Helen O'Connell

Helen O'Connell

Deceased · Born: May 23, 1920 · Died: Sep 9, 1993

Personal Details

BornMay 23, 1920 Lima, Ohio, USA
Spouse
  • Frank De Vol

    ( Dec 31, 1969 to Sep 9, 1993 )
  • Bob Paris

    ( Dec 31, 1969 to Dec 31, 1969 )
  • Tom T. Chamales

    ( May 9, 1957 to Mar 20, 1960 )
  • Clifford Smith Jr.

    ( Oct 19, 1943 to Dec 31, 1969 )

Biography

As a highly skilled and dedicated individual, this person's remarkable life story is a testament to their unwavering commitment to their craft and unrelenting passion for their work.

From a young age, this remarkable individual demonstrated a natural aptitude for their chosen field, consistently showcasing an innate talent that would eventually propel them to the pinnacle of success.

Throughout their illustrious career, they have been driven by an insatiable curiosity and a relentless pursuit of excellence, pushing the boundaries of what is thought possible and consistently raising the bar for themselves and those around them.

Their remarkable achievements have been recognized and celebrated by their peers and the wider community, earning them a reputation as a master of their craft and a true icon in their field.

Despite the numerous accolades and awards they have received, this individual remains humble and grounded, crediting their success to the support of their loved ones and the unwavering dedication of their team.

With a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence generations to come, this extraordinary person's remarkable biography is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, determination, and a refusal to settle for anything less than excellence.

Helen O'Connell, a multifaceted American entertainer, left an indelible mark on the world of music and beyond, her remarkable voice and impressive range captivating audiences across diverse genres. From a tender age, she was beset by an ardent passion for music, which ultimately served as the catalyst for her illustrious career.

Helen Humes, a talented vocalist, made a significant impact in the music industry by joining the Dorsey band in 1939. Throughout the early 1940s, she released an impressive array of hit records, including "Green Eyes", "Amapola", "Tangerine", and "Yours".

Her remarkable ability to harmonize with Bob Eberly, who would croon the song, set her apart from other singers. This unique talent earned her widespread recognition within the music industry, as she was twice selected as the best female singer by Down Beat readers. Furthermore, she won the prestigious 1940 Metronome magazine poll for best female vocalist, solidifying her position as a leading figure in the music world.

Helen, a talented and charismatic performer, won the hearts of countless American soldiers during the tumultuous years of World War II. With her captivating stage presence, she traveled extensively, entertaining troops and lifting spirits through her lively performances. This remarkable woman, known for her unwavering dedication to her craft, was instrumental in boosting morale among the brave men and women serving on the front lines.

As the war drew to a close, Helen took a temporary leave from the spotlight to embark on a new chapter in her life. In 1943, she exchanged vows with her first husband, marking the beginning of a new era. However, her passion for performance never truly wavered, and she eventually returned to the stage in 1951. This marked the beginning of a new era of creative expression, as Helen's talents earned her widespread recognition and chart success.

The 1950s saw Helen become a staple of television, with regular appearances on popular shows. Her charming on-screen presence and undeniable talent endeared her to audiences nationwide, cementing her status as a beloved entertainer. Throughout her illustrious career, Helen continued to captivate and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.

Helen O'Connell's remarkable professional trajectory was marked by a plethora of television appearances, showcasing her exceptional versatility as a performer. One of her most notable endeavors was her own 15-minute program, "The Helen O'Connell Show", which allowed her to shine as a solo artist. Additionally, she co-hosted the Desilu-NBC program "Here's Hollywood" alongside other talented individuals, further solidifying her reputation as a skilled and charismatic on-screen presence.

Moreover, Helen O'Connell made a lasting impression by co-hosting the prestigious Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants alongside the renowned Bob Barker from 1972 to 1980. Her exceptional hosting skills and captivating on-screen presence undoubtedly contributed to the success of these events.

Notably, Helen O'Connell's outstanding work in the Miss Universe pageant earned her a prestigious Emmy nomination in 1976, a testament to her dedication and professionalism.

Helen O'Connell, a talented and accomplished vocalist, had the privilege of sharing the stage with some of the most iconic and renowned artists of her time, including the legendary Bing Crosby, the inimitable Johnny Mercer, and the charismatic Dean Martin.

Throughout her illustrious career, she also had the distinction of singing the National Anthem at the prestigious Super Bowl XV, which took place in the year 1981.

In addition to her impressive repertoire, Helen O'Connell's 1942 recording of the timeless classic "Brazil" with the illustrious Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra was honored with a place in the esteemed Grammy Hall of Fame in the year 2009, a testament to her enduring legacy and the timeless appeal of her music.

Helen's swan song was a dazzling display of her remarkable talent, as she took the stage at the esteemed Valley Forge Music Festival in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, on the warm summer day of August 14, 1993. Throughout her extraordinary life, she remained an indelible icon in the music industry, leaving behind a rich legacy of unforgettable performances and invaluable contributions to the world of entertainment, a testament to her enduring impact and influence.

Career

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1961
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1959
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1942
The Fleet's In
The Fleet's In as Dorsey Band Vocalist
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1943