Peggy Lee

Peggy Lee, born as Norma Deloris Egstrom, came into the world on May 26, 1920, in Jamestown, North Dakota. Her childhood was challenging, marred by poverty and an abusive stepmother, which she often said helped to form her resilient and innovative spirit. She went on to become a celebrated jazz and pop singer, songwriter, and actress, influencing many and leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.

In 1941, Peggy Lee made her first major mark on the music scene when she began singing with Benny Goodman and his orchestra. Her performance prowess was soon recognized, and she became a breakout star. It was with Goodman that she recorded her first big hit, "Somebody Else Is Taking My Place." This exposure launched her long illustrious career as a performer of remarkable depth and charisma.

On July 27, 1943, Peggy Lee released one of her most enduring hit singles, "Why Don't You Do Right?", with Benny Goodman's Orchestra. This song sold over one million copies and brought Peggy Lee lasting fame. It established her as a notable jazz singer of her era and continues to be one of the most iconic songs associated with her, showcasing her sultry voice and the emotive range that characterized her performances.

Peggy Lee married guitarist Dave Barbour on November 28, 1948. Barbour, a talented musician whom she met while working with Benny Goodman, became Lee's colleague and collaborator in both her personal and professional life. Together, they worked on several musical projects where Barbour contributed his expertise on the guitar, helping to further develop Lee's distinctive sound and style that would define much of her career in the late 1940s and early 1950s.

In April 1958, Peggy Lee recorded and released one of her most signature songs, "Fever." This song became a major hit, renowned for its minimalist arrangement and rhythmic beat, featuring Lee’s captivating vocal styling. Peggy Lee's version became an instant classic and is often considered the definitive rendition of the song, showcasing her ability to reinvent and breathe new life into music, a testament to her creative brilliance.

On November 30, 1969, Peggy Lee performed at the White House at the request of President Richard Nixon. This performance was one of the highlights of Lee’s career, illustrating her status as a significant figure in American music. Her ability to captivate audiences, even in high-profile settings, was a testament to her exceptional talent and widespread appeal that transcended the era's typical music venues.

Peggy Lee won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary (R&R) Vocal Performance, Female, for her hit single "Is That All There Is?" The song, released in 1969 and featuring an existential narrative, became one of Lee’s best-known recordings. Her performance won critical acclaim for its nuanced and sardonic delivery, helping cement her reputation as a pioneering artist who could weave complex emotions into her songs.

In 1979, Peggy Lee was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Throughout her career, Lee was not only a performer but also an accomplished songwriter, contributing to the American music repertoire with classics that combined her love of jazz and popular music. This induction recognized her formidable talents and her contributions to the craft of songwriting, highlighting her influence on countless artists across generations.

Peggy Lee passed away on January 21, 2002, at the age of 81, in Bel Air, California. Known for her sultry voice and unique ability to blend pop, jazz, and blues, she left behind a legacy of innovation and artistic excellence. Her death marked the end of an era for many music fans and artists around the world who admired her style and contributions to music. Her influence continues to resonate in contemporary music culture.

May 26, 2020, marked the 100th anniversary of Peggy Lee's birth, celebrated by fans and jazz enthusiasts worldwide. Tributes highlighted her enduring impact on music and popular culture. This milestone brought renewed interest in her extensive catalog, with commemorative album reissues and special programs dedicated to her visionary artistry. The centennial was a testament to Lee’s lasting influence across multiple generations.