Lena Horne

Biography

Lena Horne (June 30, 1917 - May 9, 2010) was a multifaceted talent known for her contributions as a singer, dancer, actress, and civil rights advocate. At just sixteen, she began her career in the chorus line of the iconic Cotton Club, quickly establishing herself as a captivating nightclub performer. Her transition to Hollywood saw her in various roles, with notable performances in the films "Cabin in the Sky" and "Stormy Weather."

However, the political climate during the Red Scare led to Horne facing a blacklist due to her progressive views, which hindered her opportunities in the film industry. Undeterred, she returned to her nightclub roots and became an active participant in the civil rights movement, including taking part in the historic March on Washington in August 1963. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Horne continued to shine as a performer in clubs and on television, releasing several acclaimed albums.

In March 1980, she announced her retirement but soon made a remarkable comeback with her one-woman show, "Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music," which enjoyed over three hundred performances on Broadway and earned her numerous accolades. Horne remained active in music and performance into the 1990s before stepping back from the spotlight in 2000. She passed away in New York City on May 9, 2010. Throughout her illustrious career, Horne garnered four Grammy Awards, a Tony Award, and the NAACP Image Award, and she was honored with the Kennedy Center Honors in 1984.