Shaw was introduced to jazz by her uncle, and played small clubs until her breakthrough. Her first single with Cadet records, a rare vocal version of “Mercy Mercy Mercy” was an unexpected success, and displayed her powerful vocal range and charismatic presence. Her second album “The Spice Of Life” contained hit songs "California Soul" and "Woman of the Ghetto," which became soul and rare groove classics. She has been sampled endlessly and continues to record and perform today, as a beloved and influential figure in the world of jazz and soul music.