Lena Horne Documentary 1996

Lena Horne's 1996 PBS American Masters biography

[@SagesseNoir]

"You want to take me to bed, but you won't let me come through the front door"--how many of our sisters had to endure these indignities in those days.

A lot of women had to endure such indignities.

[@charlottecannon8094]

Geez. Knock it off. Im short, was a handicap child on Jerry Lewis Telethon from 8 mos to 11 years age, female and im mixed, and Jewish. Women in general have always been discriminated against, as have many others, whether physically handicaped, black, mixed, and other differences. Theres always someone who will discriminate and judge. Get over it. Its not our problem, its their ignorance.

@@charlottecannon8094 so true. All people get discriminated in one form or another.

[@charlottecannon8094]

@ - Yes. So True. Ty.

[@charlottecannon8094]

@ - Thank you, but I never let it stop me from thriving, it made me stronger, more understanding, and I perceveered. The legs, arm and hand braces came off at 11.5 years of age, I was the fastest girl in our girls hs track, was a hs cheerleader, a hs majorette, in theatre, and more. Jerry was wonderful, very kind. We always collected money too for the telethons, then I'd turn it in, was on every telethon he sponsored. Front and center every year, huge smile so proud to help go door to door and collect money for it. It never hendered me, ever. It made me try harder. And it made me a better person. . A far more compassionate person. I still climbed trees, roller skated, swam, rolled down hills in old tires, went snow sledding. I took ballet, jazz and tap lessons which helped a lot. I also got to remove my braces and modeled for Sears and Pennys for 8 of those years during the run way modeling. Im still handicap, but never collected a penny for being disabled, ever. They told my parents Id never walk normal, id never do any extra curricular activities in school, that Id never use my right arm and hand. But you know, they were wrong. Youd never know it by looking at me now. Sure all the kids at school from K through 12th grade all knew me, they, the whole school knew. But. I would do it all over again. Thank you, for your compassion and help. Im blessed, in abundance. Some of the kids never did get to live the life I have lived. Im super blessed. Thanks to God, and my fantastic Doctor , Dr. Pauletta at Cardinal Glennon, and the amazing nurses, and to my family who let me try, let me fall down, let me get back up and keep trying, my family who always inspired me.

[@WaterFlame957]

My mom worked for Sesame Street years ago and when I was really young my mom got a picture of Lena holding me when she came to Sesame Street. 😍😍😍

[@arnoldamaral7406]

WaterFlame957 how nice for you! I never really liked her. Her voice was nothing. She was not Billie Holiday or Sarah Vaughan or mums madeley on a good day. I can't tell you why I don't like her it would offend too many people. And I don't get down like that. My spiritual son loves her. I just sent him the documentary. His name is Bradley Hensley he's 47 years old. My wife and I are 67 years old. I need to go now. Sincerely Arnold Bourbon Amaral

[@sabrinanbelle]

That was YOU! 😮❤️❤️❤️ So cool....

[@c.calliecoleman1531]

Wow. Now you're a star lol.If I were you I would have a big blown up picture made of it, and hang on my living room wall. God broke the mold when he made her. Never seen anyone before or after her. Just one word to describe her, BEAUTIFUL.

[@NaLovePHAT4Life]

WOW I'm sure you treasure that.

[@katieosborn9345]

So AWESOME!!!!

[@sensimania]

She was 79yrs old when this bio was made! 😮 She aged very well!

[@maya8443]

I noticed that women of color aged gracefully compared to our white counterparts. I think that besides the genes it has to do with life styles the way one takes care of our bodies when young. You're right Lina looks great for her age.

[@tremicahenry8782]

Lawwd

[@danydazed4314]

As Anthony Mackie said ‘black don’t crack’ Lena Horne stunner

[@waynej2608]

Wow, I knew that Lena was beautiful, but almost forgot how beautiful she remained into her older years. What an elegant beauty she was, and what amazing pipes! A treat for the eyes and ears. 😍

[@roxiet7016]

Wayne J ...🎉✨.. Yupp.. beautifully stated 💫😑✨

[@marycahill546]

I like the way it's Lena telling her own story.

[@UncommonWoman1611]

I concur, I wish they all would tell their story before they die!!! Now that would be black history!!!

[@beb5407]

Yes her own words 🕯️🆓

[@theresadandrea2782]

0p0

[@samiam74]

If her beauty didn't take your breath away, her voice would.

[@MiamiPush2theLimit]

I love her vibrato 🙌🏾

[@samiam74]

@@MiamiPush2theLimit absolutely! Hands down, amazing vibrato!!

[@MOTHATALKS]

Are you jewish

[@samiam74]

@@MOTHATALKS no, I'm not. I'm curious what that has to do with my comment on this post.

[@c.calliecoleman1531]

I absolutely love Lena Horne. I think God placed her here, so we could see what a really beautiful woman looked like, not just outward besuty, but within, too. It's kind of sad to hear her singing some blues songs like Stormy Weather because you can tell she feel those sad feelings. She must have loved a man deep, to sing like that, and that's a beautiful thing. She's been all around the world, in all walks of life, and still holds her care, and love for her black race. That's probably what I love best about her, she never forgot where she came from. She didn't lose herself. She's definitely a bonafide role model. A queen.🌷🌷🌷

[@titusdiodoros1876]

They kill me when they keep saying "Oh yeah she couldn't sing a lick during the cafe days" but they play record and she sounds amazing. Not only is she good but she's like better then half the pop singers today

[@memoir02]

Exactly! I'm like "Her voice is beautiful! What are you all listening to?"

