Jazz music has been graced by multiple incredible male vocalists who have left an unforgettable mark on the genre.

These legendary singers not only possessed extraordinary voices but could invest their performances with raw emotion, technical expertise, and improvisation skills that redefined the art of jazz singing.

In this article, we’ll explore 25 of the most influential male jazz singers of all time, each of whom has significantly contributed to the evolution and popularity of jazz music.

From the smooth, smooth tones of Nat King Cole to the scat-singing innovations of Louis Armstrong and the cool, understated style of Chet Baker, these iconic artists have set the standard for generations of jazz vocalists to come.

Join us on a journey through the archives of jazz history as we celebrate these revolutionary male jazz singers and their timeless legacies.

Legendary Male Jazz Singers

1. Frank Sinatra

Born in Hoboken, New Jersey, Sinatra is one of the most influential singers in American music history.

Sinatra’s style defined the American crooner, blending jazz and pop with an unrivaled emotional depth.

Sinatra’s influence on popular music is profound, enduring well beyond his passing in 1998, and he remains a symbol of cool sophistication and emotional authenticity in music.

• Achievements: Won multiple Grammy Awards and was famous for his smooth, melodious voice.
• Notable Songs: “My Way,” “New York, New York,” and “Fly Me to the Moon.”

2. Louis Armstrong

Armstrong originated from New Orleans and was a foundational figure in jazz music.

He was renowned for his charismatic stage presence and voice.

• Achievements: Known for songs that have become jazz standards and for influencing numerous musicians.
• Notable Songs: “What a Wonderful World,” “Hello, Dolly!” and “Stardust.”

3. Nat King Cole

Cole’s career started in jazz and shifted to broader pop music.

He is remembered for his soft, baritone voice.

• Achievements: Pioneered a shift in jazz with his unique vocal approach, influencing the genre significantly.
• Notable Songs: “Unforgettable,” “L-O-V-E,” and “When I Fall in Love.”

4. Ray Charles

Often referred to as “The Genius,” Charles was instrumental in shaping the sound of soul music in the 1950s and 1960s.

His visionary contributions to music include his unique ability to infuse emotional depth into his performances, making him a special figure in the jazz community and beyond.

• Achievements: Won several Grammy Awards and is considered a pioneer in soul music.
• Notable Songs: “Hit the Road Jack,” “Georgia on My Mind,” and “I Can’t Stop Loving You.”

5. Chet Baker

Chet Baker was an American jazz musician renowned for his smooth vocal style and masterful trumpet playing.

Emerging as a leading figure in the West Coast jazz scene, Baker’s career was marked by his lyrical approach to music and his significant contributions to the cool jazz movement. 

• Achievements: Played a key role in developing cool jazz during the 1950s.
• Notable Songs: “My Funny Valentine,” “Let’s Get Lost,” and “Almost Blue.”

6. Kurt Elling

Elling is a prominent American jazz vocalist known for his rich baritone voice and technical mastery.

His music seamlessly blends Bebop and vocal improvisation elements, often including poetry and spoken word, into his performances.

• Achievements: Grammy winner and praised for his technical mastery and improvisational skills.
• Notable Songs: “The Messenger,” “Dedicated to You,” and “Resolution.”

7. Billy Eckstine

Eckstine was a prominent Bebop movement figure known for his distinctive baritone voice.

• Achievements: Helped break down barriers of race in popular music and led one of the first Bebop big bands.
• Notable Songs: “I Apologize,” “Caravan,” and “Everything I Have Is Yours.”

8. Jimmy Scott

Due to Kallmann syndrome, he was recognized for his high natural Contralto voice, which influenced his unique singing style.

• Achievements: He revived his career in the 1990s with acclaimed albums.
• Notable Songs: “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool,” “Embraceable You,” and “When Did You Leave Heaven.”

9. Jon Hendricks

Known as “The Poet Laureate of Jazz,” Hendricks excelled in the art of vocalese, adding lyrics to existing jazz instrumentals.

• Achievements: His innovative approach influenced generations of jazz vocalists.
• Notable Songs: “Cloudburst,” “Charleston Alley,” and “Moanin’.”

10. Johnny Hartman

His collaborations with John Coltrane are legendary, showcasing his smooth voice and romantic expression.

• Achievements: Although not widely recognized during his lifetime, his recordings have since gained significant acclaim.
• Notable Songs: “Lush Life,” “My One and Only Love,” and “I Just Dropped By to Say Hello.”

11. Michael Bublé

A Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his smooth, classic jazz and soulful pop vocals.

Bublé’s charming stage presence, combined with his powerful voice, delivers a compelling revival of the classic American songbook.

• Achievements: Winner of several Grammy Awards and multiple Juno Awards. He has sold over 75 million records worldwide, showcasing his global appeal.
• Notable Songs: “Haven’t Met You Yet”, “Feeling Good”

12. Anthony Strong

Strong is a celebrated jazz singer and pianist from the United Kingdom.

He is known for his charismatic stage presence and smooth vocal style.

• Achievements: Celebrated for reviving classic jazz in modern contexts.
• Notable Songs: “Stepping Out,” “On a Clear Day.”

13. Tony Bennett

An acclaimed American jazz singer renowned for his smooth voice and classic interpretations of American standards. 

