Have you ever heard a voice that just stops you in your tracks? A voice that tells a whole story with just a few notes? That’s the magic of a great jazz singer. But with so many incredible names floating around, how do you even begin to find the ones that speak to you?
Choosing your next favorite jazz vocalist can feel overwhelming. You might be searching for that perfect smoky contralto for a quiet evening, or perhaps a powerhouse belter to lift your spirits. The sheer volume of legendary and contemporary artists makes picking where to start a real challenge. You want to discover voices that truly move you, not just the most famous ones.
This post cuts through the noise. We will guide you through the essential voices in jazz history and today. You will learn about the unique styles and signature sounds that make each singer unforgettable. Get ready to fill your playlists with unforgettable music!
Top Jazz Singers Recommendations
- Audio CD – Audiobook
- English (Publication Language)
- 11/09/2011 (Publication Date) - Not Now Uk (Publisher)
![Jazz Singer, The (BD Book) [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41NulmTE47L._SL160_.jpg)
- Factory sealed DVD
- Al Jolson, William Dermarest, May McAvoy (Actors)
- Alan Crosland (Director)
- English (Publication Language)
- Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
- Shrink-wrapped
- Audio CD – Audiobook
- English (Publication Language)
- 11/24/2014 (Publication Date) - Neil Diamond (Publisher)
- Neil Diamond, Laurence Olivier (Actors)
- Richard Fleischer (Director)
- Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
- Audio CD – Audiobook
- 09/07/2017 (Publication Date) - Avid (Publisher)
- P/V/G
- Pages: 402
- Instrumentation: Piano/Vocal/Guitar
- Various (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- Item name: The Jazz Singer [Blu ray]
- Product type: PHYSICAL MOVIE
- Brand: Warner Bros.
- Eugénie Besserer, Al Jolson, Robert Gordon (Actors)
- Alan Crosland (Director)
- Format: Book & Online Audio
- Instrument: Voice
- Genre: Jazz
- Category: Vocal Method
- Contributors: By Michele Weir
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Aspiring Jazz Singers
Choosing the right gear can make a big difference when you sing jazz. This guide helps you pick what you need to sound your best. We focus on microphones, practice tools, and essential accessories for any jazz vocalist.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, check these features first. They directly affect how you sound and how easy the gear is to use.
Microphones: The Voice Catcher
- Polar Pattern: Most jazz singers prefer a Cardioid pattern. This picks up sound mostly from the front. It helps block unwanted noise from the sides and back, like a noisy club or a loud piano.
- Frequency Response: Look for a mic that captures a smooth range, especially in the mid-high frequencies. This helps your voice sound clear and warm, which is key in jazz.
- Durability: Jazz singers often perform live. A sturdy metal build means the mic lasts longer.
Practice Tools
- Recording Quality: If you buy a portable recorder, make sure it records in high quality (WAV format is often better than just MP3). You need to hear every detail when you practice.
- Metronome Accuracy: For rhythm practice, the metronome must be reliable. Digital ones are usually more accurate than old clockwork models.
Important Materials and Build
The materials used in your equipment matter for sound and longevity.
Microphone Construction
High-quality microphones often use brass or heavy-duty metal alloys for the body. This weight helps reduce handling noise—that unwanted thumping sound if you accidentally touch the mic stand. The capsule inside should be protected by a strong steel grille.
Headphones (For Monitoring)
When practicing or recording, you need good headphones. Velour or soft foam earcups are more comfortable for long practice sessions than cheap plastic. Closed-back designs are generally preferred because they keep your monitor sound in and outside noise out.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Small details can greatly change your performance experience.
Improving Quality
- Pop Filters: Using a good pop filter when recording reduces harsh “P” and “B” sounds (plosives). This instantly cleans up your vocal track.
- Shock Mounts: A shock mount suspends the microphone. It stops vibrations from the floor or stand from reaching the mic, which greatly improves recording quality.
Reducing Quality
- Cheap Cables: Using thin, unshielded cables often introduces unwanted static or hum into your signal. Always invest in decent, shielded XLR cables for your microphone.
- Built-in Effects (On Practice Recorders): Sometimes, cheap recorders add digital reverb or effects automatically. These features often mask true vocal flaws, so you want clean, unprocessed sound for practice.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use your gear.
The Gigging Singer
If you play in smoky clubs, you need gear that handles quick setups. A wireless microphone system offers great freedom on stage. A durable mic stand with a heavy base prevents tipping over during energetic performances.
The Home Studio Artist
If you record at home, focus on quiet interfaces and low-noise microphones. A comfortable, adjustable studio chair is important because you might sit for hours perfecting a take. Good acoustic treatment (like foam panels) in your practice room improves recording quality more than an expensive microphone sometimes.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Jazz Singers
Q: Do I need a special microphone just for jazz?
A: Not exactly, but a good quality dynamic microphone with a cardioid pattern works very well for live jazz settings because it rejects background noise.
Q: What is “handling noise” and how do I stop it?
A: Handling noise is the bump or rumble you hear when you touch the mic body. Using a good shock mount or holding the mic stand firmly, not the mic itself, reduces this.
Q: Should I use an acoustic guitar pickup or a vocal mic for my duo gig?
A: You should always use a dedicated vocal microphone for your voice. Guitar pickups are for the instrument; they sound terrible on vocals.
Q: How important is headphone comfort for practice?
A: Very important! If your headphones hurt, you will practice less. Look for lightweight designs with soft earpads.
Q: Can I use my old karaoke microphone for jazz auditions?
A: You can, but cheap karaoke mics often sound thin or harsh. A better mic will let the natural warmth of your jazz tone come through.
Q: What is the best way to practice pitch accuracy?
A: Use a tuner app or a digital keyboard while practicing scales. Record yourself often so you can listen back objectively.
Q: How long should my microphone cable be?
A: A 15 to 25-foot XLR cable is usually perfect for most stages. Shorter cables can limit your movement.
Q: Do I need a preamp if I am just singing into a USB interface?
A: Most modern USB audio interfaces have a built-in preamp. You only need an external preamp if you buy a high-end microphone that needs extra power (phantom power) or a very clean boost.
Q: How often should I clean my microphone grille?
A: You should wipe down the grille after every few gigs or heavy use. Moisture and makeup can build up inside and hurt the diaphragm.
Q: What is the difference between a condenser and a dynamic mic for vocals?
A: Dynamic mics (like the classic stage mics) are tough and great for loud stages. Condenser mics are more sensitive and capture very fine details, making them popular for quiet studio recording.