Al Jolson was a Lithuanian-born American singer, comedian, and actor who was dubbed "The World's Greatest Entertainer" during his heyday. Born on May 26, 1886, in the Russian Empire, which is now part of Lithuania, Jolson emigrated to America at the age of five with his Jewish parents.
As a performer, Jolson was known for his brash and extroverted style, which was characterized by his shamelessly sentimental and melodramatic approach. He popularized many songs and influenced numerous well-known singers, including Bing Crosby, Judy Garland, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Bob Dylan.
Jolson's impact on the entertainment industry was immense. He was America's most famous and highest-paid entertainer in the 1930s, with nine sell-out Winter Garden shows, over 80 hit records, and 16 national and international tours. He also starred in a series of successful musical films throughout the 1930s, and his stardom returned with the 1946 Oscar-winning biographical film, The Jolson Story.
In addition to his entertainment career, Jolson was a strong advocate for racial equality. He was known for fighting against anti-black discrimination on Broadway and promoting the work of African-American performers, playwrights, and songwriters. His theatrics and promotion of equality helped pave the way for many black performers, including Cab Calloway, Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Fats Waller, and Ethel Waters.
Throughout his career, Jolson performed in blackface makeup, which was a theatrical convention at the time. He was credited with single-handedly introducing African-American music to white audiences, and his unique style of singing black music helped to popularize genres such as jazz and blues.
Jolson's legacy extends beyond his entertainment career. He was a true pioneer in the fight for racial equality, and his advocacy helped to pave the way for future generations of performers. Despite his passing in 1950, Jolson's impact on the entertainment industry and his commitment to racial equality continue to be felt today.
