Billie Holiday

A African American Hero

By: Emily Cantrell 2012

Billie Holiday was a famous AfricaAmericans n singer who helped show people that African can do what white people do.

She was born on April 7, 1915. Around 1930, Billie began singing in local clubs and renamed herself “Billie” after film star Billie Dove. In 2000, Billie Holiday was inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Billie Holiday’s real name was Eleanora Fagan. Some sources say Baltimore, Maryland her birth certificate reportedly reads “Elinore Harris”.

At age 18, Billie was discovered by producer John Hammond while she was performing in a Harlem jazz club.

Billie Holiday weothers nt on record with jazz pianist Teddy Wilson and in 1935.

She had a thriving career for many years before she lost her battle with addiction. She died on July 19, 1959.

Billie Holiday will always be remembered as a great soul singer.