Sarah Vaughan Biography

Short Summary

Sarah Vaughan was an iconic American jazz singer, renowned for her rich vocal timbre and remarkable range. Often referred to as "Sassy" or "The Divine One," she made significant contributions to jazz, pop, and classical music over her five-decade-long career. Her remarkable voice and emotive delivery earned her a place among the greatest jazz vocalists of all time, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry and influencing countless artists.

Early Life & Education

Sarah Vaughan was born on March 27, 1924, in Newark, New Jersey, to a music-loving family. Her father was a carpenter and amateur guitarist, while her mother was a laundress and church choir singer. Her musical journey began in church, where she sang in the choir and learned to play piano and organ. She attended East Side High School and later Arts High School, where her talent for singing became increasingly evident. Her early exposure to music at home and in church laid the foundation for her future career in jazz.

Career Highlights

Vaughan's career took off in 1942 when she won an amateur singing contest at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, which led to her being discovered by trumpeter and bandleader Earl Hines. She toured with Hines' band and later joined Billy Eckstine's orchestra, where she honed her craft alongside jazz luminaries like Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie. In the late 1940s, she embarked on a solo career, achieving commercial success with hits like "Tenderly" and "It's Magic." Her collaborations with renowned record labels like Columbia, Mercury, and Verve resulted in numerous acclaimed recordings, solidifying her status as a jazz legend.

Major Achievements

Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame for her timeless recordings, including "Lullaby of Birdland."
Received the NEA Jazz Masters Award in 1989, recognizing her outstanding contributions to jazz music.
Recorded over 50 albums throughout her career, showcasing her versatility across genres.
Won four Grammy Awards, highlighting her excellence in vocal performance.

Famous Quotes

"When I sing, trouble can sit right on my shoulder and I don't even notice."
"There are notes between notes, you know."

Interesting Facts

She was nicknamed "Sassy" for her lively and spirited personality.
She was a trained pianist and often performed while playing the piano.
Vaughan was one of the first female artists to own her own music publishing company.
She had a four-octave vocal range, which was considered extraordinary.

Legacy / Influence

Sarah Vaughan's influence on the world of jazz and beyond is profound and enduring. Her innovative vocal techniques and emotive delivery have inspired countless singers across various genres. She broke barriers for female artists and remains a benchmark for vocal excellence. Her recordings continue to be celebrated, ensuring her legacy as one of the greatest vocalists in music history.