Kitty Bradshaw

Writer. Traveler. Creative.

In Memory of Lena Horne…

Lena Mary Calhoun Horne (June 30, 1917 – May 9, 2010) , Brooklyn, New York)

I am a little lost for words over her death.  For those of you that don’t know I am a HUGE fan of classic movies.  It is rare to see women of color in classic movies as a leading ladies.  Lena Horne was the first Black Woman to have a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, the most prestigious studio in the world at that time.  As far as I could remember, it was always a rare treat to see Lena Horne or Dorothy Dandridge films come on because I knew I would see them maybe once out of five hundred or so movies.  Every time I see Stormy Weather, it takes me back to as place as a child… I can remember the first time I ever saw that movie.  My heart wants to be broken over her death… but I know she led a full life.  It will be hard to let go over someone who symbolizes my love for classic movies.

RIP Lena Horne *sighs*  A true Screen Goddess…

Note: If you guys have a chance… please read the book:

Bright Boulevards, Bold Dreams: The Story of Black Hollywood

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2 Comments

  1. LexiB May 10, 2010

    It is truly a shock to hear about her passing.
    I hope the Lena Horne story comes to fruition now.

  2. Howard May 10, 2010

    Just an amazing talent, one who stood the test of time, from the 30s and 40s to an amazing Broadway show in the 80s and then some. A gifted vocalist, one who managed to maintain her gift well into her 60s, a star whose light will shine for many more years. Such a loss, but what a joy she shared that talent for so long. Rest in peace, Miss Horne.

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