Chicago singer Christy Bennett has been influenced by and performed the work other share of jazz legends, but her specialty is uncovering the gifts of lesser known songwriters, especially women. On her new album, Good Morning Heartache: the Music of Irene Higginbotham, she explores the work of an overlooked ‘40s composer (nice of the great swing trombonist J.C. Higginbotham) who is perhaps best known for her work with Billie Holiday but also wrote songs recorded by Anita O’Day, Dinah Washington, Peggy Lee and Nat King Cole.

"Bennett's voice was sweet and supple, and her relaxed, soft-edge phrasing flowed with the relaxed confidence of a true jazz singer." Chicago Classical Review