Anita O'Day

This dizzy dame can scat like a woman possessed, then turn right around and quietly perform a perfect torch song. Hitting the big time with Gene Krupa, O'Day origianally sounded like Billie Holiday and unfortunately, shared her bad habits. But right off the bat, she had her own goofy sense of humor and a loose, improvisational style that was fresh and by the time Stan Kenton signed her up, O'Day was completely unique. From there, she went solo and recorded a great series of records on Verve. Whether with big bands, West Coast innovators or small groups, her vocal prowess dazzled. She's still at it today and has been embraced by a whole new swing generation.