[@fumikoadullaha449]

Singers of her Era had to be superb Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn as competition, many jazz artists were also incomparable piano players Hazel Scott could play two pianos at the same time while singing! Mrs Lena Horne was just being honest and humble ...she will always have her place in history!

[@titusdiodoros1876]

good point about Hazel Scott, I guess a skill set like that would have you questioning your abilities.

[@kidmack1121]

I've tried and tried to hear what she was doing "wrong" to get that reputation. I can't hear whatever it was. I think she was unique. Maybe latching on to vibrato too early and too often? But c'mon! she was GREAT!

[@YeshuaLove0722]

She blows all of them out of the water this was the era of class now days it’s trash and cursing 🤮

[@Nanbebe7]

Very brave woman. She didn't compromise her dignity for a check.

[@princesslilchief8282]

Yes she did when she married that white man!....

[@nickyannajones]

🌸

[@stevenhosea4849]

NanTheGoldChild Goodness. Hi. Yes. Good. Bye

[@cocosheabuttarosemaryqueen9204]

" I married him for selfish reasons" "I knew a white man could get me into places a black man couldn't" "we was successful" -Lena Horne

[@Missbrittanyxxo]

@@princesslilchief8282 Hahahaha

[@angelajohnson2684]

A woman of beauty, class and elegance.

[@ginabackes3465]

And still the most beautiful woman that ever lived.....then ..now...forever...

[@ginabackes3465]

Lena ....jaqaline baker...billie holiday

[@charray6867]

YESSSS!

[@hestergreen2031]

Definitely so. Very true.

[@sandraatkins2539]

@@ginabackes3465 Add the beautiful, illustrious .s Dorothy Dandridge.

[@thisislaflaretv5250]

You ran a great race. Sister. Rest among the stars

[@MsDisneylandlover]

Pray she and her family knew the lord. ❤

[@thisislaflaretv5250]

@@MsDisneylandlover why is that

[@TheRealEvvonne]

She was a beautiful classy black woman. People tried to pass her off as white or Latin but I like how she always spoke up and said "I AM BLACK".

[@AnastasiaLUVSU]

The Real Evvonne Because she had too, she's mixed. we're not living in jim crow times anymore.

[@aaronmichael9788]

The Real Evvonne why are people mad shes black? being black is more than just your genetic makeup. it is an experience! my grandmother looked "white" but knew she was black and was proud of it. its so funny how fame makes people want black people to be white or "mixed" all of sudden. ahe was a black movie star, a black legend. how dare some of y'all tell other people she isn't black when she considered herself BLACK

[@AnastasiaLUVSU]

Aaron Michael Please be quiet. I'm tired of mixed breeds claiming black. No way in hell someone can look European and not be European or heavily mixed with it. like your grandmother.

[@PsychicMedium4747]

So what....she was still mixed race....regardless of what she called herself...she looked latin because many latins are mixed who just speak a different white language known as Spanish. If you need help in knowing what black features are let Crissie school you. kzbin.info/www/bejne/o53dlop4obmdn9E

[@PsychicMedium4747]

Both of her parents were mixed race....do you know anything about genetics? If her parents were not mixed race...then where did she get her white features from...the moon? OMG...please sit down...you act like mixed people do not have children with other mixed people for generations. She was NOT a black woman...she was a mixed race woman of white and black ancestry. Show me a black subsaharan african with her features? Come on..... Of course there are blacks 100%...this is for STARTERS....SHOW ME DNA PROOF that a light skinned person can be black with soft curly hair and aquiline features(DO NOT INCLUDE BLEACHERS, WAAREDENBURGE SYNDROME and ALBINISM). Black people DO NOT look like mixed people.... I rely on empirical research... Black Subsaharan blacks with no admixture are NOT light skinned people NOR do they have our features. EAST Africans are a completely different situation....they are closer to the middle east countries...and guess what? They have a LONG history of being mixed with Arabians which explains their mixed race features....and guess what? It also shows up in their DNA. Examples... Watch these DNA results....... EAST AFRICANS ANCESTRY DNA RESULTS Ethiopian, Somalians, and Eritreans are mixed race Africans...their DNA/cranial bone structure is closer to European according to anthropologists than black subsaharan people. kzbin.info/www/bejne/apKai2uHaZiWnNk Ethiopian DNA results (mixed with ARABS) kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zp3WfH6ciMaVqrc Ethiopian DNA results (mixed with ARABS) kzbin.info/www/bejne/kITbfpmHps2LprM Somalian DNA results.. (mixed with ARABS) kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZ-reGeFnpZke7s Somalian DNA results.. (mixed with ARABS) kzbin.info/www/bejne/gKfblYmnbL-qfLc Somalian DNA results (mixed with ARABS ) WESTERN SUBSAHARAN ANCESTRY DNA RESULTS(Look at the difference in facial features compared to the mixed race EAST AFRICANS). Most are very dark skinned, tight coiled hair, and broad facial features. None have features of a mixed person. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXKphpuPbqubbdk Pure Black African DNA results(100% pure black African-non-mixed) kzbin.info/www/bejne/jmiQdmioYpWNsNmEure black African DNA results (100% pure black African-non-mixed) 2558.55 kzbin.info/www/bejne/op63mWCkr82VarM (100% pure black African-non-mixed)) Addendum part 2: Khoisan Tribes are MIXED research validates it...READ below!!!!! RESEARCH confirms it www.newscientist.com/.../dn24988-humanitys.../ Side Note: Genes DO NOT expire like food. Being mixed is not just being biracial but ALSO two parents that are biracial or multigenerational mixed. When mixed people have children with mixed people for generations that mixture is maintained....so this is WHY you can have two siblings that look VERY different from one another because one may have inherited more white or black from one or both parents while the other sibling did not. You should have learned about the punnett square in bio 101. Black subsaharan are NOT light skinned people. Mixed race causes light skin. You inherit ONLY 50% from each parent. Example, if mom is 90% black 10% white and dad is 90%black and 10% white...a child could inherit ALL white genes from BOTH parents totally 20% and 80% black...which may give the child lighter skin...because of the combo from both parents. Light skin is not a black trait. One or both of your parents have nonblack ancestry. Get an ancestry DNA test. Your problems will be solved. So many are poorly educated about genetics...this is why kids grow up misinformed because lies are spread and internalized as facts when it is far from the truth.

