A fine vocalist equally gifted at singing upbeat, spirited blues, big band/swing numbers and jazzy pop standards, Anderson began her career in the early '40s, singing with the bands of Russell Jacquet, Eddie Heywood, Shifty Henry and Johnny Otis. Her version of "K.C. Loving" in 1947 with Henry was a mild hit. These orchestras modified swing arrangements, added shouting vocalists and divided their musical menus between their vocals, jump blues and fast-paced instrumentals. This formula was eventually labeled Rhythm & Blues or R&B. But Anderson moved away from that style in the '50s, and became a prominent jazz stylist. She worked with Lionel Hampton in 1952 and 1953, and also sang in New York City clubs. While in Hampton's band she met saxophonist Gigi Gryce. Anderson recorded with Quincy Jones in 1953, and Gryce in 1955, then toured Sweden in 1956 with Rolf Ericson's band that included Duke Jordan and Cecil Payne. While there she recorded "Hot Cargo" with Harry Arnold's orchestra, which was well received when it was issued in America on Mercury. Her 1958 album "Ernestine Anderson" with Pete Ruglolo was also praised, and Anderson won the New Star award from Downbeat's critics in 1959. She did more recording for Mercury, but encountered difficult times in the early '60s, moving to England in 1965. Anderson recorded "He Says He Loves Me" for the soundtrack of Sidney Poitier's film "The Lost Man" in 1969. The song attracted some attention. Ray Brown heard her singing at Turnwater Conservatory in 1975 during a weekend festival in Canada. He became her manager, and helped her get a contract with Concord Records. The 1976 album "Hello Like Before" generated great response throughout the jazz community. Anderson was suddenly an in-demand singer. There were recordings with Hank Jones, Ray Brown and Monty Alexander, and by the mid-'80s Anderson was cutting sessions with her own quartet. Her 1981 album "Never Make Your Move Too Soon" received a Grammy nomination, and she continued making strong sessions with Benny Carter in 1984 and the Capp-Pierce big band in 1987. She's more visible today than ever, and has become an established star. Her roots weren't fully in bebop, but she's firmly in the jazz camp, though she does include pop and blues material on her albums. ~ Ron Wynn
Ron Wynn, All-Music Guide