HOLLYWOOD, Calif. -- International Jazz Day has a global reach thanks to the United Nations establishment of the holiday, but here in Los Angeles, the musical genre’s local impact has transformed the life of one very dedicated singer.

Local jazz legend Barbara Morrison credits jazz for all the positive memories she’s gathered over the years living in Los Angeles.

“It is everything. It’s how I make my living. It’s what inspired me to do all the things I do. Years ago my father told me, 'Find something you love to do and you’ll never work a day in your life.' So this is my job, and I’m not working,” Morrison said.

Morrison’s jazz career launched in Los Angeles. She frequently graces the stage at the Catalina Bar and Grill in Hollywood, performing traditional jazz standards with a full band backing her.

She says she’s thankful venues like Catalina’s still support jazz. 

“One of the biggest things that I loved about working here is, I got to come in and see some of the greatest artists in the world. Like Dizzy Gillespie, who helped Catalina, who was just starting Catalina Bar and Grill, and they helped her, and she helped them,” Morrison said.

The local jazz club brings on both established and up-and-coming jazz performers.

And for Morrison, a double amputee, she appreciates an authentic atmosphere and audience dedicated to the culture and craft that is jazz.

“When my mother passed away, all I could think of was her saying, ‘Oh, I’ll never let you go. I’ll never go anywhere. I’ll never let you go.’ And that’s the song I love the most,” said Morrison.