Monday, May 10, 2010

Lena Horne (1917-2010)

Lena Horne was as much a trailblazer as baseball player Jackie Robinson, shattering the color barrier on Broadway back in the 40's and becoming a top attraction. Ms. Horne passed away over the weekend at 92, but the cause of death is still not yet known. All we know is that she was being treated at Cedars-Sinai Hospital at the time of her passing.

The first time I'd actually seen Ms. Horne on television, that I can remember, was a guest appearance on Sanford & Son, in which Fred Sanford (Redd Foxx) had developed a crush on Lena and wanted desperately to meet her in person. Back then, it was an innocent plot device, but that context really wouldn't work today in an era of celebrity stalkers obsessed with their favorite stars.

Lena Horne will be remembered more for her signature song, "Stormy Weather", and for her involvement in the civil rights movement. She made a comeback of sorts with a one-woman Broadway show, "Lena Horne......The Lady & Her Music", in 1981, which introduced her to a modern generation of fans.

Rest in peace, Lena. You will be missed.

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