Pronunciation: [skˈatɪŋ] (IPA) 
Scatting is a term that refers to a style of jazz singing that involves the use of improvised vocalizations rather than lyrics. The word is spelled with a 'c' and two 't's' because it is derived from the word 'scat', which is a slang term for excrement. In terms of pronunciation, scatting is typically pronounced as /ˈskætɪŋ/, with the emphasis on the first syllable and the 'a' pronounced as a short 'a' sound.
Scatting is a musical technique primarily associated with jazz, in which vocalists use nonsense syllables to create improvised melodies and rhythms. It involves spontaneously vocalizing various sounds, often with intricate and rapid patterns, while interpreting a musical passage. The scatting technique allows singers to mimic instrumental tones and rhythms, contributing to the overall musical texture and improvisation.
Scatting originated in African American jazz in the early 20th century, gaining prominence through artists like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald. It enables vocalists to display their creativity and virtuosity, as well as their ability to follow the melodic and rhythmic structure of a song in an improvised manner.
During scatting, performers typically employ scat syllables such as "doo," "ba," "shoo," "bop," "dig," and "deedle" instead of singing lyrics. These syllables are often interconnected in intricate patterns, where syllables are assigned to different notes and musical phrases. Scatting involves vocal improvisation, transforming the voice into an instrument that can interact with the accompanying musicians or other vocalists.
Scatting is not only limited to jazz but has also influenced other musical genres such as blues, swing, and bebop. It is seen as a form of expression and a demonstration of a vocalist's technical prowess, creativity, and understanding of the music. Scatting allows musicians to break free from the constraints of traditional lyrics and explore new musical possibilities, enhancing improvisation and collaboration within a performance or recording.
The word "scatting" has its roots in jazz music and specifically refers to a vocal improvisation technique. The term originated in the early 20th century, and its etymology can be traced back to the scat syllables used in this style of singing. "Scat" itself is believed to come from the phrase "scat singing", which was popularized by jazz vocalist Louis Armstrong around the 1920s. The exact origin of the word "scat" remains unclear, but it is thought to be an onomatopoeic term imitating the sounds and rhythms created by the vocalist during improvised singing.
