What Vocalist Was Known For Their Scat Singing?

Introduction

Scat singing is a unique vocal technique that involves improvising vocal sounds and nonsense syllables over a musical melody. It is a form of vocal jazz improvisation that gained popularity during the early 20th century. Vocalists who excel in scat singing have a remarkable ability to mimic instruments and create intricate melodies using only their voice.

Scat singing adds an extra layer of creativity and musicality to a performance, allowing vocalists to explore their improvisational skills while adding a distinct flavor to a song. It requires a deep understanding of music theory, rhythm, and a strong sense of timing. Through scatting, vocalists can express their unique style and personality, bringing a new level of energy and excitement to their performances.

The roots of scat singing can be traced back to African-American musicians in the early 20th century, who used vocal sounds to imitate instrumental solos in jazz performances. This innovative vocal technique has since become a staple in the jazz genre and has influenced countless vocalists across various music styles.

In this article, we will explore the rich history of scat singing and highlight some of the most renowned vocalists who were known for their exceptional scatting abilities. From jazz legends to modern-day artists, these vocalists have left an indelible mark on the music industry with their unique interpretations and extraordinary vocal skills. Join us on this journey to discover the fascinating world of scat singing and the vocalists who mastered this captivating art form.

Definition of Scat Singing

Scat singing is a vocal technique where singers use improvised melodies, nonsense syllables, and vocal sounds to create rhythmic patterns and melodic lines. It is a form of vocal jazz improvisation that allows singers to express themselves creatively and add a unique touch to their performances.

In scat singing, vocalists often mimic the sounds of various musical instruments, such as trumpets, saxophones, and drums, by using their voices. They create rhythmic patterns, melodic phrases, and even imitate instrumental solos. The syllables used in scat singing do not have any specific meaning; their purpose is to create rhythmic and melodic patterns that enhance the musicality of the performance.

Scat singing requires a strong sense of timing, a good ear for harmony, and a deep understanding of music theory. Vocalists who excel in scatting have the ability to improvise melodies on the spot, seamlessly blending their vocalizations with the music.

This vocal technique originated in the early 20th century, primarily in African-American jazz music. Music legends such as Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and Cab Calloway popularized scat singing, paving the way for future generations of vocalists to explore and master this unique style of vocal improvisation.

Scat singing is not limited to jazz music. It has found its way into other genres, such as blues, swing, and even contemporary popular music. Vocalists from various genres have incorporated elements of scat singing into their performances, adding a dynamic and engaging element to their singing.

Overall, scat singing is a dynamic and expressive vocal technique that allows singers to showcase their creativity, musicality, and improvisational skills. It adds a distinct and captivating element to performances, making it a beloved technique embraced by vocalists across different musical genres.

History of Scat Singing

The roots of scat singing can be traced back to the early 20th century, particularly within the African-American jazz community. It emerged as a unique vocal style that allowed musicians to imitate the sounds of instruments and create improvised melodies using their voices.

The term “scat” itself is believed to have originated from Louis Armstrong, one of the iconic pioneers of scat singing. It is thought to have derived from the word “scat,” which was used as a slang term to describe improvisation in jazz music.

Scat singing gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, coinciding with the golden age of jazz. Musicians like Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, and Ella Fitzgerald played a significant role in popularizing scat singing and establishing it as a recognized vocal technique.

Louis Armstrong, often referred to as the “Father of Scat,” used his distinctive gravelly voice and expert sense of rhythm to create memorable scat performances. His recordings like “Heebie Jeebies” and “West End Blues” showcased his remarkable ability to improvise vocally and captivate listeners with his infectious energy.

Ella Fitzgerald, known as the “First Lady of Song,” took scat singing to new heights with her incredible vocal range and improvisational skills. Her scat performances on songs like “How High the Moon” and “Mack the Knife” became legendary and set a benchmark for future scat singers to aspire to.

Cab Calloway, a charismatic entertainer, brought scat singing into the mainstream with his energetic performances. His hit song “Minnie the Moocher” featured a scat singing section that became one of his signature moments on stage.

As the years progressed, scat singing continued to evolve and expand its influence beyond jazz. Artists like Mel Tormé, Sarah Vaughan, Al Jarreau, and Jon Hendricks embraced scat singing and incorporated it into their own unique styles. These vocalists pushed the boundaries of scat singing, experimenting with new patterns, techniques, and vocalizations.

