Jazz Appreciation Month: Vocalists

Jazz began as an instrumental form, with the combos of New Orleans jazz. During the Swing Era some big bands moved from being primarily instrumental dance bands to bands that backed vocalists, drawing from the popular song traditions of Tin Pan Alley. This became more common during World War II, as radio entertained the troops (who of course might not be dancing). The band was still usually named for the instrumentalist who led the band, and several singers might perform with the band. A few of the singers who fronted these bands became stars in their own right, continuing to sing after Big Bands died out: Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Mel Tormé, Rosemary Clooney, Carmen McRae, Anita O'Day, Pearl Bailey, and Doris Day.

Women: Billie Holiday Ella Fitzgerald Sarah Vaughan Betty Carter Carmen McRae Rosemary Clooney Anita O'Day Madeleine Peyroux Cleo Laine Dinah Washington Peggy Lee Nina Simone Lena Horne Shirley Horn Diane Schuur Blossom Dearie Flora Purim Jane Monheit Currently active singers: Diana Krall Nancy Wilson Cassandra Wilson Dee Dee Bridgewater Dianne Reeves Norah Jones	Men: Louis Armstrong Chet Baker Frank Sinatra Tony Bennett Dean Martin Nat King Cole Mel Tormé Bobby Short Billy Eckstine João Gilberto Currently active singers: Gil Scott-Heron Geoge Benson Al Jarreau Bobby McFerrin Harry Connick Michael Bublé
Vocal groups:
Manhattan Transfer Andews Sisters Mills Brothers