Eleanora Fagan, the Legendary Billie Holiday
Early Life and Nickname
Born Eleanora Fagan on April 7, 1915, Billie Holiday's birth name was later changed to Eleanor Gough McKay. Known affectionately as Lady Day by her close friend and mentor, Lester Young, Holiday's distinctive nickname became synonymous with her unparalleled vocal prowess.
Jazz Vocalist Extraordinaire
As a jazz singer, Billie Holiday possessed an extraordinary vocal range and an emotive delivery that captivated audiences. Her unique phrasing and masterful use of improvisation earned her recognition as one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time.
Rise to Fame and Challenges
Holiday's career took off in the 1930s with her performances at renowned nightclubs and her collaborations with jazz legends such as Benny Goodman and Count Basie. However, her personal life was marked by struggles with substance abuse and legal issues, which ultimately cut her life short at the age of 44 on July 17, 1959.
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