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Mahalia Jackson |
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Mahalia Jackson was born on
October 26, 1911 in New Orleans, Louisiana. She was raised in the church
and was part of the church choir. At a young age, Miss Jackson knew she
was going to be successful . But she would never show her talent to the
show business. While growing up Miss Jackson avoided negative things.
Mahalia also suffered in her life. Jim Crow laws were a major issue in
southern states. She had to deal with prejudice while she was in school.
A major activist in her life was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Not only because he was a Baptist but because he spoke of peace and freedom for all races. At most of Dr. King's speeches / rallies she sang "Amazing Grace" and many other up lifting songs. One day a record producer came to her church and ask Mahalia to sing for his record company. First, she said no because she only wanted to sing for the Lord. But, the next day she said okay. Her first hit was "Lift Every Voice And Sing" edited in 1956. Many landmarks are named after her such as our school and our glee club. But we are sad to write that Ms. Jackson passed from high-blood pressure. Till this day people still sing her songs! |
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References: http://ralphbunche.rbs.edu/district/ps123/mahalia.html |
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constructed by: Ashley Posey |
