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Conversation: James Gavin, Author of New Lena Horne Biography

Posted by Jeffrey Brown , August 21, 2009

For many decades, Lena Horne was one of the best known and loved entertainers in the world, known for her talent and beauty. From her Cotton Club debut in the 1930s and her emergence as Hollywood's most glamorous black star, to her Tony-award winning one-woman broadway show, "The Lady and Her Music."

James Gavin, who has also written books about jazz musician Chet Baker and the golden age of Cabaret in New York, has just published a new biography on Horne. "Stormy Weather: The Life of Lena Horne" looks at her career and the often troubled life behind it.

For more on Lena Horne from PBS, read a profile of Horne from American Masters and watch a classic Sesame Street clip of Horne singing with Kermit the Frog.

Comments

Posted:
08/21/09 at
09:00 PM

Philip Ciaffa : I look forward with great anticipation to reading this new book. A terrific interview, as well! Ms. Horne is much loved and much admired for her great courage and for the tremendous gift, she has shared with the world. What a great shame, that she endured such disrespect and ignorance for much of her lifetime! I hope that she comes to know the vast, deep well of love and good will, felt by legions of her unknown admirers and fans.
Posted:
08/21/09 at
11:25 PM

loren : I had the great joy to see Ms Horne in her one woman show twice,In New York & San Francisco.It was a very moving experience. Until I listened to Mr Gavin, I had the impression,from radio & TV ( 60 minutes)interviews that she had come to peace with herself . I agree that her life does reflect the journey that all of us have been on "to create a more perfect union" She is an inspiration in courage.
Posted:
08/22/09 at
01:24 PM

James W. Preston, Sr. : Does anyone know if James Gavin served in the Army in Vietnam in 1968? He reminds me of someone I served with by the same name.
Posted:
08/23/09 at
01:54 PM

H. Jackson : Mr. Brown: Find someone who can discuss Lena Horne's music, the songs she recorded before and after she was at MGM, her vocal range, the arrangements of her songs, etc.

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