June Christy, born Shirley Luster on November 20, 1925, in Springfield, Illinois, was an influential American singer renowned for her contributions to the cool jazz genre. She grew up in Decatur, Illinois, and began her singing career at a young age, performing with local bands such as the Bill Oetzel Orchestra. After high school, she moved to Chicago and adopted the stage name Sharon Leslie, singing with Boyd Raeburn's orchestra and later Benny Strong's band.

In 1945, Christy replaced Anita O'Day as the vocalist for Stan Kenton's Orchestra, marking the beginning of her rise to fame. During her tenure with Kenton, she recorded hits like "Tampico," which became a million-seller, and "Shoo Fly Pie and Apple Pan Dowdy." Her collaboration with arranger Pete Rugolo was pivotal, as he crafted arrangements that highlighted her unique vocal style.

Christy embarked on a successful solo career in 1954, releasing her debut album "Something Cool," which became a defining work of the cool jazz movement. She continued to record several acclaimed albums for Capitol Records, including "The Misty Miss Christy" and "Fair and Warmer." Her work with Rugolo remained a constant throughout her career, with his arrangements complementing her vocal prowess.

June Christy married multi-instrumentalist Bob Cooper in 1946, and they remained together until her death. She semi-retired in the 1960s but made a brief return to recording in 1977 with the album "Impromptu." Christy passed away on June 21, 1990, in Sherman Oaks, California, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most talented and distinctive voices in jazz history.