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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZBROWN, Cleo(b 8 Dec. '09, DeKalb MS; d 16 April '95, Denver CO: obits gave her age as 91) Pianist, singer. Father was a clergyman; moved to Chicago '19; heard on Chicago radio '30s, recorded for Decca '35--6 with rhythm section: 18 sides incl. 'Pinetop's Boogie Woogie' (before the boogie-woogie fad), 'The Stuff Is Here And It's Mellow', 'Me And My Wonderful One' (top 20 hit). She went to NYC to replace Fats Waller on CBS radio, taught piano, suffered from ill health '40--42, recorded '49 for Capitol, settled in Denver, qualified as a nurse '59. Her first-class technique and strong left hand, vocals in a sweet, sexy voice reminiscent of Ethel Waters were influential; fans incl. Bobby Short, Dave Brubeck, Teddy Wilson; she paved the way for pianist/singers Nellie Lutcher, Julia Lee, Una Mae Carlisle, Blossom Dearie, Shirley Horn. Appeared on Marian McPartland radio show '86. The Decca sides would make a good reissue. |