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Sarah Vaughan Sarah Vaughan, also known as "Sassy" and "The Divine One," was a highly influential American jazz singer known for her exceptional vocal range, rich tone, and impressive improvisational skills. Born on March 27, 1924, in Newark, New Jersey, Vaughan began singing in church at a young age and quickly developed a love for music. Vaughan's professional career began in the 1940s when she won an amateur singing contest at the Apollo Theater in Harlem. She soon caught the attention of bandleader Earl Hines, who hired her as a singer in his band. Vaughan's time with Hines helped establish her as a rising star in the jazz world and led to opportunities to perform and record with other prominent musicians, including Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker. Vaughan's vocal style was characterized by its versatility and range. She was equally comfortable singing ballads, bebop, and swing, and her ability to effortlessly navigate complex melodic lines and harmonies set her apart from other singers of her time. Vaughan's voice was often compared to that of an instrument, with critics praising her impeccable intonation and vocal control. One of Vaughan's most famous recordings is her 1954 album "Sarah Vaughan with Clifford Brown," which is considered one of the greatest jazz vocal albums of all time. The album features Vaughan's lush vocals alongside the trumpet playing of Clifford Brown, creating a perfect blend of melody and improvisation. Throughout her career, Vaughan continued to push the boundaries of jazz singing, incorporating elements of R&B, pop, and even opera into her music. Her influence on jazz and popular music is immeasurable, and she remains one of the most respected and admired vocalists in the history of jazz. Sarah Vaughan passed away on April 3, 1990, but her music lives on as a testament to her extraordinary talent and enduring impact on jazz and music as a whole. She is remembered not only for her remarkable voice but also for her groundbreaking contributions to the art of jazz singing.