[@amanteapasionado6836]

She was even beautiful in her old age

[@EvaAnika]

DEFINITELY. I remember being a little kid wondering when she was going to start looking old!

[@cj8803]

I agree. I couldn't stop staring.

[@angeleyes3396]

Even more beautiful in her older age imo

[@Alisha1686]

Yes she was

[@davisholman6518]

She was stunning - even her teeth! There were no veneers back then, ya know😁

[@catcall569]

I love the episode she played on Sanford and Son. A sad beginning but I love our history of never giving up. Thank you fore fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters for never giving up.

[@mefirstplease3676]

Happy 100th birthday to one of the Greastest Singer, performer, and people Rest in Peace Ms. Lena Horne

[@marlenemartin6302]

Amen 💐🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@koreydarceldrake3294]

For my dear Lena I know you hear I will keep you within 🙏❤️ for I can be the best I can be for properness in my own way I will stay in touch love you you will know of my name is Ronald Burton

[@fatimahakili6423]

This is sweet but she was born in 1917

[@mefirstplease3676]

Fatimah Crawford This was made years ago.

[@fatimahakili6423]

MeFirst please my apologies I did the math incorrectly for some reason, you are correct she would have been about 100 2-3 years ago when you made the comment

[@ryanmorton6193]

Lena Horne was one of the most beautiful woman in the world inside and out.

[@stevenhosea4849]

Ryan Morton Happens. Hi. Yes. Good. Bye

[@catherinelittle3095]

True

[@bonitahobbs2097]

@Smiles and the Twisted MD Lena was truly a VERY PROUD BLACK WOMAN!!!! HEAVILY INVESTED IN BLACK CIVIL RIGHTS!!!!! "DIDN'T PLAY"!♥️🌟♥️🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟SOOOOO. BELOVED AND SOO SHAKENLY' MISSED!!! Where have ALL the big star legends gone?!!!!!!!

[@sandraatkins2539]

@Smiles and the Twisted MD She was not more beautiful than Dorothy Dandridge.

[@Beth5171]

@Smiles and the Twisted MD You're for Lena Horne? While spelling her name "Lina"?!? Oh my.....how dreadfully embarrassing for you!

[@chocolatesilksworld6951]

I love watching documentary of black Hollywood legends hearing their stories is surreal because Ms.Lena lived amongst black royalties. From black and white picture to the millennial times she's lived a long prosperous life.

[@Missbrittanyxxo]

Not only was she truly beautiful, she had a wonderful voice. Such a shame they tried to downplay her voice yet she was wanted everywhere for her voice to be heard. I'm in awe of her. I can relate to her skin color and features, as I have been told numerous times I look Latina or I should appear Latina when it comes to productions, acting, etc. I was always proud to say I am black just like Lena did. Now I'm going to watch more of her music & movies, but man she went through a lot. Those times we're so frustrating and difficult but I'm glad Lena stayed true to herself.

[@wowso4]

Trust me they won’t giving any person of colour any chance back then. Whether you were Latina or not they saw you as coloured unless you were white.

[@bf1822]

MS. LENA HORNE WAS THE ORIGINAL QUEEN 🌹 🌹

[@willywonka8730]

God made each of us for a reason. He sent you to this earth with that reason in your heart. Just listen to it.

[@mdhbh]

Black people of this time had such grace and style. The women carried themselves with respect.

[@greenhornet8262]

mdhbh they still do

[@mdhbh]

@Green Hornet I don’t agree....

[@Blessed_Daye]

Yes, I love it. I love watching videos and movies and looking at pictures of black women during this time. They were so classy and beautiful.

[@mdhbh]

I wish I was born in that time

[@itsbritt9155]

mdhbh maybe you should move from your surroundings then .

[@marywilson6354]

Her voice speaking voice is so soothing and special love to her her talk

[@nikradik]

Sassy classy lady

[@rogerbrown5699]

I got so much respect for her it's not even funny

[@omarilacey9962]

I love how she says my own people.

[@othowarren6963]

@Michele Thomas 0l to p

[@deeliciousgrapes]

She isn't even black though, she was just as much white as she was black.

[@caliolivera4272]

How when both of her parents were black ? they show her parents in this video and yes they’re lighter skin but they were both black

[@craigmabry1392]

@@deeliciousgrapes wrong

[@MOTHATALKS]

Whites are my people glad we have an understanding N

[@rochellerector86]

She sang “Stormy Weather” the best! Great entertainer!

[@nonataylor2344]

God bless our Black people for all the struggles and indignity they had to go through. I appreciate them more than they'll ever know. There are never enough thank you's or words to say I love our ancestors for their strength and fortitude.

[@victoriousexotik_eurobornb3]

Stay in your lane!

[@cliftonhoward2656]

@@victoriousexotik_eurobornb3 DID JEW EAT?!?!?

[@cliftonhoward2656]

@@victoriousexotik_eurobornb3 I LOVE U

[@victoriousexotik_eurobornb3]

@@cliftonhoward2656 what are you talking about ?

