Sarah Vaughan: Interesting Facts

Among the best jazz vocalists of all time, Sarah Vaughan led a remarkable life and career

1. The ascent of Sarah Vaughan’s popularity started almost unintentionally. Entering the renowned Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater in Harlem in 1942, she was meant to be accompanying a friend. Rather, she played, took first prize, and attracted the attention of jazz greats like Billy Eckstine.


2. Nicknamed “Sassy” for a Reason—Vaughan’s moniker, Sassy, captured her keen wit and lighthearted demeanor rather than only her singing. She never hesitated to express her opinion and was well-known for her funny, usually critical comments.

3. First Female African American Signed to Mercury Records—Vaughan became one of the first African American women signed to Mercury Records in 1954, allowing her to record both jazz and pop albums—rare for Black musicians at the time.

Vaughan had an amazing vocal range extending over three octaves and absolute pitch, the ability to distinguish musical notes without a reference. She developed unmatched vocal control and flexibility from this.

5. turned down a lucrative opera career—Vaughan’s voice was so remarkable that opera was urged upon her. Though she studied briefly with classical voice teachers, she finally decided to remain in jazz since she felt opera was not her calling.

**Worked as a big band pianist—Vaughan was a talented pianist prior to rising to be a world-class vocalist. Showcasing her flexibility as a musician, she performed piano for Earl Hines’ big band.

7. battled with early in her career stage fright Vaughan first had stage anxiety even with her strong on-stage presence. She developed the confidence needed to be a cherished live performer years later.

Vaughan refused to follow industry beauty standards and refused to bow to industry pressure. She rejected the advice of record executives to alter her looks to better fit a more “marketable” look, therefore honoring her own style.

Vaughan was quite fascinated in astrology and frequently visited astrologers while deciding on a major professional path.

10. The First Jazz Artist to Perform Following the Civil Rights Act in the White House Vaughan was among the first jazz musicians asked to perform at the White House in 1965 following the passage of the Civil Rights Act, therefore marking a historic event for both jazz and African American musicians.

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