History of Sheila Jordan in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: August 12, 2025

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.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

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.

1955: Friendship with Charlie Parker

In 1955, Sheila Jordan became friends with Charlie Parker before his death, considering him one of her teachers and musical influences.

1962: Collaboration with George Russell and Recording of "You Are My Sunshine"

In 1962, Sheila Jordan collaborated with George Russell, recording the song "You Are My Sunshine" for his album The Outer View. She also released her album Portrait of Sheila on Blue Note later that year.

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1962: Divorce from Duke Jordan

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

1967: Collaboration with Don Heckman

From 1967 to 1968, Sheila Jordan collaborated with Don Heckman, contributing to her musical career.

1972: Collaboration with Lee Konitz

In 1972, Sheila Jordan collaborated with Lee Konitz, expanding her musical network and performance experiences.

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.

July 12, 1975: Recording of Confirmation

On July 12, 1975, Sheila Jordan recorded the album Confirmation, adding to her discography of jazz recordings.

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.

1979: Formation of Quartet

In 1979, Sheila Jordan formed a quartet with Steve Kuhn, Harvie S, and Bob Moses, marking a new phase in her performance career.

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.

1989: Release of Lost and Found

In 1989, Sheila Jordan released the album Lost and Found, adding to her collection of recorded works.

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.

2006: MAC Lifetime Achievement Award

In 2006, Sheila Jordan received the Manhattan Association of Cabarets & Clubs (MAC) Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating her 28 years as an adjunct professor of music.