[@cliftonhoward2656]

@@victoriousexotik_eurobornb3 I LOVE U SO MUCH, PLZ MY LOVE, LETS GO TO PARIS, AND HAVE A LOVELY TIME, MY DEAR

[@guywill7875]

Today's talent has Lena to thank for breaking down the barriers what a strong and courageous trail blazer

[@ariesk1001]

I’ve been a fan of Ms. Horne since I was a little boy. One of the major highlights of my life was getting to see her on Broadway and getting to meet her backstage. She was so gracious and kind and surprised that such a young boy knew of her and her music.

[@Tofindexpress]

What a beautiful women. I don't why they said she couldn't sing, she sounds really really amazing. A true performer.

[@alicegoodman4544]

Most people listen on house record players, you know how that would sound.

[@jeanettesdaughter]

She worked at it. Got better. Let her tell her story how she tells it. Standards were higher then. No auto tuned, no screaming, no stripping to the panties and shaking like an epileptic seizure, etc. You had to stand and deliver something besides sexual appeal. And she had that too! Watched the real housewives, love and hip hop, basketball wives, lately. See the difference.

[@lovesmerlot]

What a beautiful lady with not only with an amazing voice but such a beautiful soul. Nothing but love for this lady. R.I.P. dear angel.

[@cocodan6500]

She aged very well.

[@josephcalderon906]

+Coco dan Which is why she lived to ninety three.

[@charliefennell409]

Coco dan BLACK DON'T CRACK.

[@mohammedabdullah7413]

l

[@DSM578]

What a beautiful, honest, lovely talented, lady was Lena. Glad we can still see her on film.

[@robinjones710]

@@josephcalderon906 K

[@debaterofeverythingpresent2775]

Remember your humble beginings brothers and sisters for our roots reach down to the very core of the earth. It will not only keep you grounded but sustain whatever you build on it.

[@dottiewalton3776]

God Bless Vincent Minnelli for having the balls to do "Cabin in the Sky". It didn't make him very popular amongst his peers. He later gained respect and recognition.

[@brownin329]

It was a great film.

[@melthornton9264]

Absolutely!!! He caught hell for it too.

[@portiamatthews4299]

Lena Horne is a beautiful woman. May God rest her soul. RIP Lena

[@smithconnie07]

A black woman who knew she was black and wasn't trying to pass..."I ain't mad at ya, Lena Horne."

[@PsychicMedium4747]

She was a mixed race woman...how is she a black woman? What tribe does she look like? You sound ridiculous. She could have passed as white because she had substantial amount of white ancestry. She could have never passed for a black woman because no black woman looks like her. Also for those less educated people... let’s think beyond 3... mixed race people also are parents too and many biracial and multiracial people marry and procreate with other similarly mixed people creating multigenerational mixed offspring. Example.... Lena Horne, Dorothy dandrudge, Vanessa Williams, Misty Copeland, step curry, Colin Powell etc. think beyond three people! Rock Newman learned about own mixed ancestors...both of his parents were about 80% white...and he played stupid like he did not know that...these two black doctors broke it down to him kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKmQdKGpp62Nj6M

[@ydschools9745]

Richard Myles you are ignorant

[@PsychicMedium4747]

YD Schools to the contrary I am highly educated. Lena was a mixed race woman. No black woman would ever look like her. You just have so much self hate that you don’t want to accept black features you prefer mixed race features because of their white ancestry.

[@PsychicMedium4747]

YD Schools it is the other way around. What I stated are facts .

[@PsychicMedium4747]

To the contrary you are. Most people like you have no knowledge nor understanding of black people. Black Americans are descendants from WESTERN SUBSAHARAN africa. If you payed attention in school you can clearly see the phenotype of black people brought on slave ships. Harriet Tubman was the phenotype of black people. NO BLACK enslaved people looked anything like Lena Horne because she was MIXED RACE. In essence, Lena Horne was a MIXED RACE WOMAN with SUBSTANTIAL WHITE ANCESTRY. Please tell me how the FACTS are ignorant?

[@Perivale]

"Me and the shoeshine guy were the only black people out there." Damn, that's deep! Fortunately, times have changed, but we are not there yet.

[@angiefromChi]

She was Beautiful and PROUD TO BE BLACK!!!! Right On Lena! ✊🏽❤️

[@gatmanovah2115]

Amen I love it.

[@milliemouse6525]

Beautiful, no way😡!!! She was drop dead gorgeous 😁😁! I've always been amazed at how incredible she is 😂!

[@gratefuldead3750]

This is a black singer kzbin.info/www/bejne/ap2XqGyuqpWGmMk

[@kaybrooks7948]

She is class personified. I love how she held on her to her roots even though she could have played the light card.

[@thetruthhasconsequences58]

There is no such thing as playing the "light card". That's an invented white gaslighting 9grase: THEY "play " the race card: it's at the FOREFRONT, mostly, EVERYTHING re African American individual

[@kathleensantos5358]

I think she might have passed maybe once or twice in her life especially when she had to go down South

[@ms.chellylumpkins8208]

This was a wonderfully made documentary. I enjoyed Lena's own biographical narrative , with clips of her performances. I didnt know of her marriage to a white man and the isolation she felt from her own community. Lena was a one of a kind performer and she had the wisdom of the ancestors. Kudos to the producers. This was awesome.

[@jeevesandwooster6281]

A most amazing talent. Her voice was unique among the greatest in the world. No one sang like Lena. She put her whole soul in a song.

[@IAMMOVIN4WARD]

Lena surprised me with her powerful voice. I did not know she could sing like that!👏🏾👏🏾🔥🔥

[@2degucitas]

So beautiful. That face, those teeth and that voice.