• Achievements: Multiple Grammy Awards, famous for bridging the generation gap with his music.
• Notable Songs: “I Left My Heart In San Francisco,” “Rags to Riches.”

14. Mark Murphy

Murphy was an American jazz singer renowned for his innovative vocal techniques and improvisational skills.

His ability to analyze and deliver tough jazz tunes made him a favorite among jazz fans worldwide.

• Achievements: Pioneer in vocalese, with several jazz vocal awards.
• Notable Songs: “Stolen Moments,” “Red Clay.”

15. Al Jarreau

Al Jarreau was an American jazz singer renowned for his unique vocal style and versatility in singing across multiple genres, including jazz, pop, and R&B.

• Achievements: Seven-time Grammy Award winner, unique for winning in three categories.
• Notable Songs: “We’re In This Love Together,” “After All.”

16. Cab Calloway

Calloway was an iconic American jazz singer and bandleader renowned for his energetic performances and charismatic stage presence.

• Achievements: Known for his energetic performances and as a bandleader during the big band era.
• Notable Songs: “Minnie the Moocher,” “St. James Infirmary.”

17. Gregory Porter

Gregory Porter is an acclaimed American jazz singer-songwriter known for his rich, deep voice and passionate songwriting.

His music seamlessly blends jazz with soul and gospel influences. 

• Achievements: Grammy winner for Best Jazz Vocal Album, a significant contributor to jazz and soul.
• Notable Songs: “Hey Laura,” “Liquid Spirit.”

18. Mel Tormé

Mel Tormé, known as “The Velvet Fog” for his smooth, rich voice, was an influential American jazz singer and songwriter.

Famed for his vocal versatility and musical skill, Tormé excelled in jazz, swing, and big band styles.

• Achievements: Multiple awards for his jazz performances and influence in music and television.
• Notable Songs: “The Christmas Song,” “Comin’ Home Baby.”

19. Jackie Paris

Jackie Paris was an American jazz singer and guitarist known for his warm vocal tone and smooth delivery.

Born in 1924, Paris significantly contributed to the bebop era and was admired for his unique interpretations of jazz standards.

• Achievements: Praised by peers like Ella Fitzgerald, a stalwart of the bebop movement.
• Notable Songs: “Skylark,” “On a Slow Boat to China.”

20. Mose Allison

Allison was an American jazz and blues pianist, singer, and songwriter whose music seamlessly blended the two genres with a sharp, witty, lyrical style.

Known for his cool vocal delivery and distinctive piano playing, he penned songs that cleverly commented on human nature and societal issues.

• Achievements: Influenced musicians across genres, from The Who to Van Morrison.
• Notable Songs: “Young Man Blues,” “Parchman Farm.”

21. Leon Thomas

Leon Thomas was an American jazz vocalist and songwriter best known for his distinctive yodeling and vocal style combining African musical elements.

His use of African-inspired techniques, such as ululation and yodeling, set him apart in the jazz scene, creating a unique fusion that resonated with the spiritual jazz movement.

• Achievements: Collaborated with Pharoah Sanders and contributed to the spiritual jazz movement.
• Notable Songs: “The Creator Has a Master Plan,” “Song for My Father.”

22. Andy Bey

Andy Bey is an American jazz singer and pianist known for his distinctive baritone voice and passionate delivery. 

He began his career as a child prodigy, performing with his siblings in the vocal trio Andy and the Bey Sisters.

• Achievements: Four-time Grammy nominee, revered in both jazz and R&B circles.
• Notable Songs: “Celestial Blues,” “Experience.”

23. Joe Williams

Joe Williams was an American jazz singer who was celebrated for his smooth baritone voice and flawless sense of timing, making him one of the leading figures in jazz and blues.

He is best known for his work with the Count Basie Orchestra.

• Achievements: Renowned for his rich voice and charismatic performances.
• Notable Songs: “Every Day I Have the Blues,” “Alright, Okay, You Win.”

24. George Benson

Benson is a renowned American guitarist and singer known for his versatile approach, which bridges the gap between jazz, pop, and R&B.

Born 1943 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Benson began his career as a jazz guitarist, impressing audiences with his fluid play and complex riffs.

• Achievements: Ten Grammy Awards, famous for his jazz and pop crossover appeal.
• Notable Songs: “Give Me the Night,” “This Masquerade.”

25. Bobby McFerrin

Bobby McFerrin is an innovative American vocalist and conductor known for his remarkable vocal range and versatile technique, which mixes jazz, classical, and pop elements.

He continues to be a formidable figure in the music world, celebrated for his creativity, skill, and the joyful spirit of his music.

• Achievements: Ten Grammy Awards, known for his innovative vocal techniques.
• Notable Songs: “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” “Simple Pleasures.”

Conclusion

The 25 legendary male jazz singers featured in this article have redefined the genre and left a lasting impact on the music world.

From the creative innovations of Louis Armstrong and Nat King Cole to the modern-day brilliance of Gregory Porter and Kurt Elling, these iconic artists have demonstrated the incredible versatility, emotion, and artistry that define the very essence of jazz singing.

As we reflect on their contributions, it becomes clear that the legacy of these male jazz singers extends far beyond their careers.

They have inspired countless vocalists, musicians, and music lovers worldwide, ensuring that jazz singing continues to thrive and evolve.

So, put on your favorite records, immerse yourself in their timeless music, and celebrate these legends’ indelible mark on the world of jazz.