RANDY CRAWFORD
Genres: Pop, Art Song, Folk, Vocal Jazz • United States

Melodious vocalist who recorded and toured with the Crusaders while also recording her own light soul sets. One of the most readily identifiable voices of any contemporary female vocalist, Randy Crawford's initial recognition came from her fiery vocal on "Street Life," a 1979 song matching her with the Crusaders that was included on the soundtrack for Burt Reynolds' film Sharky's Machine. Crawford was born in Macon, Georgia, and grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio; she worked in clubs as a teen, accompanied by her father. Crawford was lead vocalist in a group that included bassist Bootsy Collins before touring as George Benson's opening act in 1972. Cannonball Adderley invited her to sing on his LP Big Man. Crawford recorded "Don't Get Caught in Love's Triangle," a song produced by Johnny Bristol, during a short stay on the label. She soon moved to Warner Bros., and after "Street Life," recorded and toured Europe read more...