Today we recognize Billie Holiday. Considered one of the most influential Jazz vocalists of all time, her distinct delivery made Billie Holiday’s performances instantly recognizable throughout her career. She quickly worked her way up from small nightclubs in New York City to big band tours, collaborating with other jazz greats like Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, and Louis Armstrong.She was a master of improvisation and Billie’s well-trained ear more than compensated for her lack of music education. Billie Holiday became a pioneer of race relations when she toured with Artie Shaw and his orchestra, becoming one of the first African-Americans to sing with a white band. In 2000 she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Jammin 101.5 proudly salutes Billie Holiday.
