Final answer:
The statement that is not true of Artie Shaw is c) He was known for his vocal prowess; Shaw was famous for his clarinet playing and leadership as a bandleader during the Swing Era.
Step-by-step explanation:
Artie Shaw was a renowned clarinetist and bandleader during the Swing Era, but he was not recognized for his singing abilities. He made famous recordings, including a version of "Star Dust," but vocal performances were not his forte.
Singer Bessie Smith, on the other hand, was known for her vocal prowess during the same era. She became widely regarded as "The Empress of the Blues" and collaborated with other jazz legends such as Louis Armstrong, showcasing her exceptional singing talent. Her songs like "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out" further cemented her status as a blues icon.
Therefore, in terms of Shaw's accomplishments, his skills lay in his instrumental performances and not his vocal talents, making option c) the correct answer to the question about what is not true of Artie Shaw.