Della Reese: The Life And Legacy Of An Iconic Entertainer

Della Reese was not just a remarkable singer and actress, but a symbol of resilience and talent in the entertainment industry. Born on July 6, 1931, Della's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a beloved figure is an inspiring tale of hard work and dedication. This article delves into her life, career, and the lasting impact she has made on both her fans and the industry.

Della Reese's career spanned over six decades, during which she achieved great success in music, television, and film. She was known for her powerful voice and charismatic presence, captivating audiences with her performances. Throughout her life, she faced numerous challenges, yet she emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration for many, especially within the African American community.

In this comprehensive biography, we will explore the key milestones of Della Reese's life, from her early years to her rise to stardom, her achievements, and her legacy. We aim to provide a thorough understanding of not only her career but also the values she embodied as a performer and a person.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Della Reese
• Early Life and Background
• Music Career
• Television Success
• Film Appearances
• Personal Life
• Awards and Honors
• Legacy and Impact

Biography of Della Reese

Early Life and Background

Della Reese was born into a large family in Detroit, Michigan. The daughter of a minister and a homemaker, Della was raised in a religious environment that emphasized the importance of faith and hard work. From a young age, she demonstrated an affinity for music, often singing in church and local events. Her early experiences shaped her passion for performing and laid the foundation for her future career.

Music Career

Della Reese began her music career in the 1950s, quickly gaining recognition for her unique blend of gospel, jazz, and pop music. Her powerful voice and emotive singing style captivated audiences, leading to her first big break with the hit song "Don't You Know?" in 1959, which reached the top of the charts.

• Her music career was marked by several chart-topping singles.
• She released numerous albums, showcasing her versatility as a performer.
• Della was known for her collaborations with other artists, further establishing her presence in the music industry.

Television Success

In addition to her music career, Della Reese made a significant impact on television. She starred in her own variety show, "The Della Reese Show," which aired in the late 1960s. The show was notable for featuring a diverse cast and addressing social issues of the time.

Film Appearances

Della Reese also appeared in several films, showcasing her acting talent alongside her musical abilities. Notable films include "The Jazz Singer" (1980) and "Touched by an Angel" (1994-2003), where she played the role of Tess, an angel guiding others through their struggles.

Personal Life

Della Reese faced her share of personal challenges, including a battle with diabetes. Despite these struggles, she remained positive and continued to inspire others with her resilience. She was married to musician and producer, Franklin Lett, and had one child, a daughter named Deloreese.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her illustrious career, Della Reese received numerous awards and accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Her contributions to music and television earned her recognition as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.

• NAACP Image Awards
• Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress
• Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

Legacy and Impact

Della Reese's legacy extends far beyond her entertainment career. She was a mentor to many young artists and an advocate for social justice. Her impact on the music and television industries continues to be felt today, inspiring new generations of performers.

In conclusion, Della Reese was an extraordinary talent whose contributions to the arts will never be forgotten. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a beloved figure in entertainment serves as a testament to her talent, resilience, and dedication. We encourage readers to share their thoughts in the comments below or explore more articles that celebrate the lives and legacies of iconic entertainers.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Della Reese. We hope you found this article informative and inspiring. Stay tuned for more stories that highlight the incredible lives of entertainers who have shaped our culture.