Sarah Vaughan

Sarah Vaughan, an illustrious figure in American jazz, began her musical journey at the tender age of seven. Her early training included eight years of piano lessons and two years studying the organ. Vaughan's passion for music flourished in her youth as she sang in the choir at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Newark and showcased her talents in high school productions at Arts High School.

Her big break came when she entered an amateur contest at the famed Apollo Theater in Harlem, where her rendition of "Body and Soul" won her a $10 prize and a week-long engagement at the venue. From 1944 to 1945, she toured with the celebrated Billy Eckstine. In 1947, Vaughan married her manager, trumpeter George Treadwell, and had subsequent marriages with professional football player Clyde Atkins and trumpeter Waymon Reed.

Throughout her career, Vaughan garnered numerous accolades, solidifying her status as a jazz legend. She was awarded an Emmy in 1981 for her exceptional tribute to George Gershwin, and in 1983, she received a Grammy, further underscoring her extraordinary contributions to music. Vaughan’s rich, expressive voice and innovative style have left an indelible mark on the jazz genre, inspiring countless artists and captivating audiences worldwide.