African-American gospel singer Mahalia Jackson (October 26, 1911 - January 27, 1972) was born in New Orleans. She was featured at the Monterey Jazz Festival in 1958. Called the “Queen of Gospel” due to her contralto voice, she was also a civil rights activist in the mid-20th century. She sang at JFK’s inauguration in 1961 and by request of Martin Luther King at the March on Washington in 1963. She gave her final concert in Munich, Germany in 1971 and died the next year of a heart attack in Chicago.
Recommended Resources
The biography of Mahalia Jackson, including not just her musical career, but her years as a civil rights activist and television personality.
http://www.biography.com/people/mahalia-jackson-9351242
Mahalia Jackson: The Queen of Gospel
The official web site of Mahalia Jackson by virtue of her “Residual Family Corporation” shares the story of her life, her discography, and some of her music in audio format. Also contains personal photographs of the gospel singer and her home.
http://www.mahaliajackson.us/
Contains details about the life, death, and legacy of Mahalia Jackson, including her biography, milestones, music, awards, and her memoir. Also displays a mind map of her life and relationships.
http://www.nndb.com/people/249/000088982/
