At 18, while watching the movie Lady Sings the Blues Eastman became enchanted with Diana Ross's portrayal of vocalist Billie Holiday.
[1] She has listened to Miles Davis, particularly his 1960s quintet with Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, and Tony Williams.
Among vocalists, her prime inspiration is Carmen McRae, in addition to Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan.
[4] Eastman and vocalist Kitty Margolis started the record label Mad Kat.
She has recorded with pianists Cedar Walton and Kenny Barron, saxophonist Phil Woods, bassist Rufus Reid, and drummer Tony Williams.