The Other Etta!
Jazz great Etta Jones was born in Aikens, South Carolina in 1928 & moved to New York City at age 3. She is often confused her with Etta James and the Etta Jones who sang with Dorothy Dandridge in the 1930s.
Etta started her career as a member of a big band led by pianist Buddy Johnson. She stayed with the band for a little over a year and recorded her first album.
“Don't Go To Strangers,” sold a million copies and earned her a gold record. Etta teamed up with saxophonist Houston Pearson and his trio & the two performed together for almost three decades.
Etta jones passed away in 2001 at age 72. #ettajones
You know, for the longest time, whenever I heard 'Etta,' my mind immediately jumped to Etta James. But after really digging into the world of jazz, I discovered the incredible artistry of Etta Jones, and let me tell you, she's a powerhouse in her own right! The original article gives a great intro, but there's so much more to her story. One thing that truly sets Etta Jones apart is her incredibly nuanced and soulful vocal delivery. While Etta James is known for her raw, powerful, and often blues-infused rock and roll vocals, Etta Jones had a smoother, more sophisticated, yet equally heartfelt approach to jazz and blues standards. Her voice had this amazing warmth and clarity, often described as 'mellow' but with an underlying strength that could just melt you. It’s a sound that perfectly embodies classic jazz. Her iconic hit, 'Don't Go To Strangers,' which sold a million copies, is a perfect example of her magic. It’s not just a song; it's a tender, melancholic ballad that showcases her ability to convey deep emotion with seemingly effortless control. When I first heard it, I was captivated by how she made every word count, drawing you into the narrative of the lyrics. It's a must-listen for anyone exploring her discography. Beyond that one massive hit, her collaboration with saxophonist Houston Person was truly something special, spanning almost three decades! Their musical partnership was legendary, a testament to their incredible chemistry. They weren't just playing together; they were conversing through their instruments and voices. If you're looking to dive deeper, you absolutely have to check out albums like 'Etta Jones Sings Sammy Cahn: All The Way.' This album, which I recently stumbled upon, is a gem. Seeing her smiling face on the cover, often alongside Houston Person, really illustrates the joy and camaraderie they shared in their music. It’s filled with classic tunes interpreted with her unique flair, and it’s a brilliant showcase of her talent for interpreting the Great American Songbook. Their live performances were apparently electric, a seamless blend of swing, blues, and pure jazz improvisation. So, how do you easily tell them apart? Think of Etta James for gritty R&B and blues that can tear your heart out or make you dance. Think of Etta Jones for sophisticated, swinging jazz and ballads that soothe your soul and tell a story. Both are queens, but they reign in different, equally magnificent kingdoms. Understanding this distinction really helps appreciate the unique contributions of each 'Etta' to music history. It’s been a fun journey uncovering the depth of Etta Jones's legacy, and I hope you get to enjoy it too!
