Ethel Ennis

Ethel Ennis was a Baltimore-born jazz vocalist with a rich, velvety voice that earned her the nickname "Baltimore’s First Lady of Jazz." Starting her career in the 1950s, she gained national attention with her self-titled debut album (1955) and became known for her sophisticated interpretations of jazz standards and pop tunes. Ennis charmed audiences with live performances, including a standout White House concert for President Nixon in 1973, and made regular TV appearances on shows like "The Tonight Show." Despite offers from major labels, she chose to stay rooted in her hometown, prioritizing her personal life and local community over mainstream fame.

Her discography—spanning albums like *Love You Madly*, *Have You Forgotten?*, and the lively *Ennis Anyone? Live at Montpelier*—showcases her warm, intimate style and knack for blending jazz with pop sensibilities. Married to journalist Earl Arnett, Ennis stepped back from the spotlight in the 1980s but continued to perform sporadically, leaving a legacy as an artist who valued authenticity over industry glamour. She passed away in 2019, remembered for her effortless grace and underrated contributions to jazz.

Genres

Vocal Jazz

Pop

R&b

Soul

Jazz

Contemporary Jazz

Smooth Jazz

Easy Listening

Bebop

Swing

Cool Jazz

Cabaret

Standards

Related Artists

Sarah Vaughan

Ella Fitzgerald

Nancy Wilson

Carmen McRae

Dinah Washington

Billie Holiday

Nina Simone

Diana Krall

Betty Carter

Dianne Reeves

Shirley Horn

Madeleine Peyroux

Latest Release

Love You Madly

Ethel Ennis

Single - Released February 27, 2019