ColaJazz Foundation

Renowned American jazz and blues singer Etta Jones was born on either November 25, 1927, or 1928, in Aiken, South Carolina.

Born in Lancaster, South Carolina, on April 26, 1940, Maurice Williams made an indelible mark on music as a singer, pianist, and composer.

Mose Allison was an influential jazz and blues pianist, singer, and songwriter known for his witty lyrics and distinctive blend of jazz, blues, and Southern roots music.

Pianist Bob Alberti studied under the jazz legend Teddy Wilson and performed with various jazz groups across New York City before relocating to Los Angeles in 1960.

Gus Aiken was born Augustus Aiken on July 26, 1902, in Charleston, South Carolina. This talented trumpeter’s early musical education took place at the Jenkins Orphanage.

Johnny Acey was born September 3, 1925, in Gaffney, SC. He blended Southern rock, blues, and soul into a distinctive sound.

James "Jimmy" Witherspoon was a jump blues singer who began recording with Jay McShann's band. In 1949, "Ain't Nobody's Business" hit the charts and became his signature tune.

Joe Williams was a jazz singer who left an indelible mark on the music world.

Thelma Carpenter was a jazz singer and actress best known for her role as Miss One, the Good Witch of the North, in "The Wiz."