Sheila Jordan

Sheila Jeannette Jordan ( Dawson; November 18, 1928 – August 11, 2025) was an American jazz singer and songwriter. She recorded as a session musician with an array of critically acclaimed artists in addition to recording her own albums. Jordan pioneered a bebop and scat jazz singing style, with an upright bass as the only accompaniment.

Life and career Early career Sheila Jeanette Dawson was born in Detroit, on November 18, 1928. Her father left soon after her birth and remarried. (She later met her half-siblings.) Her mother struggled with alcoholism,

Jordan returned to live with her mother in Detroit by 1942, and at other New York venues. Duke Jordan's heroin addiction contributed to their 1962 divorce, but they had a daughter, Tracey, whom she "could truly love" and was "sure would love me back". In 1962, she recorded "You Are My Sunshine" with George Russell on his album The Outer View (Riverside) and also recorded her debut album Portrait of Sheila, released on Blue Note in 1963.

Awards and honors 2006: Manhattan Association of Cabarets & Clubs Lifetime Achievement Award 2007: International Association for Jazz Education Humanitarian Award 2008: Mary Lou Williams Award for Lifetime of Service to Jazz 2010: New York Nightlife Award – Outstanding Jazz Vocalist

Discography As leader

Looking out (1961) Portrait of Sheila (Blue Note, 1963) – recorded in 1962 Confirmation (East Wind, 1975) Last Year's Waltz (ECM, 1981) Lost and Found (Muse, 1989)

With Cameron Brown Here and How! (OmniTone 1997) I've Grown Accustomed to the Bass (HighNote, 2000)

With Bill Kirchner Nonet One Starry Night (Jazzheads, 2010)

With Bob Moses When Elephants Dream of Music (Rykodisc, 1982)

With Roswell Rudd Flexible Flyer (Arista/Freedom 1974) Blown Bone (Philips, 1979) Broad Strokes (Knitting Factory, 2000)

With Steve Swallow Home (ECM, 1980)