Marlena Shaw, a Soulful Jazz Singer, Dies at 81
Marlena Shaw, a Soulful Jazz Singer, Dies at 81
A New York-born jazz singer known for “California Soul" is taken from us too soon.
Marlena Shaw, a luminary in the world of jazz and soul music, passed away at the age of 81, according to her family on FaceBook. Her death marked the end of an era for a genre she helped shape and define. Shaw, with her distinctive voice and trailblazing spirit, left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her journey, from the small jazz clubs to the heights of music stardom, was a story of talent, determination, and passion for her craft. Her passing was mourned by fans and peers alike, who recognized her as a significant influence in jazz and soul music.
Marlina Burgess (known to the world as Marlena Shaw) was born in New Rochelle, New York, and grew up in a music-rich environment. Her uncle, Jimmy Burgess, was a jazz trumpet player, and it was he who introduced Shaw to the world of jazz. From a very young age, Shaw demonstrated a keen interest in music, showing a particular inclination towards singing. This early exposure to jazz and the constant presence of music in her home played a crucial role in shaping her musical sensibilities.
In her childhood, Shaw was deeply influenced by the music she heard around her. She regularly attended her uncle’s performances, which were a gateway to the jazz scene of that era. These experiences were not just entertaining but educational, as Shaw absorbed the nuances of jazz performance and improvisation. Her family recognized her talent early on and encouraged her pursuit of music, providing her with the support she needed to develop her skills.
As a teenager, Shaw’s passion for music led her to perform in local clubs and talent shows. Her voice, distinct and expressive, quickly garnered attention. This period was crucial for her, as it allowed her to experiment with her style and understand the dynamics of live performance. She honed her skills by singing various genres, though jazz remained her primary focus. These early performances were instrumental in building her confidence as a performer and helped her understand the intricacies of connecting with an audience.
Before starting her professional career, Shaw faced the challenges of balancing her aspirations with the realities of life. In order to pursue her passion for music, she made the difficult decision to leave school. Despite this, she remained committed to her dream, working various jobs to support herself while continuing to perform at local venues. This period of struggle and perseverance laid the foundation for her later success, as she developed not only as a musician but also as a person with a deep understanding of the highs and lows of a life in music.
Marlena Shaw’s journey into the world of professional jazz singing began in the early 1960s. With a steadfast commitment to her craft, she started making singing appearances in various jazz clubs. Juggling her daytime responsibilities with her passion for music, Shaw used every available opportunity to perform. Her evenings were often spent on stage, where she captivated audiences with her unique voice and interpretation of jazz standards.
One of the most significant milestones in Shaw’s early career occurred in 1963 when she had the opportunity to work with the renowned jazz trumpeter Howard McGhee. This collaboration was a pivotal moment for Shaw, as it not only provided her with valuable experience but also exposed her to a wider audience. Working with McGhee, a respected figure in the jazz world, lent a certain credibility to Shaw’s burgeoning career and opened doors to new opportunities. It was during this period that her style began to mature, and she started to find her voice in the jazz genre.
From 1963 to 1966, Shaw continued to perform in small clubs, gradually building a name for herself in the jazz community. Her performances were characterized by a blend of technical skill and emotional depth, which resonated deeply with her audiences. Shaw’s ability to connect with listeners, combined with her growing repertoire and confidence on stage, helped her establish a loyal following. Her performances during this period were not just about showcasing her talent but were also a learning experience, allowing her to refine her artistry further.
The year 1966 marked a turning point in Marlena Shaw’s career, setting her on a trajectory to wider recognition and success. Her persistent efforts and dedication to jazz culminated in a significant breakthrough. It was in this year that she caught the attention of larger audiences and key figures in the music industry. This recognition was not only a validation of her talent but also a testament to her hard work and perseverance. It paved the way for the next phase of her career, where she would go on to achieve greater heights and leave an imprint in jazz music.
A huge moment in Marlena Shaw’s career came during one of her performances, which led to a fortuitous meeting with representatives from Chess Records. This encounter marked the beginning of a significant new chapter in her musical journey. Chess Records, renowned for its roster of legendary blues and soul artists, saw potential in Shaw’s unique style and vocal prowess. Recognizing the opportunity to broaden her reach and develop her career, Shaw soon signed with the label, joining their subsidiary, Cadet Records.
At Cadet Records, Shaw released her first two albums. These recordings showcased her versatility and ability to imbue traditional jazz with a contemporary flavor. One track in particular from her 1969 The Spice of Life album, “California Soul,” originally penned by Ashford & Simpson and first released by The 5th Dimension, became a standout hit. Far from Chicago’s Cadet Records, where Richard Evans and Charles Stepney were crafting the song’s arrangement, Shaw, then a New York resident, managed her artistic contributions remotely. Juggling motherhood and her career, she recalled, “We’d actually work out the arrangements and stuff over the telephone.” Despite the logistical challenges, her efforts transcended geographical barriers.
