5 Old Soul Music Artists You Need to Know

It’s no secret that old souls tend to enjoy different types of music than those who are younger. If you’re an old soul looking for some new music to enjoy, check out these five artists!

Nina Simone

Nina Simone was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who incorporated a wide range of musical styles including classical, jazz, blues, folk, R&B, gospel, and pop. Simone began playing piano at the age of three and developed a love for music that led her to study classical piano at Julliard. She eventually turned down a scholarship to the prestigious school so she could pursue a career in music.

Simone’s soulful voice and emotionally charged music made her one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. She has been cited as an inspiration by artists such as Lauryn Hill, Mary J. Blige, and Alicia Keys. Some of her most iconic songs include “I Loves You Porgy,” “Feeling Good,” and “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood.”

Billie Holiday

One of the most influential jazz singers of all time, Billie Holiday had a profound impact on music and popular culture. Her vocal style was unique and immediately recognizable, influenced by her life experiences as a young African American woman in the early 20th century. She popularized songs like “Strange Fruit” and “God Bless the Child,” which have become standards.

Sarah Vaughan

Sarah Vaughan was an American jazz singer, described by Scott Yanow as having “one of the most wondrous voices of the 20th century”. She had a successful vocal career spanning over four decades. Vaughan’s sound was unique among jazz singers, with her ability to glide between notes effortlessly.

Ella Fitzgerald said of Vaughan, “She had perfect pitch, tune wise she was perfect, and her sense of time… no one could touch her.” Billie Holiday called her “the Divine One”, and Frank Sinatra referred to her as “Sassy”. Art Tatum said she had “the greatest natural vocal talent he had ever heard”.

Ella Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald was an American jazz and song vocalist who interpreted much of the Great American Songbook. With a vocal range spanning three octaves, she was noted for her perfect pitch, and was nicknamed “The First Lady of Song” and “Lady Ella”. She is one of the most respected jazz singers of all time.

Etta James

Etta James is one of the most celebrated and influential soul music artists of all time. She began her career in the 1950s, and her sound has been influential to both R&B and rock music. Her most famous songs include “At Last” and “I’d rather Go Blind.”