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Ruble Blakey

Ruble Blakey (April 4, 1911 - May 13, 1992) was an American actor and singer.

Early life

Ruble Blakey was born on April 4, 1911 in Warren County, Kentucky. He grew up in Chicago, Illinois.

Career

Blakey started his career in the 1930's as a dancer in a Chicago cabaret. He then had several engagements in Chicago's Ritz Lounge, which was owned by one of his cousins. In 1940, he worked at Joe Glaser's famous Grand Terrace Cafe in Chicago. Between 1941-1945, he was a vocalist with Lionel Hampton and his orchestra and created a number of records with Victor and Decca. In 1946, he recorded on the HUB label with Don Byas and his orchestra.

Discography

  • Prove It By The Things You Do / I Made a Promise To My Heart (with the Debutantes) (HUB Records)
  • Gypsy Eyes (with Don Swan and His Music)
  • The Gypsy (with Don Byas and his orchestra)
  • Nancy (with Don Byas and his orchestra)

With Lionel Hampton and his orchestra

  • Now That You're Mine (1941, Victor)
  • Just For You (1941, Decca)
  • Southern Echoes / My Wish (1941, Decca)
  • Now I Know (1941, Decca)
  • Half a Love Is Better Than None (1941, Decca)
  • What's Happenin', Baby? (lyrics)
  • Give Me Some Skin
  • The Music Stopped (1944)
  • Your Guess Is As Good As Mine (lyrics) (circa 1944)
  • Idaho
  • Don't Believe Everything You Dream

Personal life

Blakey had one child, a daughter (Marla Blakey, born April 26, 1949, choreographer and dancer). In the 1950's, he relocated to Paris, living there for a few years and working as a talent agent for several jazz musicians. He then returned sometime after back to the United States. He died on May 13, 1992 in Oak Bluffs, Massachussets at the age of 81. He was cremated and his ashes were scattered in Paris.

Filmography

References