2009 collection. Ethel Waters had a long and varied career, and was one of the first true Jazz singers to record. Defying racism with her talent and bravery, Waters became a stage and movie star in the 1930s and `40s without leaving the U.S.  Recordings of Ethel Waters were inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, which is a special Grammy award established in 1973 to honor recordings that are at least 25 years old, and that have qualitative or historical significance. 23 tracks. Bygone Days.