Billie or Ella? Maria or Renata? Technique or feeling?

Feeling, every time for me, though I must confess that Billie Holiday gives me a headache every time.

An appalling voice, down there with Adele!

Maybe that’s the problem with feelings, they’re usually just so subjective.

Whereas with technique, there’s normally very little to disagree about. Hank Marvin, Jimmy Hendrix and Eric Clapton are all good technicians despite their obvious differences.

You’re often better off with performers that seem to have a good balance of both - the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Elvis Presley, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, the Smiths etc.

How 'bout virtuosity in the pursuit of emotional expression? Ah, that's the ticket! Then again, if I just had to choose one it'd be heart over brain any day.

Ella's best years are the Decca and early Verve. Particularly with minimal accompaniment.  

"vocal fireworks make for precious little emotion." Maybe you're referring to the later 60's and forward schmaltzy, overproduced "pop" Ella that many think of when she's mentioned?

Billie's work up  thru the 50's is where she peaked.

Billie vs. Ella? You can't go there....you just can't!

@chowkwan

I understand your point. When I was introduced to jazz music Ella was my go to female vocalist. With more exposure and experience my preferences have changed. I much prefer Sarah Vaughan and definitely Carmen McRae. More interesting, compelling and emotionally engaging. They pull me into the music in a way that Ella just does not for me. Another example, early on Oscar Peterson, later, Thelonious Monk. Same reason. Certainly, horses for courses.

Charles

@danager I don’t know about opera

This one's for you.

Thnx for the Riff Raff - great name for a group.