vaughan, a carpenter and musician, and Ada Vaughan, a laundress and singer. Growing up in a musical family, Vaughan began taking piano lessons at the age of seven and sang in the church choir.
During her teenage years, Vaughan would often sneak into Newark's nightclubs, performing as a pianist and singer. She attended East Side High School and later transferred to Newark Arts High School, but eventually dropped out to focus on her music career.
In 1942, Vaughan's friend, Doris Robinson, entered the Apollo Theater Amateur Night contest, with Vaughan accompanying her on piano. Robinson won second prize, and Vaughan later decided to compete as a singer herself. She won first prize with her rendition of "Body and Soul," which caught the attention of bandleader and trumpet player, Earl Hines.
Hines hired Vaughan as a vocalist and pianist for his orchestra, marking the beginning of her professional career. In 1944, Vaughan joined the Billy Eckstine Orchestra, where she met and learned from other prominent jazz musicians, including Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker.
Vaughan's distinctive vocal style was characterized by her pure, rich tone, impeccable phrasing, and impressive range. She was known for her ability to scat sing, a skill she developed through her experience with bebop musicians.
Vaughan's music was deeply rooted in jazz, but she also explored other genres, including pop and R&B. Her repertoire included jazz standards, show tunes, and original compositions. Throughout her career, she collaborated with various musicians, including Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Count Basie.
Sarah Vaughan's legacy extends far beyond her impressive list of awards and accolades. She was a trailblazer for female jazz musicians, paving the way for future generations of vocalists.
Vaughan's music continues to inspire and influence contemporary jazz musicians, with her iconic recordings remaining timeless classics in the jazz canon. Her impact on the genre is immeasurable, solidifying her place as one of the most beloved and respected jazz singers of all time.
Vaughan married three times, first to George Treadwell, then to Clyde Atkins, and finally to Waymon Reed. She adopted a daughter, Debra, in 1964.
Vaughan was a registered Democrat and was actively involved in the Civil Rights Movement, performing at benefit concerts and rallies.
"I'm not interested in being a pop singer. I'm interested in being a jazz singer." – Sarah Vaughan
"I'm a singer, not a song stylist. I don't just sing songs; I interpret them."
Sarah Vaughan's remarkable career spanned a pivotal period in American music history, from the rise of bebop to the evolution of modern jazz.
Through her extraordinary talent and dedication, Vaughan left an indelible mark on the jazz world, earning her a permanent place alongside other jazz legends.
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 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 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 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 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".
89 Years Old
A legendary jazz singer and actress, known for her smooth, sultry voice and iconic film roles, including the title character in "The Girl Can't Help It".
Born in 1921
A virtuosic pianist and composer, known for his distinctive, improvisational style and iconic renditions of jazz standards. His music is a masterclass in elegance and sophistication.
Born in 1925
A virtuosic jazz pianist and masterful composer, renowned for his dazzling technique, elegant style, and iconic trio performances.
