Early Life and Education of Sheila Jordan: A Complete Timeline

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Sheila Jordan

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Sheila Jordan. A timeline of key moments.

Sheila Jordan (1928-2024) was a highly regarded American jazz singer and songwriter known for her unique bebop and scat singing style, often accompanied solely by an upright bass. She collaborated with numerous critically acclaimed artists and released her own albums. Praised for her improvisational skills and musicality, Jordan earned the moniker "the lady with the million dollar ears" from Charlie Parker. Her innovative approach and distinctive voice cemented her place as a significant figure in jazz history.

August 11, 1928: Sheila Jordan Born in Detroit

On August 11, 1928, Sheila Jordan was born in Detroit, Michigan. Her mother, only 17 at the time, struggled with raising her, leading to a difficult childhood where she was sent to live with her grandparents in Summerhill, Pennsylvania.

November 18, 1928: Sheila Jordan's Birth

On November 18, 1928, Sheila Jeannette Jordan (née Dawson) was born. She would later become an influential American jazz singer and songwriter, known for her bebop and scat jazz singing style.

1951: Move to New York City

In 1951, Sheila Jordan moved to New York City where she studied harmony and music theory with Lennie Tristano and Charles Mingus, focusing on the music of Charlie Parker.

1952: Marriage to Duke Jordan

In 1952, Sheila Jordan married Duke Jordan, a pianist in Charlie Parker's band. The marriage, though challenging due to Duke's addiction, resulted in their daughter Tracy.

1962: Divorce from Duke Jordan

In 1962, Sheila Jordan divorced Duke Jordan. The marriage had produced a daughter, Tracy.

1974: Artist in Residence at City College of New York

In 1974, Sheila Jordan became Artist in Residence at City College of New York, marking a significant step in her academic career.

1978: Teaching at City College of New York

In 1978, Sheila Jordan began teaching at City College of New York, where she remained until 2005, shaping the next generation of musicians.

1987: End of Work at Advertising Agency

Until 1987, Sheila Jordan worked in an advertising agency, balancing her musical career with work in another field.

2005: End of Teaching Career at City College of New York

In 2005, Sheila Jordan concluded her long-term teaching position at City College of New York, after dedicating many years to musical education.

2014: Publication of Jazz Child: A Portrait of Sheila Jordan

In 2014, Ellen Johnson published Sheila Jordan's biography, titled "Jazz Child: A Portrait of Sheila Jordan", documenting her life and career.

Jazz Child: A Portrait of Sheila Jordan (Studies in Jazz)
Jazz Child: A Portrait of Sheila Jordan (Studies in Jazz)

August 11, 2025: Sheila Jordan's Death

On August 11, 2025, Sheila Jordan passed away. During her life, she was a renowned American jazz singer and songwriter.