Not technically or exclusively a jazz singer, Esther Phillips was nonetheless an amazing vocalist, versatile enough to be successful in the R&B, blues, jazz, and soul fields. Phillips became nationally known after joining the Johnny Otis band and cutting sassy, saucy R&B hits such as "Little Esther" in the '50s for Savoy and King/Federal. She sang the blues with vigor and authority and was a convincing ballad interpreter. She sparkled on uptempo arrangements, never being dominated or obscured by Otis's booming jump arrangements underneath. She made a wonderful comeback in 1962 with the cover of a country tune, "Release Me." Phillips enjoyed a second boom period in the '60s, doing everything from Beatles songs to a triumphant appearance at the 1966 Newport Jazz Festival. She made yet another return in the '70s with a sensational live album, and later in the disco era, she enjoyed a surprise hit with a disco version of "What a Difference a Day Makes." Through the '70s, Phillips made wonderful recordings in blues, jazz, soul, and disco modes. ~Ron Wynn
Source: AMG Biography