Date of Birth: July 17, 1925
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Date of Death: June 12, 2014
Biography
James Victor Scott, known professionally as Jimmy Scott, was an American jazz vocalist renowned for his unique, high-pitched voice and emotional depth. Born on July 17, 1925, in Cleveland, Ohio, Scott became an influential figure in the music industry, particularly in the genres of jazz and R&B. His career spanned over six decades, producing a rich discography that included timeless classics such as “All the Way,” “If You Only Knew,” and “I’ll Be Seeing You.” Scott’s distinctive voice was a result of Kallmann syndrome, a rare genetic condition that prevented him from experiencing puberty, thus giving him an unusually high voice. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, his music resonated with fans and fellow musicians alike. He worked with legends such as Charlie Parker, Ray Charles, and Lionel Hampton. Though his career had its ups and downs, including long periods of obscurity, Scott experienced a resurgence in the 1990s, thanks in part to the efforts of artists like Lou Reed and Madonna who cited him as an influence. He continued to perform and record until shortly before his death, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by jazz enthusiasts worldwide.
5 Interesting Facts about Jimmy Scott
1. Jimmy Scott’s condition, Kallmann syndrome, not only affected his voice but also his height, contributing to his unique presence on stage.
2. Scott’s song “Sycamore Trees” was featured in the finale of David Lynch’s television series “Twin Peaks,” bringing his voice to a new generation of fans.
3. He was often referred to as “Little Jimmy Scott” early in his career due to his short stature and high voice.
4. Scott received the NEA Jazz Masters Award in 2007, one of the highest honors in the field of jazz.
5. He was married five times and had a tumultuous personal life, which often influenced the emotional depth of his music.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jimmy Scott
1. “You gotta have soul to sing, and I always try to put a little bit of mine in every song.”
2. “Music is a way to communicate, a way to tell a story. That’s what I love about it.”
3. “Every performance is a chance to connect with people, to share something real.”
4. “I never let my condition define me. My voice is a gift, and I treasure it.”
5. “The blues, the heartache—it’s all in the music. That’s where it belongs.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Jimmy Scott’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million.
Children
Jimmy Scott did not have any biological children but was known to be a mentor and father figure to many young musicians throughout his life.
Relevant Links
3. [Jimmy Scott on IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0780195/
4. [Jimmy Scott’s NEA Jazz Masters Profile](https://www.arts.gov/honors/jazz/jimmy-scott
5. [Jimmy Scott’s Discography on Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/artist/252431-Jimmy-Scott
