Marlena Shaw is an American jazz, blues, and soul singer, renowned for her powerful, versatile vocals and engaging stage presence. Born in 1942, Shaw's career took off in the mid-1960s, and she became the first female vocalist signed to Blue Note Records in 1972. She is particularly known for her hit "Woman of the Ghetto," a socio-political commentary that has been widely sampled in hip-hop music. Shaw's style incorporates elements of jazz standards, show tunes, and contemporary pop, making her a significant figure in the evolution of jazz and soul music.