Ruth Etting

Ruth Etting was an American singer and actress who rose to fame in the 1920s and 1930s, known for her distinctive voice, emotive delivery, and enduring popularity in the world of popular music. Here are some key facts about her:

1. Early Life and Career: Ruth Etting was born on November 23, 1896, in David City, Nebraska. She began her career as a teenager, performing in local talent shows and vaudeville acts. Etting's talent and charisma quickly caught the attention of audiences and industry insiders, leading to opportunities for her to perform in Chicago nightclubs and theaters.

2. Rise to Fame: Ruth Etting's breakthrough came in the late 1920s when she signed a recording contract with Columbia Records and began recording a series of successful singles. Her distinctive voice, characterized by its warm tone and intimate quality, resonated with listeners and made her a popular radio and recording artist. Etting's hits from this period include "Ten Cents a Dance", "Love Me or Leave Me", and "Button Up Your Overcoat".

3. Film and Theater Career: In addition to her success as a recording artist, Ruth Etting also appeared in several films and stage productions during the 1930s and 1940s. She made her film debut in the musical comedy "A Modern Cinderella" (1932) and went on to star in films such as "Roman Scandals" (1933) and "Gift of Gab" (1934). Etting also performed on Broadway, earning acclaim for her roles in musicals like "Ziegfeld Follies of 1931" and "Take a Chance".

4. Personal Life and Controversy: Ruth Etting's personal life was marked by both professional success and personal turmoil. She was married to gangster Martin "Moe the Gimp" Snyder, who managed her career and exerted control over her personal and professional affairs. Etting's relationship with Snyder was tumultuous, and she ultimately divorced him in 1937 after enduring years of abuse. The story of their marriage was later dramatized in the biographical film "Love Me or Leave Me" (1955), starring Doris Day as Etting.

5. Enduring Legacy: Despite the challenges she faced in her personal life, Ruth Etting's legacy as a pioneering vocalist and entertainer endures. Her recordings continue to be celebrated for their timeless beauty and emotional depth, and her influence can be heard in the work of artists across generations. Etting's contributions to popular music have earned her a place in the pantheon of great American singers, and she remains a beloved figure in the history of popular music.