Marlena Shaw

Marlena Shaw, born Marlina Burgess on September 22, 1939, in New Rochelle, New York, developed an early passion for jazz through her uncle, Jimmy Burgess, a trumpet player. At the age of ten, she performed at Harlem’s Apollo Theater, receiving an enthusiastic response. Although she attended State Teachers’ College in Potsdam, NY, she later dropped out to pursue her musical career. By the mid-1960s, Shaw was regularly performing in the Catskills, Playboy clubs, and other venues in the New York area. Her career gained significant traction in 1966 when she signed with Chess Records’ subsidiary, Cadet Records, releasing her first two albums and the successful single “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy.”

In 1972, Shaw achieved a significant career milestone, becoming the first female vocalist to be signed by Blue Note Records. During her time with Blue Note, she recorded five albums and toured with Sammy Davis Jr. Her live performances were known for their engaging blend of jazz, soul, pop, and R&B. Shaw later signed with Columbia Records in 1977, releasing “Sweet Beginnings,” which included the popular track “Yu Ma / Go Away Little Boy.” She also recorded “Don’t Ask to Stay Until Tomorrow” for the 1977 film “Looking for Mr. Goodbar” soundtrack, and a disco version of “Touch Me in the Morning.” Her 1969 album track “California Soul” from “The Spice of Life” became a staple in the UK rare groove scene and has been sampled in hip-hop music and featured in various television commercials.

Shaw’s career continued into the 21st century, with performances at the North Sea Jazz Festival in 1999, 2001, and 2007. She released further albums with Verve, Concord Jazz, and 441 Records, showcasing her enduring versatility across genres. Throughout her career, Shaw consistently demonstrated her ability to captivate audiences with her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence, cementing her legacy as a significant figure in jazz and soul music. She passed away on January 19, 2024, at the age of 84.