The song itself, chosen for Shaw’s second album on Cadet, a branch of the influential blues and jazz label Chess Records, echoed a distinct Californian essence. Historian Kevin Starr highlighted California’s unique identity, intertwined with the concept of a dream, an essence Shaw captured despite her physical distance. The track, orchestrated by Evans and Stepney, who later influenced Earth, Wind & Fire’s iconic style, blended symphonic elements reminiscent of rock giants like The Beach Boys and The Beatles, with foundational handclaps and a compelling backbeat.
In “California Soul,” Shaw’s portrayal transcends that of a mere spectator at the beach. Her voice, infused with the power of Mother Earth or the West African deity Nana Buluku, paints a vivid picture of life’s natural rhythms – the wind, the sea, and human connection. This rich narrative is woven through Stepney’s string arrangements, echoing the tumultuous movement of the ocean waves.
Despite its artistic depth, “California Soul,” released as the B-side to “Looking Through The Eyes of Love,” didn’t make a notable impact on the charts, nor did it significantly boost sales for her album, The Spice of Life. Shaw’s journey with Cadet eventually concluded, leading her to her most successful single in 1977, “Yu Ma/Go Away Little Boy.” This track, featuring a spoken word intro, showcased Shaw’s dynamic range as she addresses a partner’s misplaced priorities with a mix of humor and stark reality.
This funk-soul tune resonated well beyond its initial release, later becoming a cherished track in the UK’s rare groove scene. Its infectious rhythm and Shaw’s powerful delivery made it a popular choice for various television commercials, including campaigns for Dockers, KFC, and Dodge Ram trucks. This song’s enduring popularity reflected Shaw’s ability to transcend genres and appeal to a broad audience.
Despite her initial success with Chess Records, Shaw found herself struggling to express her artistic vision fully. She felt constrained and unable to find her style within the label’s framework. This realization led her to make a bold move in 1972, transitioning to Blue Note Records, a label with a rich history in jazz. This shift marked a significant turn in Shaw’s career, aligning her with a label that better suited her artistic inclinations and provided her with the freedom to explore and develop her jazz roots more deeply.
Joining Blue Note Records was not only a personal triumph for Shaw but also a historic moment for the label, as she became the first female vocalist to sign with them. This recognition attests to her talent and the respect she has garnered in the music industry. During her time with Blue Note, Shaw toured with the legendary entertainer Sammy Davis, Jr.. This experience further enhanced her exposure and solidified her status as a prominent figure in the jazz world.
Shaw’s tenure at Blue Note Records was marked by the release of five albums and several singles. Her work during this period drew critical acclaim, with many reviewers drawing comparisons to jazz greats like Dinah Washington and Sarah Vaughan. These comparisons underlined the depth and range of Shaw’s vocal abilities and her skill in interpreting jazz standards and contemporary songs alike. Her time at Blue Note allowed Shaw to fully embrace her identity as a jazz artist, leaving a lasting impact on the genre and setting a high bar for future generations of jazz vocalists.
One record that stands out from her discography is 1974’s Who Is This Bitch, Anyway? This record marks a significant shift from her earlier soul-jazz works, embracing the evolving realms of feminism and funk. It navigates through the complexities of a rapidly transforming world, be it in music, politics, or sexual dynamics. The record kicks off with “You, Me and Ethel,” which wittily critiques the singles bar scene, setting the tone for an album that doesn’t shy away from tough topics. Shaw’s approach to themes like desire, showcased in “Feel Like Makin’ Love” and the pain of separation, as in “You Been Away Too Long,” is refreshingly frank and unfiltered.
Musically, the album refuses to stay in one lane, presenting a spectrum that ranges from soulful melodies to fiery funk beats. It’s this eclectic mix that underscores Shaw’s creative peak, making Who Is This Bitch, Anyway? not just her most successful release under Blue Note but also a highlight of her artistic career. This record doesn’t just entertain; it boldly confronts and examines the intricacies of modern relationships with a clarity and sharpness that was ahead of its time.
To honor Marlena Shaw’s legacy, it is essential to look back at the breadth of her contributions to music. Her unique ability to blend jazz, soul, and funk allowed her to create a sound that was unmistakably hers. Tracks like “California Soul” and her interpretations of jazz standards will continue to resonate with audiences, serving as a testament to her versatility and artistic depth. Her groundbreaking role as the first female vocalist signed to Blue Note Records will forever be remembered as a milestone in the music industry, paving the way for future generations of artists.
Shaw’s influence extends beyond her recordings. Her approach to music, characterized by an effortless fusion of genres and a deep emotional connection with her listeners, has inspired countless musicians. Aspiring artists look to her career as a blueprint for success, drawing lessons from her ability to navigate the challenges of the music industry while staying true to her artistic vision. Her legacy will continue to thrive in the works of those she has inspired, ensuring that her contributions to music will not be forgotten.
In commemorating Shaw’s life and career, it is fitting to celebrate her not only as a musician but as a cultural icon. Her music will continue to be a source of joy and inspiration for fans, old and new. Tributes, concerts, and retrospectives will likely be held in her honor, allowing fans to come together to celebrate her life and work. Through these events and the continued enjoyment of her music, Marlena Shaw’s spirit will live on, her voice continuing to echo through the halls of jazz history.
May her soul rest in peace.