Legendary Jazz Singer Dame Cleo Laine Passes Away at 97

Dame Cleo Laine, the renowned British jazz singer known for her powerful voice and diverse musical repertoire, has passed away at the age of 97. Throughout her long and illustrious career, Dame Cleo was the first British singer to win a Grammy Award in a jazz category and had the privilege of performing with legendary artists such as Ray Charles and Frank Sinatra.

Early Life and Career

Born Clementina Dinah Campbell on October 28, 1927, in Southall, Middlesex, Dame Cleo’s early life was marked by hardship and struggle. Her father, Alex Campbell, a Jamaican veteran of World War I, worked sporadically as a laborer and sang on the streets to make ends meet. Her mother, Minnie Hitching, was a farmer’s daughter from Swindon who was disowned by her parents due to her interracial relationship. Despite the challenges, Dame Cleo’s parents encouraged her love of music, and she began singing at local community functions at the age of three.

Rise to Fame

Dame Cleo’s big break came in 1951 when she joined the Johnny Dankworth Seven, a prominent jazz group. Her unique voice and style quickly gained recognition, and she became a regular performer on the British jazz scene. In 1958, she married John Dankworth, and the couple formed a musical partnership that would last a lifetime. Together, they founded the Stables Arts Centre in Buckinghamshire, which aimed to make music accessible to all and break down genre barriers.

International Acclaim

Dame Cleo’s international career took off in 1972 with a tour of Australia, followed by a performance in the United States. Although her initial American appearance was met with a lukewarm response, she returned in 1973, invited by the legendary jazz musician Duke Ellington, and received rave reviews from critics. Her 1983 Grammy Award for the live recording of a concert at Carnegie Hall cemented her status as a global jazz icon.

Legacy and Personal Life

Throughout her life, Dame Cleo was recognized for her contributions to music, including an OBE in 1979 and a damehood in 1997. She continued to perform and record music well into her 90s, inspiring a new generation of musicians, including her granddaughter Emily, who began her own singing career in 2024. Dame Cleo’s legacy extends beyond her music, as she remained a warm and funny person who connected with her audience through her sparkling eyes and spontaneous laughter.

Remembering a Legend

The news of Dame Cleo’s passing has been met with sadness from the music community, with tributes pouring in from fans, musicians, and colleagues. David Meadowcroft, chairman of the Stables charity, remembered her as a "remarkable performer who was loved by audiences around the world" and praised her commitment to making music accessible to all. As the music world mourns the loss of this legendary singer, her unique talent and legacy will continue to inspire and influence generations to come.