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Marlena Shaw was an American jazz, blues and soul singer. Shaw began her singing career in the 1960s and continued to perform until her death.
Marlena Shaw, a captivating vocalist who traversed the realms of jazz, blues, and soul, left an indelible mark on the music scene.
Born in 1942, her musical journey began at the tender age of ten, captivating audiences at Harlem’s Apollo Theater alongside her trumpeter uncle, Jimmy Burgess. Though her mother initially disapproved of a life on the road, Shaw’s passion for music couldn’t be contained.
The 1960s saw her blossom, landing a contract with Chess Records and scoring her first hit, “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy,” a soulful rendition of Cannonball Adderley’s instrumental piece. Shaw’s versatility shone through her diverse discography,encompassing playful tunes like “California Soul” and the hauntingly beautiful “Woman of the Ghetto.”
Beyond her own music, Shaw’s legacy lives on in the countless hip-hop tracks that have sampled her work, a testament to her enduring influence.
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