The albums that define
vocal jazz.
Our picks for where to start with vocal jazz — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top vocal jazz artists
Start with one of these.
The vocal jazz essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Connie Francis
The Exciting Connie Francis
A vibrant blend of traditional pop and jazz-infused ballads showcasing Connie's emotive vocal prowess.
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Connie Francis
My Thanks to You
A lush orchestral soundscape underpins Connie Francis's heartfelt vocal interpretations of timeless standards.
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Frank Sinatra
Young at Heart
A lush tapestry of orchestral arrangements and Sinatra's velvet croon that captures the essence of timeless romance.
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Frank Sinatra
Sinatra–Basie – An Historic Musical First
A seamless blend of swing-infused jazz and lush orchestration, showcasing Sinatra's smooth vocals alongside Basie's vibrant big band.
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Billie Holiday
All or Nothing at All
A rich tapestry of emotive vocals and sophisticated arrangements woven through classic jazz standards.
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Billie Holiday
Billie Holiday
A sultry blend of jazz and blues, capturing raw emotion through Billie Holiday's hauntingly beautiful vocals.
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Monica Zetterlund
Waltz for Debby
Monica Zetterlund's lush vocals intertwine with intimate jazz arrangements, creating a serene and sophisticated listening experience.
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Diane Schuur
Heart to Heart
A vibrant fusion of jazz standards and soulful interpretations, showcasing Schuur's powerful vocal prowess.
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Diane Schuur
Swingin' for Schuur
Diane Schuur's lush vocals soar over intricate jazz arrangements, blending classic standards with a contemporary flair.
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Lena Horne
It's Love
Smooth vocal jazz intertwines with lush orchestration, creating an intimate atmosphere of romance and longing.
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Lena Horne
Lena on the Blue Side
A lush tapestry of jazz-inflected pop standards, showcasing Horne's rich vocals and emotional depth.
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Caterina Valente
I Happen to Like New York
A vibrant celebration of New York City, blending pop melodies with jazzy arrangements and rich vocal harmonies.
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Caterina Valente
The Hi-Fi Nightingale
A vibrant mix of bossa nova and pop infused with romantic, lush orchestration and Valente's enchanting vocals.
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Gregory Porter
Nat King Cole & Me
A heartfelt homage where smooth vocals intertwine with rich jazz instrumentation, celebrating classic standards.
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Gregory Porter
Be Good
A rich blend of soulful melodies and heartfelt storytelling, anchored by Porter's powerful baritone.
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Helen Merrill
Duets
Intimate vocal jazz intertwines with lush double bass arrangements, creating a serene and timeless listening experience.
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Helen Merrill
Jelena Ana Milcactic a.k.a. Helen Merrill
A soothing blend of jazz standards and heartfelt ballads, showcasing Merrill's emotive vocal prowess.
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