Pearl Bailey was a singer and actress known for her talent, warmth and genuine style. Her career spanned over six decades (1933 – 1990) and she was successful in many different entertainment venues – Nightclubs, Broadway, Movies and Television.
Pearl Bailey began as a vaudeville performer in the 1930s. She performed in many well-known nightclubs and eventually became a regular stand-in performer with Count Basie and his Orchestra.
Her first Broadway musical was St. Louis Woman in 1946 which would be the beginning of many more Broadway appearances. Pearl Bailey’s most successful Broadway show was the all-black cast production of Hello Dolly! She won a Tony Award for her performance and the only reason the show was stopped after two years was because she was diagnosed with heart trouble.
Pearl Bailey’s film career included many classic movies including two very famous all-black cast films, Porgy and Bess and Carmen Jones. Unfortunately, Porgy and Bess is not currently available on video, but Carmen Jones, a Top 100 BlackClassicMovies.com film, is available on DVD.
In 1971 Pearl Bailey had her own television show named The Pearl Bailey Show, which ran for one season. She also appeared regularly on many popular television variety shows during the 60s, 70s and 80s.
Pearl Bailey was awarded The Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1988 for her outstanding contribution to music in the United States. Her soundtracks continue to sell to this day. |
Pearl Bailey 