[@boleyn123]

She sure is: I listen to Bewitched, bothered and bewildered every other day and am still amazed at that incredible voice.

[@wendysmith3095]

2degucitas p

[@cliftonhoward2656]

@@boleyn123 😩

[@nikradik]

Yes yes and yes

[@Osunbunmi_Ifatunmise]

I am sorry but some of these comments are disturbing. Why is this turning into a discussion to classify who she was. Make no mistake about it. Lena Horne was a beautiful talented black woman. Black people come in all shades of the color spectrum.

[@4knewt505]

Well said. different shades is the beauty of our people.

[@naturalkinkycurlymarie7496]

bass reemer Maybe in her Grandparents' Time but definitely NOT our time. Not one of my Family members distant and immediate got their light shade from any Rape by any Massas. We're of a rich cultural background where people of different cultures married each other and had children. We have hundreds of thousands of people dating back to her time and throughout the many decades leading up to Today who are products of Interracial Relationships & Marriages. Everyone with a Fair Complexion is NOT a Direct Descendant of Slaves who were Raped. So NO, " Most Shades did not come from that. Just Keeping it Real.

[@donliberacesammyd1555]

Karen Cartwright just keep being beautiful haters will die down eventually or fade out.

[@nkwari]

What is the argument? White people wrote the law that "one drop of black blood" makes you legally black no matter what you look like, and you don't have the right to stay in white hotels, eat in white restaurants, etc. She did her part to further civil rights and she should be applauded for that. She could have had an easier life if she "passed" for something else.

[@ebonynaomi1085]

Americans are obsessed with race. They are a young nation so they still adapting...... I guess

[@colinricgmailcom]

I took my wife to see her at the Adelphi Theater in the Strand... She was one of the greatest performers of a song I've ever seen or heard!

[@dianeellis3925]

You simply can’t top her. Fabulous. Smart. Beautiful.

[@josephel5856]

A very informative and touching documentary. Rest in peace Lena Horn.

[@hopefaithandlove6236]

I concur

[@richardbullis6263]

Horne

[@MiamiPush2theLimit]

I'm so grateful she opened herself up to share so much in this documentary.

[@denisemarshall2423]

I have a new appreciation for Lena Horne after learning so much about this strong, talented & beautiful woman.

[@Jameslopez5682]

Hello Denise how are you doing hope you’re having a great time with your family may God bless you and your family

[@littleogeechee223]

Good Lord! One of the most beautiful and talented women who ever lived...just a stunning, amazing work of art.

[@reggiecarter7167]

she is so down to earth.. just down home... love it

[@jlernerz]

Lena is the most beautiful woman I ever met. It happened in New Haven,CT autumn 1965. I was waiting in the Yale Co-op where she was about to autograph her book and records,when I uncomfortably felt some guy watching me as I was reading a book waiting for Miss Horne. So uncomfortable,that I decided to leave. All of a sudden Lena came out and grabbed me by my arm saying "Are my people bothering you?" We had quite a chat.

[@retroraptressmcdeborahjane806]

Judith Lerner WOW! A chat with a legend

[@jacquelynhudson6681]

Sweet

[@lindahenderson4051]

I too have met this beautiful legend! I was waiting outside for an autograph at the front of the theater where she had finished performing, instead of the side entrance where everyone else was waiting. So there I was all by myself and she came out the front entrance of the theater and I got my autograph and a conversation with a gracious, elegant black woman. What a star, she was so beautiful. Then someone from the side entrance came around and yell to the rest of the fans "here she is", and she was then wisked away before the crowd gather. I stood quietly on the side with a big smile realizing I was the only one that night that had got a autograph, plus a private and memorable conversation with the legend, Lena Horne! What a memory!

[@missbee1451]

@@lindahenderson4051 woooooow

[@LivNLuv33]

Wow, I can’t believe I knew so little about her.......can’t believe she’s not celebrated more.......

[@asanta2023]

💯

[@avawilliams5827]

What a fierce, intelligent, talented woman who endured so much. She’s an inspiration for me to stay strong no matter what life throws at my way. To be the best in my craft. If only I had been able to meet her 💗

[@msatxgault560]

I can only imagine how often she had to say "no" to band members & club owners

[@honeybuzzard2843]

She probably told them " Hell No" she was a Fire Ball. A Gorgeous Fire Ball.

[@jabjab4434]

And of course some " Yes "

[@waynej2608]

@@jabjab4434 lucky bastards.

[@stevewoodson4635]

They Didn't know that truth and the skyguys

[@cdk1473]

So Beautiful and she wasn't trying to pass. Very talented woman.I lived on a block named Lena st. I always thought it was named after her.

[@datguy1569]

She tells her story in a mellow unique way to where when you're listening it feels like she's your grandma telling you her story she almost makes you feel like you know her I could listen to her stories all day.👍

[@blessedqueen6104]

This was such a beautiful story!!! As a child I looked forward in receiving both Ebony and Jet magazines due to their meticulous portrayal of that Black Magic. I loved her tenacity, her blackness, her strength, and her unapologetic demeanor as she grew both professionally and personally. Great Legacy and thank you for sharing!

[@natashagreen8147]

just watched an episode of The Cosby Show where the beautiful classy Ms. Horne appeared and sang a special song for Cliff and Clare on his birthday

[@charliefennell409]

Natasha Green LENA HORNE DON'T OWE SHIT TO NO ONE.JUST BE.

[@jotiqueharlee194]

And on A different World

[@francescamcgeorge1319]

That's the same exact thing that brought me here her starring on Sanford and Son amazing Lady

[@suzettebennett8522]

All light skin and brown skin. What happened to dark skin women. They are beautiful also.

