- Born
- 8 December 1925, New York, New York, United States
- First work
- 1933: Rufus Jones for President
- Peak
- 1955 to 1966 (estimated)
- Last work
- 1989: Tap
- Died
- 16 May 1990, Beverly Hills, United States; aged 64; illness
Sammy Davis Jr.
Music: singer, dancer, actor, comedian, United States
Sammy Davis Jr. was an American entertainer renowned for his remarkable range as a vocalist, tap dancer, actor, and multi-instrumentalist. Born in New York City in 1925, he grew up performing on the vaudeville circuit with the Will Mastin Trio before developing a dynamic solo career in the 1950s. Known for his showmanship and energy, he achieved broad acclaim on Broadway, in Hollywood productions, and on the Las Vegas stage as an integral part of the Rat Pack. He broke critical racial barriers across American show business during the mid-twentieth century. Following decades of relentless touring, Davis died at his home in Beverly Hills in 1990.
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Signature works
- Porgy and Bess 1959
- Ocean's 11 1960
- Sweet Charity 1969
- The Candy Man 1972
- Tap 1989
Honours
- Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, 2001
- Kennedy Center Honors, 1987
- Spingarn Medal, 1968
Groups: Will Mastin Trio, Rat Pack.