Today, scat singing remains an important part of jazz and has also made its way into other genres. It continues to inspire and influence vocalists around the world, reminding us of the rich history and enduring impact of this captivating vocal technique.

Notable Vocalists Known for Scat Singing

Scat singing has produced a plethora of incredibly talented vocalists who have left an indelible mark on the music industry. These artists have showcased their exceptional scatting abilities and have become renowned for their unique interpretations and extraordinary vocal skills. Here are seven notable vocalists known for their mastery of scat singing:

1. Louis Armstrong: Considered the “Father of Scat,” Louis Armstrong pioneered scat singing and set the standard for future generations. His gravelly voice, impeccable timing, and inventive scat improvisations made him a legend in the jazz world.
2. Ella Fitzgerald: Known as the “First Lady of Song,” Ella Fitzgerald was a vocal powerhouse and a master of scatting. Her flawless technique, incredible vocal range, and infectious energy brought scat singing to new heights.
3. Cab Calloway: Cab Calloway was an electrifying performer known for his energetic stage presence and captivating scat singing. His iconic rendition of “Minnie the Moocher” showcased his dynamic vocal abilities and helped popularize scat singing among a wider audience.
4. Mel Tormé: Mel Tormé, also known as the “Velvet Fog,” possessed a smooth and velvety voice that perfectly complemented his scatting skills. His impeccable phrasing and control made him one of the most influential scat singers of his time.
5. Sarah Vaughan: Sarah Vaughan’s rich, resonant voice and impeccable sense of timing made her scat performances truly extraordinary. Her ability to seamlessly transition from singing to scatting impressed audiences and cemented her status as one of the greatest jazz vocalists.
6. Al Jarreau: Al Jarreau was a versatile vocalist known for his innovative approach to scatting. His unique vocalizations and breathtaking improvisations elevated scat singing to new heights, earning him numerous Grammy Awards and adoration from fans worldwide.
7. Jon Hendricks: Jon Hendricks, a jazz vocalist and lyricist, was a master of vocalese – a style of singing that combines scat singing with reimagined lyrics. His ability to tell stories through scatting and his intricate vocal arrangements made him a true pioneer in the world of scat singing.

These vocalists, among many others, have played a pivotal role in shaping the history of scat singing. Their contributions have inspired countless aspiring vocalists to explore the art of scatting and continue to influence the world of music today.

Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong, nicknamed “Satchmo” and “Pops,” is often hailed as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time. Alongside his virtuosic trumpet playing, Armstrong was a trailblazer in scat singing, earning him the title of the “Father of Scat.” His gravelly voice, infectious energy, and inventive scat improvisations made him a beloved figure in the jazz community and beyond.

Born in 1901 in New Orleans, Armstrong’s musical talent was evident from a young age. He began his career as a cornet and trumpet player, but it was his unique vocal abilities that would set him apart. Armstrong’s scat singing style was characterized by his ability to improvise melodies and rhythms on the spot, blending vocal sounds with his horn-inspired phrasing.

Armstrong’s scat singing prowess was showcased in recordings such as “Heebie Jeebies” and “West End Blues.” In the 1926 recording of “Heebie Jeebies,” Armstrong unintentionally made music history. As the story goes, his sheet music fell off the stand during the recording, prompting him to continue singing using improvised vocal sounds. This marked one of the earliest instances of recorded scat singing and solidified Armstrong’s reputation as a pioneer in the genre.

Armstrong’s scat singing was characterized by his distinctive gravelly voice, unique sense of timing, and virtuosic control. He effortlessly weaved intricate vocal lines and melodic patterns, imitating the sounds of various instruments with his voice. Armstrong’s scatting was not only technically impressive but also infused with a sense of joy and exuberance, captivating audiences around the world.

Beyond his scatting abilities, Armstrong’s legacy as a musician and cultural icon cannot be overstated. His contributions to jazz, swing, and popular music revolutionized the genre and set new standards for improvisation and expression. His influence can still be heard in the performances of contemporary jazz vocalists and instrumentalists alike.

Louis Armstrong’s scat singing is a testament to his immense talent and creativity. He pushed the boundaries of vocal expression and brought a new dimension to jazz and popular music. With his infectious smile, charismatic stage presence, and unmatched musicality, Louis Armstrong left an enduring legacy as one of the greatest scat singers and jazz icons of all time.

