Black Diva of the Thirties: The Life of Ruby Elzy

Although now in the shadows, Ruby Elzy was a shining star in her day. From poverty and obscurity in Pontotoc, Mississippi, she had risen to great heights. She entertained Eleanor Roosevelt in the White House. She was Paul Robeson's leading lady in the movie version of The Emperor Jones. She co-starred in Birth of the Blues opposite Bing Crosby and Mary Martin. She sang at Harlem's Apollo Theater and at the Hollywood Bowl. Her remarkable soprano voice was known to millions over the radio. Sh...