Dive into the captivating world of Billie Holiday, a legendary jazz vocalist whose poignant voice and emotive performances left an indelible mark on music history. Born Eleanora Harris in Philadelphia in 1915, Holiday's troubled upbringing and resilience shaped her distinctive and deeply personal singing style. Her ability to convey raw emotions through her interpretations of classic songs and ballads earned her the moniker "Lady Day." Holiday's artistry transcended the realm of jazz, influencing generations of musicians and captivating audiences worldwide.
Immerse yourself in the timeless appeal of Holiday's most celebrated songs, a testament to her enduring legacy. From the haunting strains of "Strange Fruit" a powerful anthem against racial injustice, to the heart-wrenching ballad "Solitude" her voice soared with an unmatched intensity and vulnerability. The iconic "Blue Moon" showcased her ability to transform a familiar melody into a poignant and unforgettable rendition. Each song on this curated list represents a facet of Holiday's multifaceted talent, inviting listeners on a musical journey that spans the depths of human emotion. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or discovering her music for the first time, this collection offers a glimpse into the artistry of one of the most influential and revered singers of all time.
| Song | Album | Release | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Strange Fruit | Billie Holiday | 2018 | 8M+ |
| 2. Solitude | Solitude | 2022 | 3M+ |
| 3. Blue Moon | Solitude | 2022 | 2M+ |
| 4. Autumn In New York | Recital | 2013 | 1M+ |
| 5. Stormy Weather | An Evening With Billie Holiday | 2011 | 726K+ |
| 6. I'll Be Seeing You | Billie Holiday | 2022 | 650K+ |
| 7. I'm a Fool to Want You | Lady In Satin | 2016 | 483K+ |
1. Strange Fruit
Blood on the leaves and blood at the root ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release22-02-2018 |
| Time03:19 | View8M+ |
| Likes 161K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumBillie HolidayListen on Spotify | |
"Strange Fruit" performed by Billie Holiday, is a timeless masterpiece that stands as a poignant testament to the horrors of racial violence. The song's haunting melody and chilling lyrics, penned by Abel Meeropol, paint a vivid picture of the lynchings that plagued the Southern United States. Holiday's emotive delivery gave the song an unmatched power, leaving audiences in stunned silence and sparking a flame for the civil rights movement. This powerful ballad earned numerous accolades, including induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the National Recording Registry.
Holiday's bravery in performing "Strange Fruit" despite threats and intimidation cemented her legacy as a fearless champion for the oppressed. The song's enduring impact is a testament to the power of music to raise awareness and ignite change. Holiday's unwavering spirit and the enduring resonance of "Strange Fruit" serve as a reminder of the ongoing fight for racial justice and equality.
2. Solitude (Solitude - 2022)
You haunt me ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release07-06-2022 |
| Time03:29 | View3M+ |
| Likes 103K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumSolitudeListen on Spotify | |
From the very first notes of "Solitude" by Billie Holiday, listeners are drawn into a world of profound emotions. This timeless jazz ballad serves as a poignant testament to the enduring power of Billie Holiday's voice and the raw, heart-wrenching lyrics that defined her signature style. As the haunting melody unfolds, the listener is transported into a realm of solitude and longing, where memories of past joys and sorrows intertwine.
"In 'Solitude'" Billie Holiday's voice echoes with a world-weariness that perfectly encapsulates the song's melancholy mood. The lyrics, penned by Eddie DeLange and Irving Mills, eloquently express the haunting feeling of being alone and haunted by memories of days gone by. Despair and longing permeate every line, as Holiday's voice conveys the agony of a soul yearning for connection and solace. The song's slow tempo and sparse instrumentation create a haunting atmosphere, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the emotions of the protagonist.
3. Blue Moon (Solitude - 2022)
Without a dream in my heart ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release07-06-2022 |
| Time03:26 | View2M+ |
| Likes 25K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumSolitudeListen on Spotify | |
"Blue Moon" a timeless jazz masterpiece performed by Billie Holiday, captivates listeners with its poignant lyrics and Holiday's unmatched vocal prowess. This classic ballad, originally penned by Rodgers and Hart, finds new life in Holiday's rendition, where she effortlessly conveys the raw emotions of loneliness and the yearning for love. Her interpretation, marked by its emotional depth and vulnerability, has resonated deeply with audiences for generations.