[@tinathomas7659]

The 1st time I saw her, I was a little girl watching "The Cosby Show." It was something so captivating about her. This doc confirmed everything I thought: classy, sassy, strong, and very intelligent. What a beautiful legend #rip

[@pescadaro1814]

Tina Thoma

[@ladyred8948]

It's crazy how many people my age only know Lena Horn as a women from the Cosby show....I'm so grateful to have a mom who love classic movies and The showboat is one of my favorite movies and wish she would have gotten the opportunity to play that role because I know she would have won some awards for her acting

[@davidsonmacaillant991]

Tina Thomas me too

[@yacodiva316]

Ms. Horne spoke to us (work colleagues - at least 10 surrounding her and in heaven listening to a legend) in the lobby of the Waldorf Astoria; we all honored the wit and wisdom she had to share. She spoke of life's experiences. She gave us encouragement and a purpose for being. I was also fascinated that a childhood friend was the bass player in her show on Broadway, Ben Brown.

[@lainimoreno]

WOW, that performance of Lady and Her Music blew me away! I never saw her like that omg

[@MiamiPush2theLimit]

L Moreno it made me cry 😭

[@sharonhicks-jones5471]

I love the fact that she recognizes her looks afforded her a great deal. Black Queen

[@Molly_Belle]

@Alexis Bliss She looked mixed, like many of us.

[@Molly_Belle]

@@rh9793 True, also in New Orleans there were brothels with black and mixed ladies especially around the turn of the century. I'm sure some of them had babies. Most of us Americans are mixed. That's why we so cute😉

[@Irish-Rose]

Shanelle Mason The “N” word is horrible! Ppl need to respect one another. And yes God is real, BUT he has no color. Once you are dead, you are a spirit, & there is no color. Ppl are too fixated about color, we are all human beings, God made us all, & we all are related. God does not like the hatred towards his ppl of any color. God is love.

[@Irish-Rose]

Angeli Ann Mixed babies, are so beautiful! They have the best from both cultures.

[@Irish-Rose]

Robin Holbrook Many are also mixed because of interracial relationships, that happened even back then. Not everyone was raped. This is from Wikipedia : Lena Horne was born in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. She was reportedly descended from the John C. Calhoun family, and both sides of her family were a mixture of African-American, Native American, and European American descent and belonged to the upper stratum of middle-class, well-educated people.

[@LuvleeKyree]

Why did they keep saying she couldn't sing? She sounds great.

[@chair1002]

@Robin Wize Feline stfu she could sing

[@waynej2608]

I thought she sounded magnificent, esp singing Stormy Monday, at the end. Wow. Chills.

[@katieosborn9345]

I agree... She's a very good singer. I suppose the competition then was just so fierce.

[@tonyarichelle8380]

Robin Wize Feline I'm a musician and she could sing her ass off!! It was nothing but pure, unapologetic RACISM The truth shall set you free!!😂😂😂😂

[@dylangintherofficial]

She tried to be modest If you watch most of thr docs from back thn Even ppl like barbra streissand and doris day had no clue how good they were I feel lena is the same in tht stance Wayy more talented thn she tells herself

[@rodesia2]

This had me in tears!! What a treasure to us all..

[@noraO2833]

Lena Horne... she inspired my inside to wake. She was such a fighter and a legend 🌻

[@kyrareneeLOA]

Sad that she said,...her roles in movie scenes were cut out when played for southern audiences (back then). Lena was so graceful and lovely.

[@m.leannapeterkin684]

We have really been through some stuff- and they say we are violent....

[@marlenemartin6302]

😏Right 😏😏😏

[@nicoletaylor1438]

Why did you come to this website? It seem s you are always coming into black American spaces with your bullshit and trying to argue and debate because you are a grifter. Please leave us alone. You’ve fought for nothing. You go all over the globe drinking out of others cup and get mad whe you are called out. We are aware that her constant criticism is really admiration from what you could not and cannot accomplish in a Black Country on a black continent. Leave is alone.

[@marystar6021]

Who can not feel deep emotions listening to Lena Horne singing 46:20 - "Yesterday when I was young" ? Sung with such a beautiful, rich, emotional from her heart voice.

[@charlesrobinson1637]

Lena Horne never sold out ,What a classy beautiful lady she is a beacon a icon I cannot say enough about this lady

[@elainebmack]

When I was much younger I assumed that Lena Horne had it easy because she was a light skinned black in a time when lightness was preferred. It still is in many ways, but how wrong I was.

[@apriljoe444]

she had it easier than a dark skinned......her family was apart of the black upperclass…...most of "the first black...….." were light skinned or nearly white in appearance

[@cynthiamitchell5748]

What a lot a black people don’t understand who don’t know our history is light skinned were not allow to go in white bathrooms, restaurants and other establishments. There was and never was 3 races in America, black white and light skinned no such thing. This was a falsehood perpetrated by whites to confuse blacks. My grandma was light as Lena. She did not have it easy either. Cause she damned near white she could not even walk with my dad and his siblings downtown. Lena Horne was a great lady and a credit to our race and black women. She had class a whole lot more than some of these black women today in the music business.

[@folksbell5817]

APZTakeitEZ 2014 having to leave school @ 16 to support your family is NOT easy.

[@Michelle-pn9xt]

@@cynthiamitchell5748 I agree with you! No black person has it easier than anyone else. We all experience a variety of problems regardless of how light or dark your skin is.

[@PsychicMedium4747]

Michelle Lena was mixed race she still had many doors open to her compared to a black woman

[@miss.teetee1166]

Lena Horne was so beautiful and still is.

