Sarah Vaughan: Biography, Songs & Life Story | The Divine One
Can a single voice truly define an era of jazz? The power, range, and unparalleled flexibility of Sarah Vaughan's voice solidified her place as one of the most significant vocalists of the 20th century, earning her the affectionate nicknames "Sassy" and "The Divine One."
From the smoky depths of her lower register to the crystalline heights of her upper notes, Vaughan's instrument was a marvel. Her vocal control was matched by an innate sense of phrasing and an improvisational genius that allowed her to transform familiar melodies into breathtaking new expressions. Her interpretations weren't just performances; they were sonic explorations. The impact of her talent resonated deeply throughout the music industry, influencing generations of singers and leaving an indelible mark on the world of jazz and beyond.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sarah Lois Vaughan |
| Born | March 27, 1924, Newark, New Jersey, USA |
| Died | April 3, 1990, Hidden Hills, California, USA (Lung Cancer) |
| Nicknames | Sassy, The Divine One |
| Genres | Jazz, Swing, Bebop, Bossa Nova |
| Instruments | Vocals, Piano |
| Years Active | 1940s - 1990 |
| Parents | Asa Vaughan (carpenter), Ada Vaughan (laundress) |
| Spouses | George Treadwell (m. 19591962), Clyde Atkins (m. 19621965), Marshall Fisher (m. 19651971), Waymon Reed (m. 19781979) |
| Children | Adopted daughter: Paris |
| Awards and Honors | Two Grammy Awards (including Lifetime Achievement), NEA Jazz Masters Award (1989) |
| Notable Albums | Sarah Vaughan Sings George Gershwin (1958), No Count Sarah (with Count Basie Orchestra, 1959), Brazilian Romance (1987) |
| Reference Website | Britannica: Sarah Vaughan |
Vaughan's career took flight in the 1940s. Her early recordings, capturing her fresh voice and innovative approach, instantly stood out. The singles discography of American jazz artist Sarah Vaughan includes an impressive count of 89 singles, alongside two promotional singles and seven other songs that achieved chart success. The 1946 recordings marked the beginning of her recording journey, with "If You Could See Me Now" as her debut release. Her versatility quickly became apparent; she effortlessly navigated the complexities of bebop, the smooth elegance of swing, and later, the sensuality of bossa nova. This artistic dexterity allowed her to collaborate with some of the greatest names in jazz. A collaborative release with the Count Basie Orchestra, titled "No Count Sarah," reached the top 20 of the UK albums chart in 1959, marking a significant milestone in her international recognition. She also collaborated with the likes of Billy Eckstine and Dizzy Gillespie and Earl Hines and His Orchestra.
The 1958 album, "Sarah Vaughan Sings George Gershwin," is a testament to her vocal command, which would later chart in the top 50 of the Billboard Traditional Jazz Albums chart. The release was a critical and commercial success that enhanced her reputation as an interpreter of the Great American Songbook. Further expanding her repertoire, she fearlessly embraced the sounds of Brazilian music. Her album "Sarah Vaughan," released in 1977 and accompanied by Brazilian musicians such as Milton Nascimento, Dori Caymmi, and Antnio Carlos Jobim, was another pivotal release. This album marked her first foray into bossa nova/MPB, setting the stage for further explorations with "Copacabana" (1979) and "Brazilian Romance" (1987), and it was also her first album for Pablo Records.
Beyond her artistic accomplishments, Vaughans personal life was as complex and captivating as her music. Married and divorced four times, she experienced personal challenges that never diminished her professional commitment. Though she did not have any biological children, she was a proud mother to her adopted daughter, Paris. Despite the passage of decades since her death, the memories of her linger on. Funeral services were held in her hometown of Newark, reflecting the profound impact she had on her community and the lasting appreciation for her contributions to American culture. Sarah Vaughan's life, filled with her triumphs and tribulations, has been immortalized in documentaries and biographies, which keep her legacy alive for future generations.
