A jazz and pop vocalist known for her powerful, soulful voice and iconic duets with Louis Prima, earning her a Grammy Award and a lasting legacy in the music industry.
Known for her smooth, sultry vocals and captivating stage presence, Keely Smith was a renowned American jazz and popular music singer who dominated the entertainment industry alongside her husband Louis Prima in the 1950s. With a slew of hit records, Grammy awards, and iconic performances, Smith's legacy continues to mesmerize audiences to this day.
Born Dorothy Jacqueline Keely on March 9, 1928, in Norfolk, Virginia, Smith's ancestry was a rich mix of Irish and Cherokee. Her stepfather, Jesse Smith, was a carpenter, and her mother worked hard to provide for the family, even taking in laundry to buy gowns for Smith to wear during her performances.
Smith's love for music began at a tender age, and by 11, she was already a regular cast member of The Joe Brown Radio Gang program on a Norfolk station. At 14, she sang with a naval air station band led by Saxie Dowell, and by 15, she landed her first paying job with the Earl Bennett band.
In 1949, Smith saw Louis Prima perform in New York City, and it marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership both on and off stage. They married on July 13, 1953, and went on to record numerous hits, including the Grammy-winning That Old Black Magic in 1959.
Smith and Prima's act was a mainstay of the Las Vegas lounge scene in the 1950s, with their unique blend of jazz, pop, and comedy. They performed on stage, television, and motion pictures, earning them a place among the entertainment elite. Their hits, such as I've Got You Under My Skin and Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen, remain timeless classics.
Smith's deadpan act and sultry vocals earned her a loyal following, and she became known for her captivating stage presence. Her voice was often described as smooth and seductive, making her a standout performer in the jazz and pop genres.
Keely Smith's legacy extends far beyond her impressive catalog of hits. She paved the way for future generations of female vocalists, inspiring them with her unique style and captivating performances. Her memory continues to be celebrated through her music, which remains an essential part of American entertainment history.
Keely Smith's remarkable career is a testament to her dedication, passion, and talent. Her music continues to delight audiences, and her legacy serves as a reminder of the power of jazz and pop to bring people together.
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