[@melanielindsay9367]

Class act!!! She was one of the greats. I have a new appreciation for her legacy after watching this. RIP Queen

[@derrickhobbs520]

wow alicia keys is truly her living spirit today !! Rest in Eternal Peace forever living on LegendaryLena Hone such a lady and a fighter for our rights!!!

[@ilovetheseventies6461]

Lena Horne was one of the most talented and beautiful women in the world

[@marlenemartin6302]

🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾Facts

[@bettyflipkowski235]

I love the seventies #2

[@mikex3578]

Excellent documentary that I didn't recall being part of the American Master series. Thank You for posting...Lena Forever!

[@nattyrocberry]

This was sooo inspiring. I remember the first time I saw her it was on the Cosby show! She sang happy birthday to Bill Cosby. I’ll never forget how regal and poised she was.

[@laurieberry4814]

I didn’t know that she was alive when I was.

[@cj8803]

Even in her elder years she was DROP DEAD GORGEOUS! OMG! She was BAD! And her classy persona YASSSSS! She knew that even though she was mixed with all those ethnicities, at the end of the day she would still be labeled as a BLACK WOMAN. She didn't let her light skin go to her head.

[@corlenajames1381]

My grandmother looked so much like the lovely Lena Horne. 😢 I'm missing her terribly.

[@JahMakeAhh]

Corlena James My grandmother favored her a lot as well. I can't watch The Wiz "Believe in Yourself" without losing it...smh. I love Lena. My grandmother is gone now...but still so very very loved 💝💕💝💕

[@stephaniecampbell5131]

Corlena James1 My Grandma as well could have been her twin Sister .❤

[@erinlevere6881]

Corlena James1 mine did too that's Crazy

[@Shay_TheUnpopularOpinion_]

She's such an elegant woman. It is a shame that she had to struggle for such a long time with anger because of her family, her identity and her happiness....But in the end, she learned from her own journey and I love how honest she was!

[@aliciasmith2157]

We all love you so much

[@LadyJefferson]

Shay :I

[@marlenemartin6302]

Hell ,We all do ,No Matter What Our Struggle is , Regarding our family and friends🤷🏾‍♀️

[@shelleyphilcox4743]

Oh my goodness, she looks like her Grandmother! Such a beautiful voice, and so elegant. Inspiring woman who has clearly been through so much and successful against so much adversity. Impressive.

[@TheNelsonmonteiro]

What a gorgeous and strong woman! Hardship make people better.

[@gdhdlvr]

Alicia Keyes' resemblance to younger Lena is stunning. But Lena is in a class all her own

[@ocky88]

gdhdlvr Lonette McKee also bears a striking resemblance to those two

[@sandralockhart3394]

ocky88 mmortozn

[@daysturn1971]

I would love for Alicia Keys to do proper Lena Horne biographical film.

[@erict7093]

gdhdlvr: you are so right about that I would love to see Alicia Keys play Lena Horne

[@lindak.3833]

ghhdlvr...Alicia may look like a younger Lena but I would prefer that they get an unknown to play Lena Horne...and really match her look and her voice because as you said, she is in a class of her own.

[@humanfairy]

She truly grew as a singer, so proud!

[@MargeryHannah]

Such a beautiful, honest, and humble woman. This is gold-thanks for the upload.

[@Jameslopez5682]

Hello Margery how are you doing hope you’re having a great time with your family may God bless you and your family

[@michaelalowery3839]

My great-grandfather, may he Rest In Peace, when he was alive even after suffering from dementia he would walk around the house and sing “Sun up in the sky, me and my girl ain’t together. Stormy weather it keeps raining all the time”. He’d say I love me some Lena Horne! That girl can sing. I like to keep that memory of him, because it makes me feel like I keep a piece of him with me from that era, and a snippet from history. He must have had a good time growing up in the 1910s. Makes me wonder was it so different to now. Not too many people can say they got to meet their great-grandparents let alone great-great grandparents. However, I was fortunate enough to have met both. My great-grandfather was born in 1914 and his mother in 1890.

[@elobee6147]

So strange how they commented that she couldn't sing in the beginning... She sounded amazing from the beginning to me!

[@DUB_87]

She said she couldn't sing.

[@lhuff1069]

She really couldn't sing that kind of big and sound drowned out. The singer She copied other singers to get by Poor thing I wonder who her white father was

[@vonlossberg]

Lena Horne..class, beauty, so talented. she broke the glass ceiling. What a wonderful lady.

[@ElectedOfficial1]

I remember, my parents as musicians, my hearing Lena Horne and thinking, "how intense she is!" I mean, this woman had control over herself and others that was almost separate from everyone including herself. There was a soul that was so very old. Nothing would interfere with This Woman's abilities. She gave me great strength as a musician myself to gain that very feeling Within Myself of my own Talent. I really loved Lena Horne., the way she looked, the way she sounded, and who she was.

[@carolae.4014]

The gracefulness and integrity as an actress and singer are what made her a star.

[@jamesdougherty2271]

If I were black and growing up in the US, I'd be angry too. I don't think anybody should be treated as though they're a third class citizen in their own country.

[@lainimoreno]

exactly :(

[@maya8443]

Native Americans were, he'll they were massacred.

[@maya8443]

@Brown Sugabay - anyone who begins a sentence with "news flash" I don't take seriously, especially not someone who is African American thinking they're the natives of this part of the Americas. You need to really do research in the history of the original tribes of different parts of the continent. Before you start yapping around without any solid proof to support your baseless arguments.

[@maya8443]

@Brown Sugabay - lol, the funny thing is that you fail to state that your personal ancestry is Apache, and by doing so you led me to assumed that you weren't, however, against your own cultural lineage there is not debate. I really don't see what you're trying to teach a person like me who doesn't know "shit", your own words; if your response to my comment is empty and none existent, you have not made any important points about what you claim to have teach me. Anyways, don't want to spoil my day with pointless comments, Best regards!

