Singer

Coloratura Soprano Opera Singer

Caroroll (1935-2019) was an actress and the first Black woman to earn an Emmy nomination (1969).

Funk singer, model, futuristic fashionista, and second wife of Miles Davis, Betty (1944-2022) was known for her raw lyrics, powerful voice, and innovative blend of funk, soul, and rock. During their brief marriage, Betty was Davis' muse and profoundly influenced his musical direction and sense of style. “Miles was pure energy, sometimes light but also dark. He was driven inspiring and also angry. Everyday married to him, was a day I earned the name Davis.”

The Voice!

"It seems I was born different. At least, I always thought I was."

Ada Beatrice Queen Victoria Louise Virginia Smith, called "Bricktop" for her fiery red hair, led an extraordinary life and was known by many names including The Queen of Paris Nightclubs.

Maynor (1910-1996) was an international concert soprano, the first African American to sing at a US President’s Inauguration (Harry Truman, 1949), and the Founder of the Harlem School of Arts.

Opera Singer

Multifaceted - Performa, Opera

Entertainer

Singer and Actress

Dandridge (1922-1965) was an actress and singer, known for her remarkable performances in films such as "Carmen Jones" (1954) and "Porgy and Bess" (1959). Dandridge's portrayal of the title role in "Carmen Jones" earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, making her the first African American woman to be nominated in this category. Ironically, Halle Berry, who later became the first African American woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress (2001), portrayed Dandridge in the HBO biopic "Introducing Dorothy Dandridge" (1999), paying tribute to the iconic actress's life and legacy.

Multi-talent: a musicologist, diplomat, philanthropist, actress, singer, educator, sociologist, and administrator.

(1926-1984)

The "Queen of Disco".