Influential women in jazz

Launching her stellar career in 1935 in the Swing era, Ella Fitzgerald was one of the most influential jazz singers of the 20th century. Raised in a humble home in Virginia, she conquered the world with her impressive voice. She continued to perform until the age of 74, dying only a few years later in 1996 from diabetes complications.

Rhythm and phrasing, the color and shade of her voice and a knack for infusing even the simplest melody with poignant depth - Billie Holiday was a jazz legend. Like many female jazz singers of her era, she did not have an easy life. She was raped at the age of 11, and in court more than once for drug possession. Ella Fitzgerald was an avowed fan of this grande dame of jazz.

Alongside Fitzgerald and Holiday, Sarah Vaughan was one of the most influential female jazz singers in history. She subbed for Fitzgerald at a nightclub back in 1943, which marked the beginning of her legendary career. Vaughan always disagreed with the description of herself as a jazz singer. Whether pop music or jazz - she excelled at both.

Songs including "I Put A Spell On You" and hits from the musical "Hair" made Nina Simone popular outside of jazz circles. The singer and pianist, who wrote several songs for the US civil rights movement in the 1960s, is today regarded as a leading figure on the soul music scene.

Born in 1929 in the Manchurian region of China, Toshiko Akiyoshi emigrated to Japan with her parents when she was a child. The pianist, composer and Big Band leader mixes bebop with Japanese and classical music elements. Firmly established in the world of modern jazz, the 87-year-old performs concerts across the globe to this day.

Jazz opera or an adaptation of "La Paloma" - in the 1960s, Carla Bley was known as an innovative, controversial composer. Born in Oakland, California in 1936, the 81-year-old is known for her shrill, orchestral interpretation of jazz, and is currently on tour in Europe.

A Swiss jazz pioneer and feminist, Irene Schweizer has always defied musical norms. She became known as the founder of free jazz in Europe. Schweizer, who turns 76 in June, started her career as a drummer in a rock band - but has found international success as a jazz pianist.

She embodies contemporary female jazz: Terri Lyne Carrington, drummer, composer and head of the Sonic Portraits Entertainment label, which she co-founded. The US musician is famous for her groove. Committed to helping women find their voice in music and beyond, she is also known for her strong opinions.