Myra Taylor (singer)

Myra Taylor (October 18, 1917 – September 9, 2011) was an American jazz and blues singer. She was noted for her sophisticated phrasing and stage presence, and had a career spanning over seven decades.

Taylor was born in Kansas City, Kansas, and began her career singing in local nightclubs and dance halls during the 1930s. She gained wider recognition in the 1940s when she joined Harlan Leonard and his Rockets, a popular swing band. She recorded several singles with Leonard, including "Dig Me a Grave" and "Number Blues".

After leaving Harlan Leonard, Taylor continued to perform as a solo artist, touring extensively throughout the United States and internationally. She was known for her interpretations of classic jazz and blues standards, as well as her own original compositions. In the later years of her career, she gained renewed interest performing frequently in New York City clubs.

Taylor's contributions to jazz and blues music have been recognized with several awards and accolades. She is considered to be an important figure in the history of Kansas City jazz.