Billie Holiday Begins Her Recording Career
At a glance:
- Series: Great Events from History II: Arts and Culture Series
- Categories: Women’s Issues, Music
- Subcategories: African Americans, Blacks, Entertainment, Entertainers, Composers, Songwriters, Musicians, Singers
- Curriculum: American History 1901-1950, Women’s History, African American History
- Geographical Location: New York City
- Date: 1933
Article abstract: Producer John Hammond’s recording of Billie Holiday singing with Benny Goodman’s band in 1933 brought her to the attention of jazz aficionados.
Summary of Event
Billie Holiday was born Eleanora Fagan in Baltimore, Maryland, on April 7, 1915, to Sadie Fagan and guitarist Clarence Holiday, a guitarist in the renowned band led by Fletcher Henderson. Her parents were later married briefly. After they separated, she was left with relatives while her mother went to New York to find work. There are several stories about the origin of the...
[The entire page is 2550 words long]
Join eNotes
Over 3,500 study guides, question and answer forums, literature criticism, reference content, and much more!
