November 18, 2025
Shelia Jordan
Sheila Jeannette Jordan (née Dawson; November 18, 1928 – August 11, 2025) was an American jazzsinger 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. Jordan’s music has earned praise from many critics, particularly for her ability to improvise lyrics; Scott Yanow described her as “one of the most consistently creative of all jazz singers”.[2] Charlie Parker often introduced Jordan as “the lady with the million dollar ears”.