Gloria Lynne facts for kids

Gloria Lynne (born Gloria Wilson; November 23, 1929 – October 15, 2013) was an amazing American jazz singer. She was also known as Gloria Alleyne. Gloria had a long and successful singing career. She recorded music from 1958 all the way to 2007.

Early Life and Musical Start

Gloria Wilson was born in Harlem, a famous neighborhood in New York City, in 1929. Her parents were John and Mary Wilson. Her mother was a gospel singer, which meant Gloria grew up surrounded by music.

As a young girl, Gloria sang in her local church choir. This helped her develop her beautiful voice and love for music from a very young age.

A Star on the Rise

When Gloria was just 15 years old, she won first prize at the Amateur Night contest. This famous contest was held at the Apollo Theater in Harlem. Winning there was a huge step for many talented artists.

In the 1950s, Gloria sang with popular groups like the Enchanters and the Dell-Tones. Later, she started recording music as a solo artist. Most of her solo songs were released under her stage name, Gloria Lynne. She signed with Everest in 1958 and also recorded for Fontana.

Overcoming Challenges

Even though Gloria showed great talent, she faced some tough times. Some people in the music business took advantage of her. She didn't always get paid fairly for her songs. But Gloria was strong! She kept working steadily and earned money from her live performances. This helped her continue her passion for music.

Sharing the Stage

Gloria Lynne performed with many famous singers. She shared the stage with music legends like Ray Charles, Billy Eckstine, Johnny Mathis, and Ella Fitzgerald. She also appeared in TV specials, including two with Harry Belafonte.

Gloria was not just a singer; she was also a songwriter. She wrote lyrics for popular songs like "Watermelon Man" with Herbie Hancock. She also wrote "All Day Long" with Kenny Burrell. Her last recorded song was "I Wish It Would Snow," which featured Bucky Pizzarelli. This song was even used in a movie called Seasons of Love in 2014.

To honor her amazing career, New York City declared July 25, 1995, as "Gloria Lynne Day."

Personal Life

Gloria Lynne was married to Harry Alleyne. They had a son named Richard. Gloria and Richard worked together on a music production company called Family Bread Music Inc.

Gloria Lynne passed away on October 15, 2013. She was 83 years old and died from a heart attack in Newark, New Jersey.

Awards and Recognition

Gloria Lynne received many awards for her contributions to music. These awards celebrated her talent and long career.

• In 1996, she received the International Women of Jazz Award.
• In 1997, she was honored with a Pioneer Award by the Rhythm and Blues Foundation.
• In 2003, she received the National Treasure Award.
• She was inducted into the National Black Sports and Entertainment Hall of Fame.
• In 2007, the State of Pennsylvania gave her a Living Legend Award.
• In 2008, she received a special award for "Outstanding Achievement In Jazz" at the New York MAC Awards.
• In 2010, she was honored at New York's Schomburg Library for her many contributions to music.

These awards show how much Gloria Lynne was loved and respected in the music world!