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.
Frank Sinatra
The Complete Reprise Recordings
A lush tapestry of bossa nova rhythms intertwined with Sinatra's smooth, emotive vocal style.
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Frank Sinatra
America, I Hear You Singing
A patriotic collection blending traditional pop and jazz with heartfelt vocal delivery and orchestral backing.
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Frank Sinatra
Francis Albert Sinatra & Antonio Carlos Jobim
A smooth fusion of bossa nova rhythms and Sinatra's velvet vocals creates a languid, romantic atmosphere.
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Frank Sinatra
Come Fly with Me
A smooth journey through romantic landscapes with lush orchestrations and Sinatra's velvety vocals.
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Frank Sinatra
Where Are You?
A lush, melancholic tapestry of orchestral arrangements and Sinatra's emotive vocal delivery captures the essence of heartache and longing.
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Connie Francis
Christmas in My Heart
Warm, nostalgic melodies intertwine with Connie Francis's heartfelt vocals, evoking the magic of holiday traditions.
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Frank Sinatra
L.A. Is My Lady
A smooth blend of jazz and pop, celebrating the allure of Los Angeles with Sinatra's signature croon.
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Frank Sinatra
It Might as Well Be Swing
A vibrant blend of swinging jazz arrangements and Sinatra's smooth, emotive vocals that captivates from start to finish.
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Connie Francis
Sings Italian Favorites
A captivating blend of romantic ballads and traditional Italian melodies delivered with heartfelt vocals.
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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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Frank Sinatra
Sinatra at the Sands
A vibrant showcase of Sinatra's charismatic vocal prowess backed by a swinging big band at the Sands.
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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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Billie Holiday
Lady in Satin
A haunting blend of orchestral lushness and Billie Holiday's emotionally fraught, smoky vocals encapsulates deep heartache.
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Billie Holiday
Lady Sings the Blues
A poignant blend of sorrow and resilience, showcasing Holiday's emotive vocal delivery against lush, jazz-infused arrangements.
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Billie Holiday
Body and Soul
A poignant blend of jazz and blues, capturing the depth of emotion in every note sung by Holiday.
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Cécile McLorin Salvant
Ghost Song
A haunting blend of jazz and contemporary storytelling, steeped in rich emotional depth and introspective lyricism.
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Cécile McLorin Salvant
Dreams and Daggers
A rich tapestry of jazz standards seamlessly woven with Cécile McLorin Salvant's emotive vocal prowess.
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Helen Merrill
Dream of You
A lush blend of emotive vocals and intricate jazz arrangements that captures the essence of late-night introspection.
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Cécile McLorin Salvant
The Window
A captivating blend of jazz standards and original compositions, showcasing Salvant's deep emotional resonance and vocal mastery.
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Cécile McLorin Salvant
For One to Love
A rich tapestry of jazz and blues, woven with Cécile McLorin Salvant's expressive vocals and intricate storytelling.
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Cécile McLorin Salvant
Mélusine
A captivating blend of jazz and folk that weaves together storytelling with intricate melodies.
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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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Eartha Kitt
That Bad Eartha
A provocative blend of lush orchestration and sultry vocals that challenge social norms and showcase Eartha Kitt's unique artistry.
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Lorez Alexandria
Alexandria the Great
A lush tapestry of orchestral jazz interwoven with Alexandria's soaring, emotive vocals.
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