She was a beautiful person who stood up for what she believed in. It may have harmed her career in the long run but it only made her a stronger more celebrated person. Basically it made her an icon. I still remember that great episode of A Different World when they honored Lena Horne. She ended up in the diner with Mr. Gains, Kim and Kim's boyfriend dancing to reggae music. I also remember her on Cosby show when she sung to Mr. Cosby. She was a great woman.
Lena Horne, who died at age 92 on Sunday night, was not only one of the 20th century's most popular performers, she was also a civil rights trailblazer whose career suffered gravely for her principles. Her aching signature tune, 'Stormy Weather,' is often seen as a metaphor for a life that saw great triumphs, but also personal tragedy and professional sacrifice for her commitment to racial equality.
Shortly after moving to Hollywood in 1941, Horne became the first black performer signed to a major film studio when she was picked up by MGM. But like singer and dancer Josephine Baker, who was eleven years her senior, Horne achieved international stardom while racial discrimination in her own country dramatically restricted her professional and private lives.
No comments:
Post a Comment