From the streets of Kansas City to the nightclubs of New Orleans, American jazz singers have been giving voice to a genre that is distinctly red, white and blue since the early 20th century. Hard to define, this genre delights with its many bold styles, including ska, avant-garde, Latin, smooth and soul.
Characterized by its use of improvisation, polyrhythms, syncopation and blues notes, jazz has its roots firmly planted in America. Since its inception, however, the musical style has become popular around the world with musicians from Australia to the United Kingdom all trying their hand at making the sweet sounds that characterize jazz.
American jazz singers have lent their voice to the genre practically since the musical style’s birth. Courtesy of voices belonging to notables such as Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Lena Horne, Norah Jones and Bessie Smith, lyrics have enriched this musical style enabling it to speak to the hearts of fans. Songs such as “Ain’t Nobody’s Business,” “As Time Goes By,” “Blue Moon,” and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” have helped popularize the genre, by enabling it stand up to the test of time.
While singers within every musical genre have their own signature sounds and style, seeking to take songs and make them their own, American jazz singers do have some similarities. The jazz style is meant to speak to the heart, churn the emotions and tug at the soul. With strong vocals, passion and crisp sounds, American jazz singers bring voice to a genre that’s meant to elicit emotions like none other.
Although perhaps not as mainstream as styles such as rock, pop and country, jazz has a loyal following in America and beyond. Its sounds, passion and improvisational wonder have influenced many other musical styles. In fact, many musicians and singers categorized as jazz in style have crossed over to enjoy hits popular with the masses. Some examples of songs that have had mass appeal include “Stormy Weather,” “What a Wonderful World,” “Mack the Knife” and “New York, New York.”
As a genre, jazz is very much alive and continues to delight fans with its unique sounds, restless nature and soulful strains. American jazz singers also continue to give the genre voice, making names for themselves in the states and beyond.
American jazz singers have a rich history to go along with their bold sounds. To find out more about modern songstresses, visit us online at Sitename