Ella Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald, often referred to as the “First Lady of Song,” was a vocal powerhouse with an extraordinary ability to scat sing. Born in 1917 in Newport News, Virginia, Fitzgerald’s scatting skills became legendary and set a benchmark for future scat singers to aspire to.

Fitzgerald’s scat singing was characterized by her flawless technique, incredible vocal range, and unparalleled improvisational skills. She had the ability to effortlessly weave intricate melodies with her scatting, creating a seamless blend of vocalizations and musicality. Her scat performances were not merely displays of technical prowess but also infused with emotion and a deep sense of swing.

One of Fitzgerald’s most iconic scat performances can be heard in her rendition of “How High the Moon.” This recording showcases her mastery of scatting, as she effortlessly navigates complex melodic lines, imitates instrumental solos, and interacts with the rhythm section. Her scatting on this track became a defining moment in her career and solidified her status as one of the greatest scat singers of all time.

Fitzgerald’s ability to mimic instruments with her voice, such as trumpets and saxophones, was a testament to her musicality and versatility. She approached scatting with a playful and adventurous spirit, using vocal sounds and nonsensical syllables to create intricate patterns and rhythmic variations. Her scatting was not only technically impressive but also deeply expressive, captivating audiences and leaving them in awe.

Fitzgerald’s scat singing prowess extended beyond her solo performances. Throughout her career, she collaborated with many renowned musicians, including Louis Armstrong, with whom she engaged in scatting duets. Their remarkable chemistry and improvisational dialogues elevated scat singing to new heights and became indelible moments in jazz history.

Ella Fitzgerald’s contributions to scat singing and jazz as a whole are immeasurable. Her influence can still be heard in the performances of modern-day vocalists, who continue to draw inspiration from her groundbreaking approach. As one of the most celebrated and influential jazz vocalists of all time, Ella Fitzgerald’s scatting legacy continues to shine brightly, serving as a testament to her unparalleled talent and undeniable artistry.

Cab Calloway

Cab Calloway, a charismatic entertainer known for his energetic stage presence, was a master of scat singing. Born in 1907 in Rochester, New York, Calloway’s scatting abilities captivated audiences and helped popularize scat singing among a wider audience during the swing era.

Calloway’s scat singing style was characterized by his dynamic vocal delivery, playful improvisations, and infectious energy. His iconic rendition of “Minnie the Moocher” featured a scat singing section that became one of his signature moments on stage. Calloway’s scatting on this track, with the famous “hi-de-ho” scat phrase, became one of the most recognizable and imitated scatting performances in jazz history.

In addition to his mesmerizing scatting, Calloway was known for his unique stage presence and theatrical performances. His animated gestures, flashy outfits, and infectious charisma elevated his scatting to an unforgettable visual experience. Calloway’s theatricality and showmanship brought a new level of excitement and entertainment to scat singing.

Throughout his career, Calloway continued to push the boundaries of scat singing. He often incorporated humor and storytelling into his scat performances, engaging audiences with his witty lyrics and animated vocalizations. His ability to connect with his audience, coupled with his scatting skills, made him a beloved figure in the music industry.

Calloway’s influence extended beyond the realm of scat singing. He was widely regarded as one of the key figures in the development of big band and swing music. His energetic performances and unique vocal style paved the way for future generations of musicians, leaving an indelible mark on the history of jazz.

Cab Calloway’s scat singing was a testament to his unparalleled talent and innovative approach to music. His distinctive voice, theatrical flair, and infectious energy made him a true legend of scat singing. His contributions to the genre continue to inspire both vocalists and audiences, reminding us of the vibrant and dynamic nature of this unique vocal technique.

Mel Tormé

Mel Tormé, also known as the “Velvet Fog,” was a versatile vocalist known for his smooth voice and exceptional scat singing abilities. Born in 1925, Tormé became renowned for his impeccable phrasing, control, and his ability to effortlessly blend scatting with his melodic interpretations.

Tormé’s scat singing style was characterized by his velvety tone, rhythmic precision, and intricate vocal improvisations. He had a remarkable ability to seamlessly transition from singing to scatting, weaving intricate melodies and rhythmic patterns with ease. Tormé’s scat performances showcased his technical prowess, as he flawlessly imitated instrumental solos and added vibrant layers of improvisation.

Tormé’s scatting could be heard in many of his recordings, including his notable rendition of “Lulu’s Back in Town.” In this recording, Tormé demonstrated his virtuosity as he effortlessly maneuvered through complex scat vocalizations, capturing the essence of the jazz genre with his vocal improvisations.

