Billie Holiday, William Dufty
What’s inside
Lady Sings the Blues is the fiercely honest, no-holds-barred autobiography of Billie Holiday, the legendary jazz, swing, and standards singing sensation. Co-authored with William Dufty, the book details Holiday’s life from her childhood in Baltimore to becoming one of the most influential jazz vocalists of all time. Throughout the memoir, Holiday confronts issues of race, poverty, and the complexities of fame, while also providing insight into the vibrant jazz scene of her era. Her story is a profound exploration of the human spirit’s resilience amidst adversity.
You’ll Learn
- Understanding the history of jazz and its cultural impact
- Gaining insights into the challenges faced by African American artists
- Inspiration from Holiday’s resilience and artistic integrity
- Appreciation for the complexity of human emotions through Holiday’s narrative
Key Points
- Billie Holiday’s troubled childhood
- Rise to fame in the jazz scene
- Struggles with addiction and relationships
- Impact on music and civil rights
- Legacy in the world of jazz and beyond
Who’s it For
- Jazz enthusiasts
- Readers interested in autobiographies
- Music historians
- Individuals exploring race and gender issues
About the author
Billie Holiday, born Eleanora Fagan in 1915, was an American jazz and swing music singer with a career spanning nearly thirty years. Known for her vocal delivery and improvisational skills, Holiday’s contributions to music have made her an icon. Co-author William Dufty was a writer and journalist, known for his collaborations on autobiographies.