Lena Horne | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : April 16, 2025

Who is Lena Horne?

Lena Horne was a renowned singer, actress, and civil rights activist, celebrated as one of the foremost African American performers of her time. Born on June 30, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York, Horne grew up in a mixed heritage family, which influenced her artistic journey. She began her career at the age of 16, performing at the iconic Cotton Club in Harlem and swiftly moved on to Broadway, where she showcased her remarkable singing talent. Throughout her career, she signed with MGM Studios, becoming a staple in films like "Cabin in the Sky" and "Stormy Weather," where her stunning performances made a lasting impact in Hollywood.

Horne was not only a pioneer in entertainment but also a staunch advocate for civil rights, frequently speaking out against racial inequality. She challenged Hollywood's discriminatory practices by refusing to accept roles that perpetuated stereotypes of African American women. Despite facing severe industry backlash during the McCarthy era, which led to her temporary blacklisting, Horne continued to perform and promote civil rights through her music and activism. Her remarkable comeback in the 1980s with the acclaimed show "Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music" reaffirmed her status as a cultural icon, earning several awards and cementing her legacy in both music and activism.

Early Life and Education

Lena Mary Calhoun Horne was born on June 30, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York, to a family with a rich, mixed heritage that included African American, European American, and Native American roots. Her father, a banker and professional gambler, and her mother, an actress, separated when Lena was just three years old. This led her to spend her early childhood living with her grandparents, while her mother traversed the country with various theater troupes. Despite the instability, Horne's early exposure to the performing arts significantly influenced her future career, leading her to embrace music and performance as intrinsic aspects of her identity.

By the age of 16, Horne took a bold step in pursuit of her dreams by dropping out of school to perform at the legendary Cotton Club in Harlem. This marked the beginning of her professional journey in the entertainment industry. Her first major break came when she made her Broadway debut in the 1934 production "Dance With Your Gods." This early experience on stage paved the way for her to join Noble Sissle & His Orchestra as a singer and later, to perform in the Broadway musical revue "Lew Leslie's Blackbirds of 1939." These formative years not only shaped Horne’s skills as a performer but also set the stage for her later successes as a singer and actress in Hollywood and beyond.

Career Start at the Cotton Club

Lena Horne's illustrious career began in the vibrant atmosphere of the Cotton Club in Harlem, where she made her mark as a talented young performer. At just 16 years old, she dropped out of school to pursue her passion for music, captivating audiences with her stunning vocal ability and stage presence. The Cotton Club, known for showcasing African American talent during a time of racial segregation, provided Horne with exposure to influential figures in the entertainment industry. It was here that she gained invaluable experience and honed her craft, setting the foundation for her future success in both music and film.

Following her time at the Cotton Club, Horne made her Broadway debut in the 1934 production "Dance With Your Gods." This performance opened doors for her and led to her joining Noble Sissle & His Orchestra, where she initially performed under the name Helena Horne. Her rise in the entertainment world continued with notable roles in Broadway's "Lew Leslie's Blackbirds of 1939" and her collaboration with the Charlie Barnet Orchestra, who was ahead of his time in integrating his band. Despite facing racial barriers, Lena's determination and immense talent ensured her a prominent place in the entertainment landscape.

Film Success with "Cabin in the Sky" and "Stormy Weather"

Lena Horne's film career took a significant leap with her groundbreaking roles in "Cabin in the Sky" and "Stormy Weather." Released in 1943, both films featured predominantly African American casts and showcased Horne's extraordinary talent, marking her as a leading figure in Hollywood. "Cabin in the Sky," directed by Vincente Minnelli, presented a fantasy narrative with a focus on the struggles of an African American couple in a spiritual battle between good and evil. Horne's performance captivated audiences, bringing to life the film's poignant themes and emphasizing her powerful vocal abilities. This movie solidified her status as one of the top black performers of her era.

Following "Cabin in the Sky," Horne starred in "Stormy Weather," a musical that would become iconic in her career. The title song, which she performed with soul-stirring emotion, became her signature piece, often revisited throughout her life in live performances. This film not only highlighted her talents as a singer but also her charisma as an actress, setting a precedent for African American performers in Hollywood. Despite the constraints of the time, Horne’s roles in both films allowed her to defy racial stereotypes, paving the way for future generations of artists. Her contributions to these films remain celebrated, reflecting both her immense talent and her steadfast activism against racial discrimination in the entertainment industry.

Later Career Highlights and Activism

Lena Horne's later career was marked by a powerful return to the Broadway stage with her acclaimed one-woman show, "Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music," which debuted in 1981. The production showcased her remarkable talents and provided a deeply personal look at her life, struggles, and triumphs. It ran for 14 months on Broadway and toured extensively, during which it garnered numerous awards, including a special Tony Award and two Grammy Awards for its soundtrack. Horne's ability to blend her singing and acting with poignant storytelling resonated with audiences, reinvigorating her career and cementing her legacy as a significant cultural figure.