Vaughans influence extended beyond the recording studio and the concert hall. She received numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards, a testament to her musical genius and enduring popularity. A 1989 NEA Jazz Masters Award further solidified her status as a pivotal figure in the history of jazz. She was married four times, to Trumpeter George Treadwell, former pro football player Clyde Atkins, Las Vegas restaurateur Marshall Fisher, and musician Waymon Reed. Each of these relationships undoubtedly contributed to the tapestry of her life, influencing her artistry. Despite facing personal hardships, Vaughan was able to maintain the dedication of her fans, and to record continuously, keeping her impact on music strong.
Her voice was a rare combination of power, precision, and emotional depth. As a jazz singer, she could deliver a song with all its emotional nuances, making it deeply personal. Vaughan's interpretations of jazz standards were not merely covers; they were re-imaginings, each note a stroke of genius. Her phrasing was distinctive, and her improvisations demonstrated a rare ability to convey complex emotions. The "Top 10 Sarah Vaughan Songs" list offers a glimpse into her extensive discography. Her best songs included "Send in the Clowns" and "Broken Hearted Melody". These are not just collections of songs; they represent the culmination of a lifetime of dedicated craftsmanship. Her contributions, captured on record and in live performances, will continue to inspire musicians and delight audiences.
The journey of Sarah Vaughan's career reflects a vibrant and diverse journey, from her early days as a rising star in the 1940s to her later years. She began recording at an early stage, with the first release being "If You Could See Me Now". Her musicality was a constant evolving, the early music being her first professional releases. She had a rich musical background and grew up in a household surrounded by music. Born in Newark, New Jersey, on March 27, 1924, the daughter of a carpenter and a laundress, she began her musical training in a religious context within the Baptist church, where she learned to sing and play the harmonium. Her musical versatility allowed her to work in churches while singing in choirs at the church, thus further developing her skills.
Her double skill with both singing and playing piano allowed her to work in several musical environments, including church choirs. It gave her a strong understanding of music theory that would prove very useful in her jazz career. This dual talent allowed her to perform in church settings, and in school bands. This training was crucial in developing her remarkable ear for pitch, and her ability to improvise, skills that would soon become hallmarks of her professional career. The stage became her calling after winning the amateur contest at the Apollo Theater, marking the beginning of her professional journey. This early exposure to performance helped her develop her stage presence and allowed her to refine her performance skills.
Vaughans approach was not static; she constantly experimented, incorporating elements from various styles, including swing, bebop, and bossa nova. Her willingness to explore allowed her to collaborate with a diverse group of musicians. She was able to collaborate with a wide array of artists and expand her repertoire. This resulted in a discography that continues to be celebrated. The albums and live recordings that she released document a continuous evolution that is a true testament to her talent. Each recording reflects her dedication to the art form and her unwavering commitment to excellence. "Sarah Vaughan" is ranked number 1,603 in the overall greatest album chart with a total rank score of 1,071. Vaughan's ranking in overall artist rankings is number 848, with a total score of 1,959.
Her legacy endures. The dedication of her fans, and the work of her adopted daughter and grandchildren, keep her memory alive. Her contributions to the art of music have made a lasting impact on many listeners. The details of her life, her career, and her personal relationships, continue to fascinate and intrigue. The story of "Sassy" is a story of overcoming obstacles and embracing her gift of music. With a career spanning several decades and impacting generations, Vaughans contributions stand as a testament to the timeless power of jazz music.
Her journey reflects a dynamic life from her early days, through her four marriages, to her death in 1990. Vaughan's influence continues to inspire and challenge musicians, and is a continuing reminder of her impact on the world. This is a legacy built on talent, resilience, and an unwavering devotion to her craft. The music of Sarah Vaughan remains a source of inspiration, offering beauty, emotion, and artistry to all who have the good fortune to hear it.
The final years were lived under the shadow of illness. Sarah Vaughan died of lung cancer in Hidden Hills, California, on April 3, 1990. It was a loss felt deeply by those who knew her. Sarah Vaughan's voice, a symbol of jazz artistry, continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of music to heal and inspire. Her adopted daughter survived her.
