Sarah Vaughan

Definition

Sarah Vaughan was a celebrated American jazz singer known for her rich voice, impeccable vocal technique, and ability to convey deep emotion through her music. Often referred to as 'Sassy' or 'The Divine One,' she became a prominent figure during the Swing era, influencing countless artists with her unique style and musicality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sarah Vaughan was born on March 27, 1924, in Newark, New Jersey, and began singing in her church choir at a young age.
2. She gained national recognition after winning a talent contest at the Apollo Theater in Harlem in 1942.
3. Her vocal range spanned nearly four octaves, allowing her to execute complex melodies with ease.
4. Vaughan recorded numerous hits during the Swing era, including 'Misty,' 'Summertime,' and 'Lover Man,' showcasing her versatility across different styles.
5. She collaborated with many notable musicians and composers throughout her career, including Dizzy Gillespie and Count Basie, helping to bridge the gap between traditional jazz and modern forms.

Review Questions

• How did Sarah Vaughan's vocal style contribute to the evolution of jazz during the Swing era?
  • Sarah Vaughan's vocal style played a significant role in shaping jazz during the Swing era by combining technical skill with emotional depth. Her ability to improvise and manipulate her voice allowed her to create unique interpretations of songs, setting a new standard for jazz vocalists. Vaughan's influence encouraged other singers to explore their own artistry, pushing the boundaries of jazz beyond just instrumental performances.
• Analyze how Sarah Vaughan's collaborations with other musicians reflected the musical trends of the Swing era.
  • Sarah Vaughan's collaborations with prominent figures like Dizzy Gillespie and Count Basie showcased the vibrant synergy of the Swing era. These partnerships not only highlighted her versatility as a vocalist but also reflected the broader trend of blending different musical styles within jazz. By working with big bands and renowned musicians, Vaughan helped to popularize the big band sound while also incorporating elements of bebop into her repertoire.
• Evaluate Sarah Vaughan's impact on future generations of musicians within the context of jazz's evolution beyond the Swing era.
  • Sarah Vaughan's impact on future generations of musicians is evident in her innovative approach to vocal jazz that transcended the Swing era. Her mastery of improvisation and emotional expression paved the way for later artists in various genres, including R&B and pop. Vaughan's legacy is reflected in how contemporary singers continue to draw inspiration from her techniques, emphasizing emotional storytelling and technical proficiency that are hallmarks of modern vocal performance.

Related terms

Jazz: A genre of music that originated in the African American communities of New Orleans, characterized by swing and blue notes, call and response vocals, polyrhythms, and improvisation.

Bebop: A complex jazz style that emerged in the 1940s, characterized by fast tempos, intricate melodies, and advanced harmonies, moving away from the danceable rhythms of Swing.

Big Band: A large musical ensemble associated with Swing music, typically consisting of sections of brass, woodwinds, and rhythm instruments, popular during the 1930s and 1940s.