One of Tormé’s unique contributions to scat singing was his incorporation of vocalese – a style of singing that combines scat singing with reimagined lyrics. He would often take instrumental solos and create clever and inventive lyrics to accompany them. This innovative approach added a new dimension to his scat performances and further showcased his exceptional talent as a vocalist and lyricist.

Tormé’s scatting skills were complemented by his deep understanding of music theory and his ability to navigate complex chord changes. His musical knowledge allowed him to explore new harmonic territories in his scat improvisations, delighting audiences with unexpected melodic twists and turns.

Throughout his career, Mel Tormé’s scatting prowess earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. He won the hearts of audiences with his velvety voice, impeccable technique, and his ability to bring soulful emotions to his scatting performances.

Mel Tormé’s remarkable contributions to scat singing and his overall artistry continue to influence and inspire vocalists today. His unique blend of smooth vocals, scatting skills, and musicality made him an iconic figure in the jazz world and a true master of the art of vocal improvisation.

Sarah Vaughan

Sarah Vaughan, often referred to as “Sassy” or the “Divine One,” was a highly influential vocalist known for her mesmerizing voice and remarkable scat singing abilities. Born in 1924, Vaughan’s rich, resonant voice and impeccable sense of timing made her one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time.

Vaughan’s scat singing style was marked by her fluidity, agility, and emotional depth. She had a rare ability to effortlessly navigate complex melodic lines while infusing her scat performances with a sense of expressiveness and storytelling. Vaughan’s scatting was characterized by her extraordinary vocal control, melodic accuracy, and her delicate use of dynamics.

One of Vaughan’s most remarkable scat performances can be heard in her rendition of “Shulie a Bop.” In this recording, she showcased her incredible range, flawless execution, and command of the scatting technique. Her scat improvisations effortlessly blended with the rhythm section, creating a mesmerizing synergy that captivated listeners.

Vaughan’s scat singing was not confined to virtuosic displays of technical prowess. She had the rare ability to infuse her scatting with deep emotional intensity, making her performances truly captivating. Her scat interpretations had a distinct sense of soulfulness and vulnerability, leaving a profound impact on her audience.

Vaughan’s scatting skills were complemented by her wide vocal range, which enabled her to effortlessly transition between registers and explore the full spectrum of her voice. Her ability to effortlessly switch between singing and scatting in the same phrase further showcased her versatility and musicality.

Beyond her scatting abilities, Vaughan’s contributions to jazz were vast. Her interpretations of jazz standards, her groundbreaking vocal improvisations, and her ability to fuse different musical styles made her one of the most influential jazz vocalists of her time.

Today, Sarah Vaughan’s scat singing continues to inspire and influence vocalists across diverse genres. Her mastery of scatting, coupled with her captivating voice and deep musicality, left an enduring legacy that resonates with generations of musicians and fans. Sarah Vaughan will forever be remembered as one of the most extraordinary scat singers and jazz icons in history.

Al Jarreau

Al Jarreau, a versatile vocalist with a captivating stage presence, is renowned for his innovative approach to scat singing. Born in 1940, Jarreau’s unique vocalizations and breathtaking improvisations have earned him numerous Grammy Awards and the adoration of fans worldwide.

Jarreau’s scat singing style was characterized by his distinctive vocalizations, rhythmic agility, and his ability to seamlessly blend scatting with his melodic interpretations. He had a remarkable knack for creating intricate vocal arrangements, effortlessly weaving scat improvisations alongside the lyrics of a song.

One of Jarreau’s standout scat performances can be heard in his rendition of “Take Five.” In this recording, he masterfully combines scat singing with lyrics, effortlessly navigating through complex rhythmic patterns and delivering with precision and flair. Jarreau’s scatting showcased his exceptional vocal control, melodic creativity, and his ability to push the boundaries of vocal expression.

Jarreau’s influence extended beyond traditional jazz boundaries, as he seamlessly incorporated elements of other genres, such as R&B, soul, and pop, into his scatting performances. This innovative merging of styles allowed him to connect with a wide range of audiences and solidified his status as a true musical innovator.

Jarreau possessed a charismatic stage presence and a deep connection with his audience. His scatting performances were not only technically impressive but also infused with emotion, storytelling, and a sense of playfulness. He had a unique ability to engage and mesmerize his listeners, making every scat-filled expression a joyful and mesmerizing experience.

