jazz singer

noun

1. a singer whose vocal technique is similar to that of a musical instrument, and whose singing has a strong jazz feeling, chiefly imparted through phrasing, melodic improvisation, and rhythmic subtlety.

Word History and Origins

Origin of jazz singer¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Diana Ross made an auspicious feature acting debut in this sprawling biopic about the hardships and triumphs of celebrated jazz singer Billie Holiday.

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This year's season has totalled 86 concerts featuring everyone from jazz singer Samara Joy to the world's only one-handed pianist, Nicholas McCarthy.

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Jazz singer Dame Cleo Laine, famous for her huge vocal range and wide musical repertoire, has died at the age of 97.

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With her electric green eyes, corkscrew hair and husky contralto voice, Dame Cleo became the most recognisable British jazz singer in history.

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Jazz singer Samara Joy, who won best new artist at the Grammys in 2023, did Betty Carter’s “Tight,” while gospel star Yolanda Adams channeled Whitney Houston in a solemn but flowery take on “I Will Always Love You.”

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