Jo Stafford

Date of Birth: November 12, 1917

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: July 16, 2008

Biography

Jo Stafford was an American singer known for her versatility in various genres including traditional pop, jazz, and folk music. Born on November 12, 1917, in Coalinga, California, Stafford’s career spanned several decades, beginning in the late 1930s and continuing until the mid-1970s. She first gained national attention as a member of the vocal group The Pied Pipers, who performed with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. Her smooth, clear voice and impeccable intonation made her a favorite among both listeners and fellow musicians. In the 1940s and 1950s, Stafford enjoyed a successful solo career, producing numerous hits such as “You Belong to Me,” “Make Love to Me,” and “Shrimp Boats.” She was one of the first artists to successfully transition from big band music to popular music, and her recordings were frequently featured on the Billboard charts. Stafford also had a successful radio and television career, appearing on shows such as “The Chesterfield Supper Club” and “The Jo Stafford Show.” Jo Stafford married Paul Weston, a prominent composer and arranger, in 1952. The couple often collaborated on musical projects and even created a successful comedy duo, Jonathan and Darlene Edwards, known for their deliberately off-key performances. Stafford’s contribution to music was recognized with a Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1998.

5 Interesting Facts about Jo Stafford

1. Jo Stafford was the first female solo artist to achieve a #1 hit on the UK Singles Chart.

2. She was awarded a Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1998.

3. Stafford was known for her comedic alter ego, Darlene Edwards, which she performed with her husband Paul Weston.

4. She was one of the first artists to transition successfully from big band music to pop music.

5. Jo Stafford was a trained opera singer but chose to pursue popular music instead.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jo Stafford

1. “I just sing what I like to sing.”

2. “I never really liked being in the limelight.”

3. “Music is something that should speak for itself, straight from the heart.”

4. “Singing with the Pied Pipers was like being in a family.”

5. “The most important thing in music is sincerity.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

$10 million (estimated at the peak of her career)

Children

Jo Stafford and Paul Weston had two children: Tim Weston and Amy Weston. Tim followed in his parents’ footsteps and became involved in the music industry, while Amy chose to pursue a career outside of entertainment.