New to Jazz? (2)

In an earlier post, we suggested a list of classic jazz recordings for those with a new interest in jazz. In this post, we’d like to go over some must-know jazz artists.

Jazz has a rich history filled with innovators, risk-takers, and unforgettable personalities. Whether you’re just beginning your jazz journey or looking to deepen your listening, these legendary artists helped shape the sound of American music and continue to influence musicians around the world today.

Louis Armstrong (1901 - 1971)

One of the most important figures in all of jazz, Armstrong transformed the music from ensemble-based performance into an art form centered around improvisation and individual expression. His trumpet playing, charisma, and unmistakable voice made jazz accessible to audiences everywhere.

Duke Ellington (1899 - 1974)

A master composer and orchestra leader, Ellington elevated jazz to the concert stage with sophisticated arrangements and timeless works. His music combined elegance, swing, and innovation over a career that spanned more than 50 years.

Charlie Parker (1920 – 1955)

Known as “Bird,” Parker revolutionized jazz with the creation of bebop, a fast, harmonically advanced style that changed improvisation forever. His influence can still be heard in virtually every modern jazz musician.

Ella Fitzgerald (1917 – 1996)

Often called the “First Lady of Song,” Fitzgerald possessed extraordinary vocal range, impeccable phrasing, and legendary scat-singing ability. Her recordings remain some of the most beloved in jazz history.

Miles Davis (1926 – 1991)

Few artists reinvented themselves as often, or as successfully, as Miles Davis. From cool jazz to modal jazz to fusion, he consistently pushed the boundaries of what jazz could become.

John Coltrane (1926 – 1967)

Coltrane’s passionate sound and spiritual approach to music helped redefine the emotional depth of jazz. Albums like “A Love Supreme” are considered masterpieces of American music.

Billie Holiday (1915 – 1959)

Holiday brought profound emotional honesty to jazz singing. Her phrasing, vulnerability, and storytelling ability made every song deeply personal and unforgettable.

Thelonious Monk (1917 – 1982)

Monk’s angular melodies, unusual harmonies, and unmistakable piano style made him one of jazz’s most original voices. Many of his compositions are now considered jazz standards.

Charles Mingus (1922 – 1979)

Mingus blended gospel, blues, classical music, and fierce improvisation into emotionally charged works that remain bold and modern decades later.

Herbie Hancock (1940 - )

A bridge between jazz tradition and innovation, Hancock helped define post-bop, fusion, and modern jazz while continually exploring new sounds and technologies.

Sonny Rollins (1930 – 2026)

Widely considered as one of the greatest improvisers in jazz history, Rollins brought unmatched creativity, humor, and storytelling to the tenor saxophone. His powerful tone and fearless approach to improvisation made every performance feel spontaneous and alive. Albums like “Saxophone Colossus” helped define modern jazz and continue to inspire saxophonists around the world.

Sarah Vaughan (1924 – 1990)

Known for her rich tone, remarkable vocal control, and emotional depth, Sarah Vaughan possessed one of the most technically gifted voices in jazz history. Her ability to move effortlessly between jazz, ballads, and bebop made her a singular talent whose influence can still be heard in vocalists today.

Art Blakey (1919 – 1990)

As the leader of the legendary Jazz Messengers, Blakey helped launch the careers of countless jazz greats while defining the hard bop sound of the 1950s and ’60s. His explosive drumming, infectious energy, and commitment to mentoring young musicians made him one of the most important bandleaders in jazz history.

Jazz is built on creativity, individuality, and conversation, and these artists helped define the language. While not a comprehensive list of artists, this list gives you a good start. If you’ve never explored their music, there’s no better time to start listening.

—Adapted from Boise Jazz Society Newsletter, Erin Westfall