Jarreau’s scatting skills were matched by his superb vocal range, effortlessly gliding between registers and exploring the full potential of his voice. He effortlessly navigated through intricate melodic lines with precision and a natural sense of rhythm.

Al Jarreau’s groundbreaking scat singing continues to inspire and captivate vocalists of all genres. His ability to blend scatting with lyrical storytelling, his seamless fusion of various musical styles, and his unparalleled stage presence make him a true icon of modern scat singing. Jarreau’s contributions to the art of vocal improvisation will forever be celebrated and serve as a testament to his extraordinary talent and musical innovation.

Jon Hendricks

Jon Hendricks, a jazz vocalist and lyricist, is best remembered for his mastery of vocalese – a style that combines scat singing with reimagined lyrics. Born in 1921, Hendricks not only revolutionized scat singing but also paved the way for a new form of storytelling through his inventive use of words.

Hendricks’ scatting style was characterized by his rapid-fire delivery, precise articulation, and intricate vocal arrangements. He had an uncanny ability to seamlessly weave scat improvisations with cleverly crafted lyrics, transforming instrumental solos into vocal masterpieces.

One of Hendricks’ most celebrated contributions to scat singing is his vocalese rendition of “Freddie Freeloader,” originally composed and performed by Miles Davis. In this recording, Hendricks not only scats along with the instrumental melody but also incorporates his self-penned lyrics, breathing new life into the composition. His vocalese adaptations added a new dimension to scatting, allowing vocalists to merge storytelling with improvisation.

Hendricks’ lyrical talents extended beyond his vocalese work. He often used scatting to create intricate vocal harmonies, mimicking the sounds of multiple instruments with his voice. His vocalese arrangements were complex and highly demanding, showcasing his profound understanding of music theory and his ability to reimagine musical compositions.

Hendricks’ influence on jazz and scat singing extended beyond his own performances. He collaborated with many notable musicians, including the vocal group Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, which became known for their innovative vocalese arrangements and intricate scat harmonies. The group’s recordings, such as “Cloudburst” and “Cottontail,” solidified their reputation as pioneers in the world of scat singing and vocal jazz.

Jon Hendricks’ groundbreaking contributions to scat singing and vocalese forever transformed the landscape of vocal jazz. His ability to intertwine words and scatting, along with his intricate vocal arrangements, have left an indelible mark on the genre. Hendricks’ legacy serves as an inspiration for vocalists seeking to combine storytelling, improvisation, and inventive scat singing techniques in their own performances.

Conclusion

Scat singing is a distinctive vocal technique that has enriched the world of music, particularly in the jazz genre. From its origins in the early 20th century to the present day, scat singing has captivated audiences with its improvisational spirit and creative vocalizations.

Throughout this article, we have explored the history of scat singing, from its African-American jazz roots to its evolution into other musical genres. We have delved into the lives and contributions of notable vocalists who have mastered the art of scatting and left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Cab Calloway, Mel Tormé, Sarah Vaughan, Al Jarreau, and Jon Hendricks have all displayed extraordinary talent in their scatting abilities. Each vocalist brought their unique style, technique, and storytelling ability to the art of scat singing, pushing its boundaries and inspiring future generations of vocalists.

Scat singing continues to be a dynamic and captivating vocal technique embraced by artists today. Its ability to add an extra layer of creativity, improvisation, and musicality to a performance makes it a beloved feature in jazz, blues, and even contemporary popular music.

As we conclude our exploration of scat singing and the vocalists who have made it an art form, we are reminded of the power of human expression and the limitless possibilities of the human voice. Scat singing allows vocalists to break free from traditional lyrical constraints and venture into the realm of pure musicality, where vocalizations become an instrument of their own.

Whether it’s the infectious energy of Louis Armstrong, the melodic brilliance of Ella Fitzgerald, the theatrical flair of Cab Calloway, the smoothness of Mel Tormé, the soulfulness of Sarah Vaughan, the innovation of Al Jarreau, or the lyrical genius of Jon Hendricks, each vocalist has contributed to the vibrant legacy of scat singing.

Scat singing invites us to embrace the joy of improvisation, to revel in the freedom of vocal expression, and to celebrate the boundless creativity of musicians throughout history. It continues to inspire and captivate, reminding us of the power of the human voice to transcend boundaries and touch the soul.