Celebrate Jazz Artists on Verve Records with Hoopla

Verve Records, one of the most important labels in jazz history, is 70 years old this year! We’re celebrating with a special Hoopla collection of legendary jazz artists on Verve.

Founded in 1956 by producer Norman Granz, Verve Records was created with a bold mission: to record the greatest jazz artists of the era with creative freedom and exceptional sound quality. Verve became synonymous with innovation, spotlighting jazz legends whose music crossed cultural and generational boundaries.

Jazz Legends Who Defined the Verve Sound

Verve Records is home to famous jazz musicians whose work still resonates today. Here are some of the legendary jazz artists on Verve, available on Hoopla:

Nina Simone, Feeling Good: Her Greatest Hits and Remixes

Nina Simone (1933-2003), the “High Priestess of Soul,” was a singer, pianist, songwriter, and civil rights activist. Her powerful contralto voice and protest songs made her a leading figure in the 1960s civil rights movement, blending jazz with gospel, blues, folk, pop, and classical influences. Essential track: “Mississippi Goddam.”

Duke Ellington, Duke Ellington & John Coltrane

Duke Ellington (1899-1974) was an American composer, pianist, and jazz bandleader whose career spanned more than 50 years. He led the Ellington Orchestra from 1924 until his death, creating the innovative “Ellington sound,” shaped by artists he encountered while working at the Cotton Club. Essential track: “In a Sentimental Mood.”

Louis Armstrong, Wonderful World: The Best of Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong (1901-1971) was a jazz trumpeter, cornet player, singer, and blues vocalist with a career that stretched over 50 years and different jazz eras. He’s seen as hugely influential, especially for improvisations that pushed jazz to spotlight the soloist. Essential track: “A Kiss to Build a Dream On.”

Etta James, Jazz

Etta James (1938-2021) was a singer and songwriter who possessed one of the most powerful voices in music. Over a six-decade career, she spanned rhythm and blues, soul, blues, jazz, gospel, and rock n’ roll. Essential track: “At Last.”

These famous jazz musicians are essential listening for anyone exploring the roots of jazz.

Explore Jazz Artists Anytime with Hoopla

With Hoopla, you can access jazz legends anytime, anywhere—instant streaming with no waiting lists. Hoopla has a rich digital collection curated for music lovers, including some of the best jazz you’ll ever hear from Verve Records.

Jazz for Black History Month—and Always!

Jazz is a powerful cultural force, especially during moments of reflection like Black History Month, when listeners seek music that tells stories of resilience, creativity, and freedom. Experience the enduring brilliance of legendary jazz artists on Verve Records—where history, artistry, and innovation meet. It’s waiting for you on Hoopla!