Billy Eckstine
Singer
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About Billy Eckstine
The American singer Billy Eckstine’s reputation rested on notable works such as “I Apologize”, “Feel the Warm”, “For Love of Ivy”, and “If She Walked Into My Life”. Almost two decades after his death, he was posthumously awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Family and Education
He was born to William and Charlotte Eckstine. He studied at Peabody High School of which prominent artists like Lorin Maazel and the American actor Gene Kelly attended. He also went to St. Paul Normal Industrial School and Howard University.
He was married to model and actress Carolle Drake, by whom he fathered four children.
Music Career
In 1939, he became the vocalist of the Grand Terrace Orchestra which was fronted by American pianist and bandleader Earl Hines. Five years later, he formed his own band named Billy Orchestra. The band served as a training institution that shaped musicians like Pearl Mae Bailey, Dexter Gordon, and Miles Davis.
His known for chalking up albums like “Billy Eckstine Imagination”, “No Cover No Minimum”, and “Once More With Feeling”. The latter was released in 1960. The 1960s saw the release of albums like “Don’t Worry ‘Bout Me”, “Now Singing In 12 Great Movies”, and “The Prime of My Life”.
Other Interesting Facts
He signed a contract with MGM Records and produced hit songs like “Caravan” which was composed by Juan Tizol and “Everything I Have Is Yours”.
He had a performance with American Jazz singer Sarah Vaughan during the Monterey Jazz Festival
Eckstine was part of the musical film “Rhythm in a Riff”, which starred R&B musician Lucky Milinder.
Awards
The hit singles “A Cottage for Sale” and “Prisoner of Love” featured on his album won a gold disc from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA)
Death
He died of a heart attack at age 79.
Billy Eckstine Rank
F.A.Q. about Billy Eckstine
When is his birthday?
Billy Eckstine's birthday is on July 8, 1914.
In how many days is his birthday?
Billy Eckstine's birthday is in 76 days
How old was Billy Eckstine when he died?
He was 78 years old.
When did he die?
He died in March 8, 1993.
How old would he be today?
Billy Eckstine would be 109 years old if he was alive today.
Where was Billy Eckstine from?
He was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S..