Lena Horne, 92, an electrifying performer who shattered racial boundaries by changing the way Hollywood presented black women and who enjoyed a six-decade singing career on stage, television and in films, died Sunday at New York-Presbyterian Hospital.
Ms. Horne, considered one of the most beautiful women in the world, came to the attention of Hollywood in 1942. She was the first black woman to sign a meaningful long-term contract with a major studio, a contract that said she would never have to play a maid. –via Adam Bernstein, The Washington Post.
Sesame Street, 1975
She leaves behind an amazing body of work. No doubt you’ll hear “Stormy Weather” in a report on her career during the next few days, as it is probably her best known song. If not, do yourself a favor and listen to it. When I think of Lena Horne, however, that song is the second thing that comes to mind.