The song's opening line, "Blue moon, you saw me standing alone," establishes a sense of isolation and longing that sets the tone for the rest of the piece. Holiday's voice, imbued with a melancholic beauty, weaves a spellbinding tapestry of heartbreak and resilience. As she sings, "I heard somebody whisper, 'Please adore me,'" the listener is drawn into Holiday's world of unrequited love and the bittersweet longing for a connection that remains elusive.
4. Autumn In New York (2013)
That brings the promise of new love ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release12-03-2013 |
| Time03:52 | View1M+ |
| Likes 8K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumRecitalListen on Spotify | |
Autumn in New York, immortalized by Billie Holiday's iconic rendition, stands as a testament to her unparalleled artistry and the enduring power of jazz. Unlike other renditions that emphasize the song's vibrant autumn hues, Holiday's interpretation delves into the bittersweet memories and poignant emotions evoked by the season. Her emotive vocals, imbued with a profound understanding of longing and loss, paint a vivid tapestry of autumnal romance, capturing the essence of New York City's melancholic allure.
Holiday's rendition of "Autumn in New York" has become synonymous with the city itself, evoking images of shimmering skyscrapers and glittering crowds amidst the changing leaves. Yet, beneath the surface of its romantic allure, the song also speaks to the loneliness and longing that can pervade the metropolis. Holiday's voice, with its raw vulnerability and emotional depth, transforms the song into a timeless anthem of autumnal reflection, reminding us of the bittersweet beauty and transient nature of both the season and human connections.
5. Stormy Weather (Billie Holiday - 2011)
Stormy weather ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release02-01-2011 |
| Time03:48 | View726K+ |
| Likes 5K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumAn Evening With Billie HolidayListen on Spotify | |
If you haven't yet listened to 'Stormy Weather' by Billie Holiday, now is the perfect time to indulge in its heart-wrenching melody and poignant lyrics. Considered among Billie Holiday's most iconic recordings, this 1933 classic has been immortalized by its haunting portrayal of emotional turmoil.
Billie Holiday's rendition of 'Stormy Weather' is a testament to her unparalleled artistry. She strips away the grandeur often associated with this type of song, instead focusing on the raw emotions conveyed by the lyrics. Her voice, with its characteristic vulnerability and depth, effortlessly captures the disappointment and longing expressed in the song. The weather becomes a metaphor for the singer's inner turmoil, with lines like "stormy weather since my man and I ain't together, keeps raining all the time" resonating deeply with listeners. The original handwritten lyrics, along with a painting by Ted Koehler, were featured on the (US) Antiques Roadshow, highlighting the enduring legacy of this masterpiece.
6. I'll Be Seeing You (Billie Holiday)
In that small cafe, the park across the way, The c... ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release07-06-2022 |
| Time03:34 | View650K+ |
| Likes 9K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumBillie HolidayListen on Spotify | |
In the vast and ever-evolving tapestry of music, Billie Holiday's "I'll Be Seeing You" stands as a beacon of timeless brilliance. Originally written for a Broadway musical in 1938, the song found its true essence in Billie Holiday's captivating rendition, cementing its status as a jazz standard. While other versions by Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra gained popularity, it is Holiday's interpretation that continues to resonate deeply with listeners.
Billie Holiday's velvet-smooth vocals caress the lyrics, conveying a profound sense of longing and bittersweet memory. The jazz instrumentals weave an enchanting soundscape that evokes the poignant emotions of a heart filled with both love and sorrow. The song's melancholic beauty has become synonymous with the enduring presence of a beloved who is physically absent but forever cherished. Billie Holiday's profound interpretation has immortalized "I'll Be Seeing You" as a musical masterpiece, a testament to the enduring power of love and the solace it can provide in times of loss and remembrance.
7. I'm a Fool to Want You (Lady In Satin - 2016)
I'm a fool to want you ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release28-07-2016 |
| Time03:25 | View483K+ |
| Likes 8K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumLady In SatinListen on Spotify | |
Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? Billie Holiday's "I'm a Fool to Want You" is exactly that kind of song. A masterpiece from her final album, "Lady in Satin," this ballad is a heart-wrenching testament to the pain of unrequited love.
Holiday's deeply expressive delivery conveys the raw vulnerability of a soul yearning for a love that remains elusive. The haunting lyrics, penned by Frank Sinatra and Jack Wolf, perfectly capture the torment of a love that is both irresistible and unattainable. The song's emotional depth is further enhanced by the sparse, evocative arrangement, which allows Holiday's voice to soar with unadorned emotion. Each note is imbued with a sense of longing and a profound sense of heartbreak that listeners can't help but feel in their own souls.
