Entertainer. A gospel vocalist (later jazz and blues) and actress, she is remembered for her original portrayal of singer Bessie Smith in the Broadway musical "Me and Bessie" (1975 to 1976). Born Melinda Helen Matthews, her father who was a deacon died prior to her birth. She was raised by her mother who was a housemaid. Her passion for singing began at an early age, as she participated in her church choir and after coming in contact with gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, she joined an all female gospel group, for which led to a recording contract. After moving to Oakland, California in 1950, she had a brief engagement at a nightclub, prior to experienced her break in the industry, when she became a vocalist for bandleader Johnny Otis. She recorded several songs with Otis of which includes "Warning Blues" (1951). During the 1950s, she expanded her musical talents to include R&B style songs, in addition to experiencing performances in productions on stage. In 1963, she recorded the duet "Shake a Hand" with Jackie Wilson. Her most prolific work was on the Broadway stage and in 1970, she made her debut in the musical "Purlie" (1970 to 1971). This was followed with "Inner City" (1971 to 1972), in which she distinguished herself, as she was the recipient of a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award. She received a Tony Award nomination for "Me and Bessie" (1975 to 1976) and an additional Tony Award nomination for "Black and Blue" (1989 to 1991). Among her film credits include "The Education of Sonny Carson" (1974), "Honkytonk Man" (1982) and "Go Tell It on the Mountain" (1984). She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005 for her work as a live performer.
Entertainer. A gospel vocalist (later jazz and blues) and actress, she is remembered for her original portrayal of singer Bessie Smith in the Broadway musical "Me and Bessie" (1975 to 1976). Born Melinda Helen Matthews, her father who was a deacon died prior to her birth. She was raised by her mother who was a housemaid. Her passion for singing began at an early age, as she participated in her church choir and after coming in contact with gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, she joined an all female gospel group, for which led to a recording contract. After moving to Oakland, California in 1950, she had a brief engagement at a nightclub, prior to experienced her break in the industry, when she became a vocalist for bandleader Johnny Otis. She recorded several songs with Otis of which includes "Warning Blues" (1951). During the 1950s, she expanded her musical talents to include R&B style songs, in addition to experiencing performances in productions on stage. In 1963, she recorded the duet "Shake a Hand" with Jackie Wilson. Her most prolific work was on the Broadway stage and in 1970, she made her debut in the musical "Purlie" (1970 to 1971). This was followed with "Inner City" (1971 to 1972), in which she distinguished herself, as she was the recipient of a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award. She received a Tony Award nomination for "Me and Bessie" (1975 to 1976) and an additional Tony Award nomination for "Black and Blue" (1989 to 1991). Among her film credits include "The Education of Sonny Carson" (1974), "Honkytonk Man" (1982) and "Go Tell It on the Mountain" (1984). She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005 for her work as a live performer.
Bio by: C.S.
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