Marlena Shaw was a charismatic and versatile jazz vocalist known for her blend of pop standards and straight-ahead jazz tunes. With an extroverted stage presence, she captivated audiences and felt most comfortable performing live. Shaw's early exposure to jazz legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis influenced her singing style, leading her to a successful career that included performing with the Count Basie band and recording multiple albums for Blue Note Records. Her music, described as a mix of jazz, soul, pop, and R&B, continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

After a successful stint with the Basie Orchestra, Marlena Shaw became the first female vocalist signed to Blue Note Records. Her recordings drew critical acclaim, with comparisons to legendary vocalists such as Dinah Washington and Sarah Vaughan. Shaw's captivating performances showcased a diverse range of styles, from traditional jazz to blues and R&B. Even posthumously, her music remains relevant, as evidenced by the reissuing of her catalog titles and remixes of her tracks that gained popularity in clubs worldwide. Shaw's legacy as a pioneering jazz vocalist endures, with her impact on the music scene still felt today.