Billie Holliday (1915-1959) was one of the most important black American jazz singers along with Bessie Smith, Ella Fitzgerald, Mahalia Jackson and Sarah Vaughan. Her short life which was marked by violence and drugs made Billie Holiday go through all the ups and downs. Her career was like a roller coaster ride, and yet, over the course of her career, she has achieved more for the development of American jazz and blues than most of her colleagues. Her trademark - the chrysanthemum in her hair - accompanied her until the end of her career. Fans called her "Lady Day" and today she has a permanent place in the "Hall of Fame" of jazz. The 68 titles in this collection range from the earliest studio recordings in 1935 to the last live performances given shortly before Billie Holliday's death in 1959. The conclusion is a short spoken statement by Billie Holliday about the blues. With a heavy voice, already clearly marked the decline due to abuse of alcohol and drugs, and already hit by the shadow of death, she sums up her life in one sentence: "The Blues - that's my life!" All tracks on this collection have been remastered in 24 Bit HD.