Thankfully past female vocalists have forged a path through jazz for today’s jazz female vocalist in LA. Despite jazz bandleaders and their struggle with discrimination in the early 20th century there was little to no tolerance for female talent. In a lot of cases female vocalists, known as the girl singer, were also responsible for songwriting although writing compositions and arrangements wasn’t exactly welcomed either. However, over time multi-talented women overcame those obstacles and left a lasting mark on the jazz music industry. They had their music published, and they became commercial hits allowing for a even more successful vehicle for jazz.
The Talent of Lil Hardin Armstrong
Although Lil Hardin Armstrong did not receive the credit she deserved for her role in advancing her husband’s career, she still has a significant place in the history of jazz. Her husband was none other than Louis Armstrong, the jazz legend. However, her position in jazz history had nothing to do with her connection to her husband. She wrote famous compositions such as “Just for a Thrill” and “Bad Boy” that have been included in over five hundred jazz recordings to date. She clearly left her mark with famous singers such as Ray Charles and Ringo Starr who have performed her music.
The Incomparable and Talented Billie Holiday
Did you have any idea that Billie Holiday was also a songwriter? She composed and co-wrote several songs that have become classic jazz standards. Due to the ASCAP strike in the 40’s her written music wasn’t played on the airwaves by radio stations. Instead she found the opportunity to keep improving her songwriting skills and produced compositions including “God Bless the Child”, “Fine and Mellow” and “Don’t Explain”. Not only could Billie Holiday right great music she proved without a doubt that her singing performance was also second to none.
