A popular singer of the 1940s and 1950s, known for her smooth, sultry voice and hit songs like "A Little Bird Told Me" and "Powder Your Face with Sunshine".
Evelyn Knight, born Evelyn Davis, was an American singer who rose to fame in the 1940s and 1950s with her velvety smooth voice and captivating stage presence. Dubbed the "lissome blonde lassie with a gentle little voice" by none other than Damon Runyon, Knight's talent and charm endeared her to audiences across the nation.
Born on December 31, 1917, in Reedville, Virginia, Knight's early life was marked by her love for music. Her father, a geodetic surveyor for the government, encouraged her to sing in the young people's choir at her local church. Following his passing, Knight and her mother moved to Arlington County, Virginia, in 1926, where she began performing in Washington nightclubs at the age of 16 under the stage name "Honey Davis."
At 18, Knight married war photographer Andrew B. Knight and adopted her professional moniker, Evelyn Knight. Her breakthrough came in 1945 with her debut recording "Dance with a Dolly (With a Hole in Her Stocking)" for Decca Records, which swiftly climbed the charts to become a Top 10 hit.
In the late 1940s and early 1950s, Knight's voice and style captivated listeners, earning her two No. 1 hits and 13 Top 40 records. Her iconic duet with The Stardusters, "A Little Bird Told Me," held the top spot for seven weeks and remained on the chart for an impressive five months. Other notable hits include "Powder Your Face with Sunshine," "Buttons and Bows," and "Candy and Cake."
Knight's talents extended beyond the recording studio, with memorable appearances on popular television shows like The Ed Sullivan Show and The Colgate Comedy Hour. She also graced the airwaves with radio performances, including a notable duet with country legend Red Foley and a pair of collaborations with the incomparable Bing Crosby.
Knight's contributions to the music industry earned her a place among the esteemed members of the Virginia Music Hall of Fame. Her lasting impact on American music ensures her legacy as one of the most beloved singers of her era.
Knight's life was marked by personal struggles, including the loss of her father and her husband, Andrew Knight. Despite these challenges, she remained dedicated to her craft, inspiring countless musicians and fans alike. Her smooth, sultry voice continues to mesmerize audiences, cementing her status as a true legend of American music.
Evelyn Knight's velvet voice and captivating stage presence continue to enchant audiences, ensuring her place as one of the most beloved singers of the 1940s and 1950s. Her legacy serves as a testament to the power of music to transcend time and touch the hearts of generations to come.
Born in 1915
Legendary jazz vocalist and actress known for her expressive, emotive singing style and iconic songs like "God Bless the Child" and "Strange Fruit".
Born in 1917
A virtuosic jazz vocalist known for her pure, expressive tone, impeccable phrasing, and incredible scat singing abilities. She won 13 Grammy Awards and recorded over 200 albums.
Born in 1924
A legendary jazz vocalist and pianist, known for her powerful, soulful voice and iconic renditions of blues and jazz standards.
Born in 1920
A sultry-voiced jazz singer-songwriter and actress who mesmerized audiences with her smooth, velvety tone and timeless hits like "Why Don't You Do Right?" and "Fever".
Born in 1920
A renowned jazz vocalist, pianist, and actress who interpreted lyrics with emotional depth and phrased with impeccable timing, known for her distinctive, expressive voice and impressive scat singing abilities.
Born in 1924
A highly influential jazz vocalist known for her rich, velvety tone and impressive technical ability, particularly in the bebop and swing genres.
Born in 1919
Jazz vocalist known for her distinctive, virtuosic singing style and iconic performances at the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival. She was a pioneer for female jazz musicians, breaking down barriers with her talent and determination.
Born in 1925
A sultry-voiced jazz singer known for her smooth, velvety tone and iconic interpretations of American standards. Her distinctive style and phrasing continue to influence vocalists today.
