Elisabeth Welch "THE GIRL I KNEW" (1935)

"THE GIRL I KNEW"
Sung by Elisabeth Welch
Drury Lane Theatre Orchestra
Recorded April 18, 1935
Composed by Ivor Novello

American-born British musical theatre and cabaret singer (born Feb. 27, 1904, New York) she was known for her show-stopping performances in plays by Cole Porter, Ivor Novello, and Noel Coward. Welch began her career in New York City, where she created a sensation in 1931 with her rendition of Porter's 'Love for Sale'. She was a cabaret singer in Paris before becoming a fixture in London's West End. From the 1930s she appeared in films and on British radio and television. Welch was particularly associated with the songs 'Stormy Weather', which she introduced to English audiences in 1933, and 'Solomon', written for her by Porter. Later she was a hit in the musical Pippin (1970), and in 1980 a half century after her last appearance in New York City she made a triumphant return to Broadway. She died on July 15, 2003, Northolt, Middlesex, England at the age of 99 years old.

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[britishclub]

This is so moving!

Did Novello write this for her?

Are there anymore recordings of Black singers who performed in Britain in the 1930s and 40s, apart from Elisabeth Welch and Hutch?

[bsgs98]

Many Black entertainers performed in Britain during this era including Paul Robeson, Jesse Matthews, Adelaide Hall, Nina Mae McKinney, Bert Williams. To learn more read the book "Black in the British Frame" By Stephen Bourne. Preview in Google Books. Novello wrote the song for the show "Glamouous Nights" and Elisabeth was in the original cast, so I guess he wrote it for her!

[welch57]

This is lovely. Thank you. Thanks also for including the cover of my biography of Elisabeth! Did you attend my 'illustrated talk' about Lis at the National Portrait Gallery last week (19 March) to coincide with the small display of vintage photos in Room 31 (closes October 2009). The Gallery acquired them from me and I am thrilled they are sharing them with the public. I will be repeating the talk at the National Film Theatre on 3 July. Hope to see you there! Best, Stephen Bourne

[bsgs98]

Stephen, I have added an announcement of the Gallery event in the side notes. I hope you don't mind.

[bsgs98]

She is almost forgotton. Thankfully many of her songs have been reissued on compact disc.

[ratiman]

5000 views? this video should have millions!

[ccaammiiittoo1]

The quality of her voice captures the mood of the time so wonderfully, so much so that I lament not being there to appreciate her. Thank you for this sedative so much needed in these strenuous times!

[varadero1839]

What an amazing performer! She had it all; voice, looks and talent. She worked with the best in the business and was revered by everyone. I'm a big fan, and grateful to you for this. Five "plus" Stars!

[mic33george]

I cant get enough of her at the moment-a real re discovery.Further to her fantastic voice she seems to have been a lovely person too from what i have read.

[paulostroff99]

She is the bomb! Brava!

[britishclub]

Thank you. Yes, of course I knew about Robeson and his controversial "Othello" with Peggy Ashcroft. And I had heard of Adelaide Hall. But the others I have never heard of. I will certainly look at the book.

[welch57]

See also Aunt Esther's Story Parts 1 & 2 on You Tube for more about Miss Welch!