Anecdotes

Popular singer in 1940s/50s. Hits included "Cow Cow Boogie" and "Milkman Keep Those Bottles Quiet."

Came from a musical family, her father was a drummer and mother a pianist.

Her recording of "Cow Cow Boogie" was the first million-selling single for Capitol Records. (1942)

Her biggest hit was "The Blacksmith Blues" released on 16 February 1952. It was on the hit charts for 22-weeks and reached the Number 3 position.

Married a number of times and had six children in all.

Often mistaken as a black singer because of her flavorful R&B touch, she is said to have greatly influenced the rock-and-roll style of the 50s. Elvis Presley often credited her for teaching him how to sing.

Stopped recording in 1957 but continued to perform live in such venues as Disneyland until 1987.

Signed by Jimmy Dorsey at the age of 14 (she lied about her age and said she was 19) and was subsequently fired after discovering the truth about her age.

She was awarded a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Recording at 1724 Vine Street in Hollywood, California.