Shirley Horn

Known for

Acting

Born

May 1, 1934

Birthplace

Washington, District of Columbia, USA

Died

October 20, 2005 (aged 71)

Biography

Shirley Valerie Horn (May 1, 1934 – October 20, 2005) was an American jazz singer and pianist. She collaborated with many jazz musicians including Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Toots Thielemans, Ron Carter, Carmen McRae, Wynton Marsalis and others. She was most noted for her ability to accompany herself with nearly incomparable independence and ability on the piano while singing, something described by arranger Johnny Mandel as "like having two heads", and for her rich, lush voice, a smoky contralto, which was described by noted producer and arranger Quincy Jones as "like clothing, as she seduces you with her voice".

Shirley Horn was born and raised in Washington, D.C. Encouraged by her gra...