Adelaide Hall Biography: An Icon of Jazz and the Harlem Renaissance
Adelaide Hall was an American-born jazz singer, actress and dancer known for her contributions to the Harlem Renaissance and her pioneering work in the world of music and entertainment.
Full Name: Adelaide Louise Hall
Birthdate: October 20, 1901
Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, USA
Passing: November 7, 1993
Adelaide Hall Biography:
Early Life: Adelaide Hall was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1901. She was of African, British and American heritage. Her early exposure to music and dance helped shape her artistic interests.
Harlem Renaissance: Hall rose to prominence during the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural and artistic movement in the 1920s, where she became a prominent figure in the New York City entertainment scene.
Career in Music: She was a talented jazz singer known for her vocal range and her ability to perform various music genres, including jazz, blues and popular songs. She recorded extensively and became known for her powerful and soulful voice.
Pioneering Achievements: Adelaide Hall was a groundbreaking artist who achieved several notable “firsts” during her career. She was the first African American international star to have her own radio show and she was among the first to sing the jazz standard “Creole Love Call” with Duke Ellington and His Orchestra.
Theatre and Film: Hall’s talents extended to the stage and screen. She appeared in musicals and revues, such as “Shuffle Along” and “Chocolate Kiddies,” and also ventured into acting in films.
International Success: She enjoyed a successful international career, performing in various countries, including the United States, Europe and the United Kingdom.
The Chocolate Kiddies: In 1925, she joined the cast of “The Chocolate Kiddies,” a highly successful African American revue that toured in Europe. Her involvement in this production marked the beginning of her international career.
London and European Success: Adelaide Hall’s talent took her to London and Europe, where she became a popular jazz singer. She was often accompanied by prominent musicians of the time, including Duke Ellington and Fats Waller.
Later Life: In her later years, Adelaide Hall continued to perform and record music. She received recognition for her lifelong contributions to music and the arts.
Passing: Adelaide Hall passed away on November 7, 1993, in London, United Kingdom.