Biography
Jacqui Naylor is a celebrated American jazz vocalist and songwriter, born and raised in Saratoga, California. Her early exposure to music came from her parents' collection of antique automated instruments and vintage records, which sparked her interest in jazz standards. Although she participated in musicals and talent shows during high school, Naylor initially pursued a marketing degree at San Francisco State University. Her passion for music was reignited after hearing Sarah Vaughan's interpretation of Gershwin in a college class, leading her to study voice with renowned San Francisco jazz coach Faith Winthrop from 1991 to 1995. She further honed her skills in New York with Shirley Calloway before returning to San Francisco in 1997 to focus on her singing career full-time.[1][2][6]
Naylor quickly gained recognition for her distinctive vocal style, which blends the inflections of Billie Holiday and June Christy with gospel influences and contemporary sensibilities. Her repertoire spans jazz standards, original compositions, and inventive arrangements that often merge jazz and rock elements—a technique she calls 'acoustic smashing.' This approach involves singing a jazz standard over the groove of a rock tune, or vice versa, creating fresh interpretations that appeal to diverse audiences.[2][3][4] Naylor has released over a dozen albums, performed internationally at venues such as Yoshi's and the Blue Note, and her music has been featured in films, television, and advertising. She is widely regarded for her versatility, subtlety, and ability to bridge genres, earning acclaim from both jazz aficionados and new listeners alike.[3][7]
Fun Facts
- Jacqui Naylor is known for 'acoustic smashing,' a technique where she sings a jazz standard over the groove of a rock song, or vice versa, such as 'Summertime' over the Allman Brothers' 'Whipping Post.'
- Her album 'Dead Divas Society' pays tribute to the legendary female vocalists who have influenced her career.
- Naylor initially worked as a marketing director for a clothing designer before fully committing to music.
- She has performed internationally, including a three-month tour in Japan, and her arrangements often blend genres in unexpected ways.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Faith Winthrop - Primary vocal coach in San Francisco who shaped Naylor's jazz technique and artistry. (Private vocal study (no specific albums, foundational training)) [1991–1995]
- Shirley Calloway - Vocal coach in New York, further refining Naylor's style during her year in NYC. (Private vocal study (no specific albums, advanced training)) [1996]
Key Collaborators
- Art Khu - Long-time pianist, arranger, co-writer, and spouse; central to Naylor's recordings and live performances. (Co-writer and performer on albums including 'Treasures of the Heart') [1997–present]
- Richie Goods - Bassist and frequent band member, contributing to live and studio projects. (Performer on 'Treasures of the Heart' and other albums) [2010s–present]
- Josh Jones - Drummer and regular collaborator in Naylor's band. (Performer on 'Treasures of the Heart' and live shows) [2010s–present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| You Don't Know Jacq | 2008-11-04 | Album |
| Dead Divas Society | 2013-05-21 | Album |
| Live East West | 2005-03-15 | Album |
| The Color Five | 2006-08-29 | Album |
| Lucky Girl | 2011-09-27 | Album |
| Treasures Of The Heart | 2024-04-26 | Album |
| The Long Game | 2021-02-12 | Album |
| Q & A | 2017-03-24 | Album |
| Jacqui Naylor | 1999 | Album |
| Shelter | 2003-06-03 | Album |
| Smashed for the Holidays | 2007-10-09 | Album |
| Live At the Plush Room | 2001-04-01 | Album |
| Q&A | 2017-03-24 | Album |
| Dead Divas Society | 2013-05-21 | Album |
| Dead Divas Society | 2013-05-21 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Losing My Religion (You Don't Know Jacq)
- Ain't No Sunshine (You Don't Know Jacq)
- Back to Black (Dead Divas Society)
- How Deep Is Your Love (You Don't Know Jacq)
- My Funny Valentine (You Don't Know Jacq)
- Me & Mr. Jones - 1 (Live East West)
- Summertime (You Don't Know Jacq)
- Miss You (You Don't Know Jacq)
- Hot Legs (The Color Five)
- Surrey with the Fringe on Top (Lucky Girl)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Jacqui Naylor has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 3, 2025 | 01:54 | You're My Favorite Personfrom Lucky Girl | The Dean's Listw/ Dean Ellis |