Introduction
Rosemary Clooney was an American singer and actress who rose to fame in the 1950s with hits like “Come On-a My House” and “Mambo Italiano”. She had a career that spanned over five decades and left a lasting legacy in the music industry. In this blog post, we will delve into her bio, songs, and legacy.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Family
Rosemary Clooney was born on May 23, 1928, in Maysville, Kentucky. She was the daughter of Andrew Joseph Clooney and Frances Marie Guilfoyle. Her father was a former tobacco farmer who became a semi-professional musician, while her mother was a homemaker. Rosemary was the youngest of five children and showed an early interest in singing.
Early Career
Rosemary’s career began in the late 1940s when she and her sister Betty started singing as a duo on Cincinnati radio station WLW. They were soon discovered by bandleader Tony Pastor and began touring with his orchestra. Rosemary then signed a solo contract with Columbia Records and released her first hit, “Come On-a My House,” in 1951.
Music Career
Major Hits
During the 1950s, Rosemary had several major hits, including “Mambo Italiano,” “Hey There,” and “This Ole House.” She also had success on television, hosting her own variety show, “The Rosemary Clooney Show,” in 1956. In the 1960s, she continued to record and perform, but her popularity began to wane.
Comeback and Later Career
Rosemary had a comeback in the 1970s when she recorded an album with Bing Crosby, “That’s What Life Is All About,” which earned her a Grammy nomination. She also appeared in the movie “White Christmas” with Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. In the 1980s, she continued to record and perform, collaborating with artists like Michael Feinstein and the Concord Jazz All-Stars.
Legacy
Influence on Music
Rosemary Clooney’s influence on music is undeniable. She was a pioneer of the pop-jazz genre and helped pave the way for female singers in the industry. Her music continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Rosemary was married twice and had five children. She struggled with addiction and mental health issues throughout her life but was able to overcome them. She also dedicated much of her time to philanthropy, supporting causes like the Betty Ford Center and the American Lung Association.
Legacy and Honors
After her death in 2002, Rosemary Clooney was posthumously inducted into the Kentucky Women Remembered exhibit and the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame. She also received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Society of Singers in 1999 and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2002.
Conclusion
Rosemary Clooney’s career and legacy are a testament to her talent and dedication to music. Her music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world, and her impact on the industry will never be forgotten.
FAQ
Who was Rosemary Clooney?
Rosemary Clooney was an American singer and actress who rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s. She was born on May 23, 1928, in Maysville, Kentucky, and died on June 29, 2002, in Beverly Hills, California.
What were some of Rosemary Clooney’s most famous songs?
Some of Rosemary Clooney’s most famous songs include “Come On-a My House,” “Mambo Italiano,” “Tenderly,” “This Ole House,” and “Hey There.”
What was Rosemary Clooney’s legacy?
Rosemary Clooney’s legacy includes her contributions to the Great American Songbook and her impact on the music industry. She was also a mentor to many young artists and a humanitarian who supported various causes, including the arts and mental health.
What movies did Rosemary Clooney appear in?
Rosemary Clooney appeared in several movies, including “White Christmas,” “The Stars Are Singing,” “Red Garters,” and “Here Come the Girls.”
What was Rosemary Clooney’s personal life like?
Rosemary Clooney was married twice and had five children. She struggled with addiction and mental health issues throughout her life but eventually sought treatment and became an advocate for mental health awareness.