8. Easy Living (Billie Holiday)
It's easy to live when you're in love ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release09-04-2021 |
| Time03:04 | View349K+ |
| Likes 6K+ | SuitableJazz Enthusiasts |
| AlbumAccentuate The Positive!Listen on Spotify | |
- Female Vocals
- Easy Listening
- Old School
- Classic Jazz
- Jazz Standards
- Billie Holiday
In the realm of Billie Holiday's timeless repertoire, "Easy Living" stands out as a masterpiece of poignant expression. Initially composed for the 1937 film of the same name, the song found its true voice when Holiday infused it with her signature emotive delivery. The elegant piano accompaniment weaves an intimate tapestry, enveloping the listener in a profound sense of yearning and nostalgia.
Holiday's interpretation of "Easy Living" transcends its original context, capturing the essence of longing and bittersweet memories. Her voice, imbued with a raw honesty, conveys the weight of unfulfilled dreams and missed opportunities. The lyrics, thoughtfully penned by Leo Robin, provide a poignant backdrop for Holiday's heartfelt performance, encapsulating the complexities of human emotion. With each note, she paints a vivid picture of longing and unrequited love, leaving an enduring impact on the listener's soul.
9. On The Sunny Side Of The Street (2014)
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release28-05-2014 |
| Time03:01 | View326K+ |
| Likes 0+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumBillie HolidayListen on Spotify | |
"On the Sunny Side of the Street" a captivating rendition by the legendary Billie Holiday, stands as a timeless classic in her illustrious repertoire. This iconic song, composed by Jimmy McHugh and Dorothy Fields, has resonated with listeners worldwide for its upbeat tempo and optimistic lyrics. Holiday's emotive delivery infuses the song with a profound sense of hope and resilience, inspiring countless individuals to embrace the brighter side of life.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of leaving behind worries and embracing joy. Holiday's voice soars effortlessly, carrying the weight of past struggles while exuding a newfound determination. The song's infectious melody and uplifting message have made it a beloved anthem, reminding us that even amidst adversity, there is always a sunny side to be found. Whether it's her impeccable vocal performance or the transformative power of the lyrics, "On the Sunny Side of the Street" continues to captivate audiences, solidifying its place among Billie Holiday's most enduring and cherished songs.
10. As Time Goes By
A kiss is still a kiss ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release18-06-2013 |
| Time03:15 | View326K+ |
| Likes 3K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumThe Complete Commodore RecordingsListen on Spotify | |
Released in 1942, Billie Holiday's rendition of "As Time Goes By" has become an iconic standard, immortalized in the film "Casablanca." Her haunting vocals and soulful delivery capture the bittersweet emotions of the song's lyrics, which reflect on the enduring power of love and longing. Holiday's interpretation earned her a Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 1976, further solidifying her status as one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time.
The song's timeless appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and yearning. Holiday's voice, filled with both vulnerability and strength, conveys the heartfelt emotions of a lover reminiscing about past joys and challenges. The lyrics, written by Herman Hupfeld, paint a vivid picture of love's enduring nature, despite the passing of time. Through Holiday's masterful performance, "As Time Goes By" transcends its original context and becomes a universal anthem for those who have experienced the transformative power of love.
11. You Go To My Head
And you linger like a haunting refrain ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release13-03-2013 |
| Time02:54 | View299K+ |
| Likes 4K+ | SuitableJazz Enthusiasts |
| AlbumSolitudeListen on Spotify | |
- Jazz Standard
- Classic Love Song
- Swing Era
- Billie Holiday
Billie Holiday's rendition of "You Go to My Head" is a timeless classic that epitomizes her artistry. Her voice, infused with a blend of longing and vulnerability, seamlessly conveys the complexities of love and desire. The song's lyrics, penned by J. Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie, are brought to life by Holiday's emotive delivery, capturing the intoxicating effects of infatuation with imagery of champagne bubbles and sparkling burgundy.
Critics and listeners alike have lauded Holiday's interpretation as a testament to her ability to infuse songs with her own personal experiences. Her rendition of "You Go to My Head" is a mesmerizing exploration of unrequited love, conveying the thrill and despair of a romance that cannot be. Holiday's voice lingers in the listener's mind, haunting them with its emotional intensity and reminding them of the enduring power of Billie Holiday's artistry.
