Music fans are mourning the death of legendary jazz singer Sheila Jordan, who passed away at the age of 96. She had been an instrumental figure in the jazz scene, inspiring generations of vocalists. Fans loved Jordan’s fearless approach to improvisation and her ability to transform familiar standards into deeply personal statements.
What happened to Sheila Jordan?
The “Hum Drum Blues” singer took her last breath on Monday, August 11, 2025, at her New York City apartment.
Sheila Jordan’s bassist, Harvie S., confirmed the news of her passing, as per NPR. Additionally, her daughter Tracey Jordan also shared the heartbreaking news on social media.
In an Instagram post, Tracey wrote, “Her friend Joan Belgrave was playing her a bebop tune called Bill for Bennie, by her late husband Marcus Belgrave…my mom fell asleep listening to the music she loved and helped define.”
Previously, Tracey had also set up a GoFundMe page for the singer, who needed hospice care. Before her death, Sheila Jordan delivered her last live performance on Valentine’s Day, the same day she released her latest album, Portrait Now.
Born in Detroit, Jordan was famous for making a pioneering shift in the bebop and scat jazz singing style with upright bass as the only accompaniment. Over her decade-spanning career, she released over 19 critically acclaimed albums and received several accolades. Jordan received the National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master Award in 2012. Along with her singing career, she also taught jazz vocal workshops at City College of New York for decades.
Ever since the news of Jordan’s demise surfaced, followers of the beloved singer are paying tribute to the jazz pioneer. Award-winning Canadian jazz artist Laila Biali also posted a touching tribute on X (formerly Twitter). She wrote, “It’s been touching to see so many posts about the one and only Sheila Jordan. I never got to meet Sheila myself, but she was greatly loved by all who knew her.”
Meanwhile, singer Lisa Bernstein posted, “Rest in peace, great jazz singer and mentor Sheila Jordan. I’m hearing in my mind your timeless version of “The Water Is Wide.” I know you have gotten over. I will listen for you.”
Sheila Jordan’s insistence on using limited instruments helped to redefine intimacy in jazz performance. Despite facing numerous personal and professional obstacles throughout her career, her unwavering dedication to her craft made her a symbol of artistic perseverance in the jazz community.