Beyond her artistic achievements, Lena Horne was a committed civil rights activist. She used her platform to advocate for racial equality, participating in significant events, including the 1963 March on Washington. Horne's activism extended to performing at rallies for organizations such as the NAACP and the National Council for Negro Women. Her courage in challenging racial boundaries within the entertainment industry laid the groundwork for future generations of African American performers. Horne's commitment to civil rights and her portrayal of strong, dignified characters helped shift public perceptions and fight against systemic racism, making her a trailblazer in both art and activism.

Personal Life: Married to Louis Jones and Lennie Hayton, Children

Lena Horne's personal life was marked by two significant marriages that shaped her experiences both professionally and personally. Her first marriage was to Louis Jones, which lasted from 1937 to 1944. The couple had two children together, a daughter, Gail, and a son, Edwin. Horne's commitment to her family was evident, and her children often accompanied her during her career at various performances and events. However, despite their efforts to maintain a family unit, the marriage ended in divorce, a decision that impacted Horne's life as a young mother striving for success in a demanding industry.

In December 1947, Lena Horne married Lennie Hayton, a white bandleader, in a private ceremony in Paris. Their marriage was kept secret for three years due to the pervasive racial prejudices of the time. The challenges of interracial marriage added complexity to their relationship, though they shared a deep bond and mutual respect for each other’s careers. Horne and Hayton faced numerous obstacles over the years, leading to their separation in the 1960s. Despite this, they remained legally married until Horne's death, showcasing the complexities and endurance of their love amidst societal challenges.

Net Worth and Earning: Notable Earnings

Lena Horne's lasting impact in the entertainment industry is reflected not just in her artistry but also in her notable earnings over the decades. Renowned as one of the highest-paid Black entertainers of her time, she signed a lucrative seven-year contract with MGM, which underscored her value within Hollywood. During her peak, particularly after her performances at prestigious venues such as the Savoy-Plaza Hotel, she became a household name and was featured prominently in Life magazine, solidifying her financial success and status as a cultural icon. Moreover, her pioneering work in film and music challenged racial stereotypes, paving the way for future generations of artists.

Her return to the limelight in the "80s through her celebrated one-woman show, "Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music," earned her both critical acclaim and financial rewards, with the production enjoying a 14-month run on Broadway. The show's soundtrack garnered multiple Grammy awards, contributing significantly to her net worth. Horne's album sales, including her hit projects like "It's Love" and "Stormy Weather," further augmented her earnings. Her activism and collaborations also provided additional avenues for income, demonstrating that her influence extended well beyond the stage and screen.

FAQs

What was Lena Horne known for?

Lena Horne was a celebrated singer, actress, and civil rights activist, recognized as one of the top African American performers during her time. She gained fame for her powerful voice and elegance, particularly through iconic performances in films like 'Cabin in the Sky" and "Stormy Weather." Her refusal to play stereotypical roles for African American women highlighted her commitment to challenging racial boundaries in the entertainment industry.

What were some key milestones in Lena Horne's early life?

Born on June 30, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York, Horne experienced a turbulent childhood as her parents separated when she was young. She began her career at the age of 16, performing at the Cotton Club in Harlem. Her Broadway debut came in 1934, and she subsequently joined various musical groups, including Noble Sissle & His Orchestra and the Charlie Barnet Orchestra, making significant strides in a predominantly white industry.

How did Lena Horne impact the film industry?

Lena Horne made a significant impact in the film industry by breaking racial barriers and demanding better roles for African Americans. After signing with MGM in the 1940s, she fought against being typecast in domestic roles, which were common for Black actresses at that time. Her performances in films like "Cabin in the Sky" and "Stormy Weather" showcased her talent while challenging societal norms.

What role did Lena Horne play in the Civil Rights Movement?

Horne was an outspoken advocate for civil rights, using her platform to address racial discrimination. She performed at various rallies, supported the NAACP, and participated in the 1963 March on Washington. Her activism helped raise awareness about the struggles of African Americans and underscored the need for equality in the arts.

What was Lena Horne's signature song?

Horne's signature song was the title track from the film "Stormy Weather," which she performed multiple times throughout her career. The song became synonymous with her legacy and showcased her powerful vocal abilities, making her performances unforgettable.

What achievements did Lena Horne garner later in life?

In 1981, Horne made a critically acclaimed return to Broadway with her one-woman show "Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music," which won her multiple awards, including a special Tony Award and two Grammys. She continued performing into her later years, receiving praise for her contributions to music and civil rights up until her passing in 2010.

What was Lena Horne's legacy?

Lena Horne left a lasting legacy as a pioneer for African Americans in entertainment. She broke down barriers, challenged racist stereotypes, and became an iconic figure whose contributions to film and music remain influential. Her life story inspires future generations to stand against injustice and pursue their dreams, regardless of societal constraints.