12. Love Is Here To Stay (All Or Nothing At All - 2012)
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release15-04-2012 |
| Time03:48 | View253K+ |
| Likes 2K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumAll Or Nothing At AllListen on Spotify | |
"Love Is Here to Stay" is a timeless classic from Billie Holiday's illustrious career. Penned by the legendary songwriting duo Ira and George Gershwin, this enchanting ballad showcases Holiday's unparalleled vocal prowess and interpretive genius. Released in 1938, the song became an instant hit, captivating audiences with its poignant lyrics and the singer's deeply emotive delivery.
Holiday's rendition of "Love Is Here to Stay" is widely regarded as one of her finest performances. Her voice, simultaneously fragile and resilient, imbues the song with a profound sense of yearning and longing. Her impeccable phrasing and subtle nuances perfectly capture the bittersweet essence of unrequited love. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to Holiday's ability to transcend the boundaries of time and genre, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
13. Crazy He Calls Me (Billie Holiday)
And I'll move the mountains ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release07-06-2022 |
| Time03:06 | View244K+ |
| Likes 4K+ | SuitableJazz Lovers |
| AlbumLover ManListen on Spotify | |
- Heartbreak
- Jazz
- Love Affair
- Vocal
- Billie Holiday
Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? Billie Holiday's "Crazy He Calls Me" is precisely that kind of song. Recorded in 1949, this jazz standard transcends time with its evocative lyrics and Holiday's unparalleled vocal performance. Written by Carl Sigman and Bob Russell, the song encapsulates the complexities of romantic devotion, its sweet surrender and bittersweet pain conveyed through Holiday's raw and emotive delivery.
Beyond its musical brilliance, "Crazy He Calls Me" holds a special place in the hearts of many. For those who discovered Billie Holiday through the Fallout video game series, this song serves as a gateway into the captivating world of jazz. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate with listeners, evoking a profound sense of nostalgia and a longing for a time they may have never experienced. Like a warm embrace from a distant memory, "Crazy He Calls Me" transports us to a bygone era, where Billie Holiday's voice becomes a beacon of both joy and sorrow, a testament to the enduring power of music.
14. All of Me (2021)
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release24-03-2021 |
| Time03:52 | View171K+ |
| Likes 3K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumSolitudeListen on Spotify | |
From the very first notes of "All of Me" by Billie Holiday, I was drawn in by its haunting melody and Billie's emotive vocals. Her voice is raw and vulnerable, perfectly capturing the song's message of unrequited love and longing. The arrangement is sparse, with only a piano and bass accompanying Billie's voice, which allows her performance to take center stage.
"All of Me" is considered one of Billie Holiday's signature songs and is widely regarded as a masterpiece of jazz. It has been covered by countless artists over the years, but Billie's original recording remains the definitive version. The song's simple yet powerful lyrics and Billie's unforgettable performance make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
15. Lover Man (Billie Holiday - 2022)
I long to try something I've never had ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release07-06-2022 |
| Time03:16 | View124K+ |
| Likes 2K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumLover ManListen on Spotify | |
With its haunting melody and Billie Holiday's evocative vocals, "Lover Man (Oh, Where Can You Be?)" stands as a timeless masterpiece in the realm of jazz. Composed in 1941 and meticulously crafted to resonate with her personal experiences, the song explores themes of longing, loneliness, and the elusive search for love. Through Holiday's poignant delivery, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman yearning for a connection that eludes her grasp. The song's emotional depth and universal appeal have secured its place as one of Billie Holiday's most beloved and enduring performances.
Billie Holiday's rendition of "Lover Man" not only captured the hearts of audiences but also garnered critical acclaim. In 1989, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, a prestigious recognition that acknowledges its historical and artistic significance. This accolade serves as a testament to Holiday's exceptional talent and the enduring power of her music. The song's popularity transcends generations, continuing to inspire and move listeners with its timeless message and Holiday's inimitable artistry.
16. Moonglow (2022)
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release07-06-2022 |
| Time02:57 | View85K+ |
| Likes 1K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumSolitudeListen on Spotify | |
"Moonglow" stands as a testament to Billie Holiday's unparalleled artistry and enduring legacy as one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time. Released as a single in 1941, the song became an instant hit, reaching the top of the Billboard charts and establishing itself as a timeless classic. Its enduring popularity stems from the combination of Holiday's emotive interpretation and the song's evocative lyrics, which paint a vivid picture of longing and unrequited love.
