Damita Jo DeBlanc facts for kids
Damita Jo DeBlanc (born August 5, 1930 – died December 25, 1998), known as Damita Jo, was an American actress, comedian, and singer. She was famous for her amazing voice and stage presence.
About Damita Jo's Life
Damita Jo DeBlanc was born in Austin, Texas, USA. In the 1950s, she was the main singer for a group called Steve Gibson and the Red Caps. She later married Steve Gibson. They separated in 1959. Damita Jo and Steve had a daughter named Stephanie Latrelle Gibson, born in 1955. Stephanie also became a singer and pianist, continuing her family's love for music.
Damita Jo became well-known in the early 1960s with her songs. She had two popular "answer songs." These are songs that respond to another famous song. In 1960, she released "I'll Save the Last Dance for You," which was an answer to "Save the Last Dance for Me." In 1961, she released "I'll Be There," which answered "Stand by Me." Both of these songs were originally sung by Ben E. King. Damita Jo's versions were big hits on the R&B music charts. "I'll Be There" also reached number 12 on the main pop chart.
She also recorded "Dance with a Dolly (With a Hole in her Stocking)" in 1962. This song was popular before, sung by the Andrews Sisters and Bill Haley. In 1966, she had another hit with her version of the song "If You Go Away." Damita Jo was very successful in Sweden. Her songs like "I'll Save the Last Dance for You" and "Dance with a Dolly" were very popular there.
Damita Jo worked with many famous musicians. These included Ray Charles, Count Basie, and Lionel Hampton. In 1963, she recorded music with Billy Eckstine. She also performed comedy and toured with the comedian Redd Foxx.
Damita Jo passed away on December 25, 1998, in Baltimore, Maryland. She had a breathing illness.
Filmography
- 2009 Damita Jo: The Lady is a Tramp (Arkadia Jazz DVD)
