Clarence Holiday facts for kids
Clarence Halliday (born in Baltimore on July 23, 1898 – died in Dallas on March 1, 1937), also known as Clarence Holiday, was an American musician. He was the father of the famous singer Billie Holiday.
Early Life and Music Beginnings
Clarence Holiday grew up in Baltimore. He went to a boys' school with another musician, Elmer Snowden, who played the banjo. Both Clarence and Elmer loved music.
They played the banjo in different jazz bands around Baltimore. One of these bands was led by the well-known musician Eubie Blake. Clarence started his journey as a musician at a young age.
When he was 21, Clarence Holiday moved from Baltimore to Philadelphia.
A Career in Music
Clarence Holiday was a talented musician. He played both rhythm guitar and banjo.
From 1928 to 1933, he was a member of the famous Fletcher Henderson Orchestra. This was a very popular jazz band at the time.
He also recorded music with other great artists. These included Benny Carter in 1934 and Bob Howard in 1935. Clarence also worked with musicians like Charlie Turner, Louis Metcalf, and the Don Redman Big Band.
Later Years and Passing
Clarence Holiday passed away in 1937. He had served in World War I and was exposed to a harmful chemical called mustard gas during his service. This exposure affected his health.
Later, while he was on tour in Texas, he became very ill with a lung problem. It was a time when hospitals were often separated based on race. This made it difficult for him to get quick medical care.
When he finally received treatment at a hospital for veterans, it was too late. He developed pneumonia, a serious lung infection. Without the medicines we have today, his illness became fatal.
Two years after his father's death, Billie Holiday recorded her famous song “Strange Fruit”. This song is often remembered in connection with her father's memory.
