In celebration of her amazing life and legacy, Thinking About Jazz at Westminster Church will present a special program marking her 100th birthday on April 25 at 1 p.m.
Born Eleanora Fagan in Philadelphia on April 7, 1915, Billie Holiday survived incredible odds, including isolation, prostitution, racism, sexism, and a persistent drug addiction, to become one of the most remarkable musicians of her time. She was a prolific artist, an innovator, and a vocal wonder who is distinguished in such classics as Fine and Mellow, Lover Man, Body and Soul, God Bless the Child, and the haunting Strange Fruit, the protest song against lynching with which she often ended performances.
This special presentation will be offered by Jessica Boykin-Settles, a DC jazz vocalist and educator who has become a diligent student of Holiday’s music.
Thinking About Jazz is an educational activity of the Jazz Night initiative on a bi-monthly schedule at Westminster Church (400 I St. SW). The program happens from 1-3 p.m. and offers lunch, door prizes, and great discussion about various artists and subjects from the world of jazz. Jazz Night has been a tremendous benefit for the Southwest community and our local art scene. For more information, call 202.641.8220. We hope you will join us.
By: Brian Hamilton