Ethel Ennis was an American singer and actress who is best known for her performances with legendary musicians like Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, and Louis Armstrong, as well as her acclaimed album “Lullabies for Losers.”
Personal and Family Life
Ethel Llewellyn Ennis was born on November 28, 1932, in Baltimore, Maryland. She was married to Earl Arnett until her death and had previously been married to Jack Leeds. In her youth, she studied piano and worked as a church pianist while developing her love for rhythm and blues, which led her to perform with local jazz musicians.
Career Highlights
Ethel gained fame as “Baltimore’s first lady of jazz.” She debuted as a singer at age 15 and quickly gained popularity, even receiving praise from Billie Holiday after releasing her first album. She also made memorable appearances at major jazz festivals and performed the national anthem at significant public events, such as Nixon’s 1973 presidential inauguration.
Death and Legacy
Ethel Ennis passed away on February 17, 2019, in her hometown of Baltimore due to a stroke. Her contributions to jazz music and her influence on future generations of musicians are remembered fondly. She left behind a legacy as a talented artist who broke barriers in the music industry.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Mad Monster Party? | 1967-03-08 | Title Song Singer (voice) |
| The Mike Douglas Show | 1961-12-11 | Self |
| The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson | 1962-10-01 | Self |