Putney Dandridge was an American actor who is best known for his roles in Harlem Is Heaven (1932), Scandal (1933), and Low Down – A Bird’s Eye View of Harlem (1929). He was a talented vocalist, pianist, and band leader, contributing significantly to the entertainment industry.
Personal and Family Life
Putney Dandridge was born on January 13, 1902, in Richmond, Virginia. He started his career in vaudeville and gained fame as a performer. Little is known about his personal life, but he was known for working alongside famous artists like tap dancer Bill ‘Bojangles’ Robinson.
Career
Putney Dandridge’s career spanned various roles in entertainment. After performing in vaudeville, he appeared in the ‘Drake & Walker Show’ starting in 1918. He led his own musical group from 1932 to 1934 and later worked as a sideman for Adrian Rollini in New York.
Death and Legacy
Putney Dandridge died on February 15, 1946, in New York City, New York. His contributions to music and film have left a lasting impact on the industry. Although not widely known today, he played an important role in the evolution of African American entertainment.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1929 | Low Down – A Bird’s Eye View of Harlem | One of the Washboard Serenaders (uncredited) |
| 1932 | Harlem Is Heaven | Stage Manager |
| 1933 | Scandal | Putney Dandridge |