Mary Lou Williams - Born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1910, Mary Lou Williams was one of the earliest heroines of jazz music.
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Ella Fitzgerald - One of the most celebrated voices in not just jazz but in music in general, Ella Fitzgerald is rightfully called the "First Lady of Song."
Etta James - A beloved figure of the 20th century, Etta James remained one of the most popular singers in America for most of her career after she broke into the mainstream.
Mary Osborne - A pioneer of the use of the electric guitar in jazz, Mary Osborne rose to fame during the 1940s and '50s as a musician with an unparalleled feel for the blues.
Nina Simone - One of the most famous figures in all of music, Nina Simone had a voice and style that was like no other in her time, and attempts to emulate it are continued to this day.
Bertha Hope - Bertha Hope's career, while admittedly sporadic, has earned her a place of high respect in the jazz community.
Bobbi Humphrey - The "First Lady of Flute," Bobbi Humphrey was also the first woman to be signed as a solo artist to the prestigious Blue Note Records label.
Vi Redd - In 1962, Vi Redd made history as the first woman to headline a jazz festival.
Amy Winehouse - Far and away the most famous and sorely missed jazz singer of the 21st century, Amy Winehouse reached superstar status practically overnight.
Maxine Sullivan - An early female figure in jazz, singer Maxine Sullivan was born in Homestead, Pennsylvania, in 1911. She paved the way to success for later performers like Ella Fitzgerald.