The song's success has cemented its place among the best of Billie Holiday's vast repertoire. Her haunting vocals, imbued with both vulnerability and strength, bring depth and nuance to the lyrics, capturing the essence of the human experience. The arrangement, a collaboration with Lester Young on tenor saxophone and Count Basie on piano, provides a rich and atmospheric backdrop that perfectly complements Holiday's performance. "Moonglow" encapsulates Holiday's ability to transform a popular song into a deeply personal expression, a quality that has made her one of the most revered and influential jazz singers of all time.
17. East Of The Sun (Solitude)
We'll build a dream house of love, dear ”
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release06-04-2012 |
| Time03:00 | View29K+ |
| Likes 314+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumSolitudeListen on Spotify | |
Among the timeless melodies of Billie Holiday's repertoire, 'East of the Sun' stands as a poignant masterpiece. Released in 1952, this rendition captures Holiday's profound emotional depth, offering a deeply personal interpretation that sets it apart from other renditions of the classic. Her whiskey-soaked vocals evoke a sense of longing and vulnerability, transporting listeners to the dimly lit streets of her experiences, where dreams once soared but reality had taken a different turn.
Billie Holiday's unique delivery transforms the song into a deeply intimate and relatable experience. Her ability to tap into the rawness of human emotion is showcased in every note, as she captures the bittersweet sentiments of love and loss. The song's melancholic melody intertwines with Holiday's heartfelt performance, creating an atmosphere that resonates with longing and acceptance, leaving an enduring impact on the hearts of listeners.
18. I'll Look Around
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release07-06-2022 |
| Time03:17 | View14K+ |
| Likes 320+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumThe Lady SingsListen on Spotify | |
Billie Holiday's "I'll Look Around" is a poignant and haunting ballad that showcases her unparalleled vocal artistry. Released in 1952, the song became an instant classic, capturing the essence of heartbreak and longing with its melancholic melody and deeply personal lyrics. Holiday's emotive delivery and raw vulnerability make this performance one of her most memorable and cherished recordings.
The song's lyrics, written by Theo Macero and Buddy DeSylva, explore the pain of unrequited love and the search for solace. Holiday's voice imbues the words with an aching sincerity, as she sings of a love that has faded and left her filled with emptiness. The arrangement, featuring a sparse piano accompaniment and subtle string orchestration, perfectly complements Holiday's vocal performance, allowing her voice to take center stage and convey the full weight of her emotions.
19. All Of You (Billie Holiday)
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release16-04-2020 |
| Time02:33 | View6K+ |
| Likes 72+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumBillie Holiday With Ray Ellis And His OrchestraListen on Spotify | |
"All of You" is a jazz standard written by Cole Porter in 1954. The song has been recorded by numerous artists, but it is most closely associated with Billie Holiday, who recorded the definitive version in 1958. Holiday's recording of "All of You" is a masterclass in vocal jazz. Her voice is warm and expressive, and she perfectly captures the song's bittersweet mood. The song's lyrics are about a woman who is hopelessly in love with a man. Despite the fact that the man does not love her back, she cannot help but give him "all of [her]" love. Holiday's performance of the song is so moving that it is impossible not to feel the woman's pain and longing.
"All of You" is one of Billie Holiday's most popular and enduring songs. It has been praised by critics and fans alike for its beauty and emotional power. The song is a testament to Holiday's genius as a vocalist and interpreter of jazz standards. It is a song that will continue to be loved and cherished for generations to come.
20. April In Paris (All Or Nothing At All - 2020)
Song information
| ArtistBillie Holiday | Release25-08-2020 |
| Time03:05 | View4K+ |
| Likes 168+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumAll Or Nothing At AllListen on Spotify | |
Billie Holiday's rendition of "April in Paris" stands as a poignant and timeless masterpiece within her illustrious discography. This enchanting ballad, penned by Vernon Duke with lyrics by Yip Harburg, paints a vivid picture of springtime in the City of Lights. Holiday's emotive delivery captures the song's essence, evoking a sense of longing and nostalgia for a bygone era. Her phrasing and intonation are impeccable, imbuing the lyrics with a depth that resonates with listeners on a profound level.
"April in Paris" became a signature song for Holiday, showcasing her unparalleled vocal abilities and interpretive prowess. Its inclusion on her 1957 album "Lady in Satin" further cemented its status as a classic. The album, produced by Ray Ellis, featured Holiday's stripped-down vocals backed by a lush orchestral arrangement. This minimalist approach allowed her voice to shine through, creating an intimate and emotionally charged listening experience. Over the years, "April in Paris" has been covered by countless artists, but Holiday's version remains the definitive interpretation, a testament to her enduring legacy as one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time.