Vocal Improv Solos
Darmon Meader
Great for more advanced transcription - great vocabulary to add to your solos, clear articulations, horn-like
Darmon Meader - Spain (I Can Recall) Solo at 4:21
Darmon Meader - I Thought About You Solo at 2:30
Chet Baker
Perfect spot to start for beginners - clear lines, easy range for female and male vocalists.
Chet Baker - Dancing On The Ceiling Solo at 1:10
Chet Baker - Do It The Hard Way. Solo at :59
Ella Fitzgerald
Ella was one of the first jazz singers to popularize vocal improv — her style is acrobatic, fast and FUN. These are all great solos to transcribe and there are many more.
Ella Fitzgerald Flying Home - Soloing throughout
Ella Fitzgerald How High The Moon - one of Ella’s most iconic solos. Starts at 1:27.
Sarah Vaughan
Another vocalist famous for her vocal improvisation - Sarah’s huge range and velvety tone set her improv a part.
Sarah Vaughan - All of Me Solo at 1:09
Sarah Vaughan - Scat Blues
Nancy King
Nancy King - There Will Never Be Another You Solo at 1:03
Jo Lawry
Jazz/Singer-Songwriter Jo Lawry is a great example of a singer using vocal improvisation masterfully and creatively.
Jo Lawry - I’m Old Fashioned Solo at :53
Jo Lawry - In A Spin Solo at :30
Kurt Elling
Modern jazz master Kurt Elling often uses vocal improvsation, especially in his live performances. His style is horn-like, aggressive and confident.
Kurt Elling - Tight. Solo at 1:01
Kurt Elling - Nature Boy Solo at 3:10
Cyrille Aimee
Cyrille Aimee - Mean To Me Solo at :52
Vocal improv with a looper!
Michael Mayo
Michael Mayo - It Could Happen To You Solo at: 3:58