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Better known as a dancer and movie star than a singer, Gene Kelly nevertheless turned in memorable vocal performances in the context of his movies, the MGM musicals of the 1940s and 1950s. Born on August 23, 1912(-February 2, 1996), Kelly rose to fame on Broadway before making his Hollywood debut with “For Me and My Gal” in 1942. Kelly’s light, high vocals are distinctive, and he acted even as he sang, sometimes letting his voice crack at a pivotal moment (as in his vocal for the title number in “Singin’ in the Rain”). In addition to reinterpreting classics by the likes of George Gershwin, Kelly introduced a few standards, including “Be a Clown” from the film “The Pirate” and “Long Ago and Far Away” from “Cover Girl.” He also performed duets with such luminaries as Judy Garland and Frank Sinatra. He died in 1996 at the age of 83 due to complications from multiple strokes. |