[@lorebay2593]

I too understand her anger, I do love how at the end she said she could look out into the audience and see the integrated audience where as earlier she could only sing to white only crowds because they did not allow black people in, she was angry because she could entertain them, but could not share accommodations.

[@REALITYTVIGLIVE2u]

This was a beautiful documentary about her life... love the pictures...I love the music.. I love her speaking💜 rest in peace Lena you are phenomenal

[@ctruth6185]

I like her singing, her sound & her art. She sounded good----- Lena, underrated her voice. Her story is very, interesting amazing performance. This lady had character. What a journey! What a life she lived! What an artist!

[@charliefennell1023]

SHE DEALT WITH RACISMO ODDS,THAT THEY DON'T HAVE TODAY.

[@cathysaunders3268]

I saw her last show on Broadway with my Mama Jackie and it was a beautiful Mother /Daughter Memory that I will always Treasure . The Lady and her music 🎶🎵 was a Glamorous yet historical account of what Happened to our artist/entertainers in a by gone era as seen through Lena's eyes and brilliantly executed In song. I am thankful for her tremendous sacrifices so my life is easier to live as a lighter complexion Black, non Latina women with a disability; in today's racial climate. It is so SAD 😢 that we're still struggling with those issues that those like Our Lady Lena spent a Lifetime working to change. Perhaps creating a family atmosphere among the Strangers that come into our lives to the best of our ability while daily surviving racial inequalities is the best way to honor Ms.Horne, since family was something her younger self longed for. May she Rest in Peace 🕊️🙏🏾🎶🌹🛐✝️❤️📖🌹👼🏽 Respectfully Cathy Lynn Saunders Poet & Advocate

[@lemualthomas5670]

We walked passed each other downtown Manhattan, 57 street. She looked straight at me and gave me a beautiful smile. Wow. 😃

[@michellemoran3271]

She embraced who she was 😍💕

[@darlinee2911]

Lena was a beautiful Black woman and carried herself in every area of life with pride and respect for self and her people. We need that now in our Entertainers of today

[@TRADERSFRIEND]

Fantastic documentary. You look at people's lives and you just never know. To look at her, you'd never think she had an ouch of pain in her entire existence. An amazing woman!..........!

[@susansusan138]

I was thinking the same thing. You never know what people have or are going through. Always give people room to be people.

[@sandracarey5709]

Traders Friend #

[@MegaLabStudios]

I thought the exact same thing!

[@xr2863]

Why would just looking at her make you think she had no pain in her life?

[@baberina1]

they don't make em like that anymore

[@genidechalu9949]

Hot damn, go on Lena....She will always be a credit to our race!

[@heatherbrooke7613]

To all people that have a story of pain and suffering she inspires me and will until the day I’m gone .

[@honeybuzzard2843]

Somebody tell me Please, How in the Hell you go from not being able to sing a lick, to being able to sing like this? I'll wait for it.

[@maya8443]

Lol, I was wondering the same thing and thought I might have a chance can't sing for my life.

[@honeybuzzard2843]

@@maya8443 LOL😆

[@maya8443]

@@honeybuzzard2843 - all jokes aside, I don't think they should be saying she couldn't sing. She probably had the voice but needed some lessons to refined what was already there... In my case I know I don't have what it takes and no couching of any sort will help me to developed what I don't have. Therefore, they shouldn't be saying she couldn't sing, you know.

[@olympiatuten2439]

Maybe vocal lessons

[@cheerlynstovall5506]

A snake Placed In a Tube becomes Straight😍But seriously she had a great voice but it needed training!

[@MemoGrafix]

I'm 50. I thought I wouldn't watch this entire respect for Lena Horne, I'm glad I did. I mostly heard this and that about Lena Horne from My Parents & Grandparents. When they played her music while I was growing up, I took Lena's (& others) music for granted. In recent years I've been downloading *Old Soul Music* that I can find from My Parents & Grandparents time, for old time sake. Now I have to find her music, for old time sake. I grew up in the music of the 1970's-Now R&B Soul, Dance, HipHop, Rock, etc., are My favorites. But right now just listening to the *SOUL* this *_Legendary_* Woman put into these last 2 singing segments brings back memories of My Mother and Father dancing together when they played *_that old time soul music._* Lena just gave Me the chills, in a good way. Thanks for the upload.

[@bethguillory340]

Movies based on be true stories

[@Madea8917]

Lena Horne, never knew learned so much about her. RIP

[@heatherjones7030]

This woman was drop dead gorgeous you hear me? ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@ivalinapasse2469]

Very Elegant!!!! THEY DRESSED SO FLY BACK THEN!!!

[@yarekim5932]

Lena is/was a GORGEOUS GORGEOUS WOMAN ! Class and Magnificent Beauty , great singer , and actress .

[@Houdini774]

Beautiful, talented and a powerful force of nature. Rest in peace Miss Horn.

[@justine7765]

I love her laugh when she says she had a lifetime contract. She’s got strength and a sense of humor!

[@Kk_karrine]

When they sign those contracts they usually do smh. So glad she could find humor in it all. God rest her soul

[@dorishampton2551]

My MOM always spoke highly of Lena Horne, always said she was beautiful, Lena Horne never denied being something she wasn't she was always BLACK.

[@rubylee446]

Lena Horne did take no stuff from racist Hollywood .she is grand .thank goodness for grandmother Lena parents were not thoughtful forgive her parents hope her ex husband has the worst .what a fine women

[@rubylee446]

John Hammond was grand