sjbozich 's review for:

Lady Sings the Blues by Billie Holiday

3.0

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I read this for the first time back in '75. Much more into Jazz now, and know much more about the people she mentions in the book. Interesting how the last couple chapters turn into her talking about kicking her addiction - none of which was true. OK, not a big fan of his, but LOVE the Bob Hope story! Good autobio of herself, seldom pulling punches (outspoken about drugs, prostitution, her cross dressing friend - and racism......). Much of what she writes is jut throwing names out there, but some good stories too (touring with Artie Shaw - sadly, on different labels, only one recorded song of all the time they were together survives). Watch HBO's "Lady Day", read this - but most of all, go listen to some of her recordings! Well worth a read for any jazz fan.