Laurel Masse

Laurel Masse is an American jazz and pop singer, best known as a member of the acclaimed vocal group The Manhattan Transfer. Born on April 7, 1944, in New York City, Masse's distinctive voice and versatile style contributed significantly to the group's success in the 1970s and 1980s. The Manhattan Transfer is recognized for blending jazz, pop, R&B, and doo-wop, and they were instrumental in revitalizing vocal harmony groups during this period. Masse's notable works with the group include the Grammy-winning albums *Brazil* (1975) and *Pastiche* (1978), which showcased her ability to navigate various musical styles. Her contributions to songs like "Operator" and "Chanson d'Amour" helped cement The Manhattan Transfer’s reputation as innovative artists in vocal jazz. Masse left the group in 1982 to pursue a solo career, releasing albums such as *Laurel Masse* (1983) and *Dancing in the Dark* (1985). Her impact on music lies in her role in popularizing vocal jazz and harmony singing, influencing a generation of artists and contributing to the genre's evolution. Masse's legacy continues through her recordings and performances, celebrating the art of vocal ensemble music.