Themetta Berry, also known as "Tulsa," was an American jazz singer and songwriter who achieved success in the 1940s and 1950s. She was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1917 and died in Los Angeles, California, in 2011 at the age of 94.
Themetta Berry's Career
Berry’s career began in the 1930s when she performed in clubs and hotels throughout the Deep South. She traveled with the legendary jazz bandleader Cab Calloway and developed a signature style of jazzy blues. She released her first LP, “Tulsa”, in 1945. The album featured her original compositions as well as covers of classics such as “Dream A Little Dream of Me”, “Ain’t Misbehavin’”, and “Crazy Blues”.
In the 1950s, Berry moved to Los Angeles, where she became a sought-after session singer. She performed with some of the biggest stars of the era, including Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sammy Davis Jr. She also appeared on several television shows, including “The Nat King Cole Show” and “The Ed Sullivan Show”.
Berry continued to record and perform throughout her life. In the mid-1990s, she released a second album, “Themetta Sings the Blues”, which featured some of her best-known songs. She also toured extensively, performing at jazz festivals and other events.
When Did Themetta Berry Die?
Themetta Berry died on June 11, 2011, at the age of 94. She had been in declining health for several years, but still had a passion for performing and recording. She had been a fixture in the jazz and blues community for more than 70 years.
People Also Ask
Where Was Themetta Berry Born?
Themetta Berry was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1917.
Who Was Themetta Berry's Husband?
Themetta Berry was married to jazz trumpeter, arranger, and composer George "Tiny" Davis. They were married for 50 years, until Davis's death in 1990.
What Was Themetta Berry's First Album?
Themetta Berry's first album was released in 1945, and was titled "Tulsa". It featured original compositions by Berry, as well as covers of classic songs.
What Was Themetta Berry's Signature Style?
Themetta Berry's signature style was a blend of jazz and blues. She had a unique voice and was known for her passionate delivery of songs.
What Was Themetta Berry's Last Album?
Themetta Berry's last album was released in the mid-1990s, and was titled "Themetta Sings the Blues". It featured some of her best-known songs.
Themetta Berry was a jazz and blues singer and songwriter who achieved success in the 1940s and 1950s. She was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1917 and died in Los Angeles, California in 2011 at the age of 94. Her career spanned more than 70 years and her signature style of jazzy blues made her a popular performer.