Vivian Reed, an American actor and singer of great renown, was born on the sixth day of June, 1947, and has since left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Reed's earliest forays into the realm of music commenced at the age of eight, when she initiated her formal vocal instruction at the esteemed Pittsburgh Musical Institute, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion that would soon blossom into a remarkable career.
Following her early training, Reed further refined her skills at the illustrious Juilliard School of Music in New York, where she immersed herself in the rich cultural heritage of the city, surrounded by some of the world's most talented musicians.
Reed's training was not limited to music alone, as she also pursued extensive dance training, allowing her to develop a well-rounded artistic expression that would serve her well in her future endeavors.
Under the watchful eye of the esteemed Honi Coles and Bobby Schiffman of the iconic Apollo Theater, Reed underwent rigorous guidance, honing her craft and transforming into a polished performer, poised to take the stage by storm and captivate audiences with her remarkable talent.
In the year 1968, a significant milestone was reached in the career of the talented artist, marked by the regional popularity she gained with her captivating rendition of the Gerry Goffin and Carole King composition, "Yours Until Tomorrow", which, although achieving moderate success, laid the groundwork for her future triumphs.
Her breakthrough performance in the hit Broadway and European production of "Bubbling Brown Sugar" earned her widespread critical acclaim, and soon, her name was on the lips of industry insiders and fans alike, as she found herself in high demand.
The renowned fashion designer, Pierre Cardin, took notice of her exceptional talent and booked her into his esteemed theater, where she was held over for several weeks, further solidifying her reputation as a rising star.
This notable achievement was soon followed by the creation of her first European television special, a testament to her growing influence and artistic range, which would undoubtedly pave the way for future successes.
Reed's remarkable talent and captivating charisma have propelled her to a plethora of esteemed stages and screens globally. Her impressive resume boasts numerous television appearances on variety and talk shows, including the esteemed "The Tonight Show", the popular "The Today Show", and the long-running soap opera "One Life to Live".
Noteworthy beyond her illustrious careers in stage and screen, the multifaceted Reed has also made a significant impact in the realm of film, boasting a diverse range of credits that include the notable "Headin' for Broadway".
Furthermore, she has had the privilege of collaborating with the renowned actress Catherine Deneuve in the film "L'Africain", a project that undoubtedly allowed her to tap into her creative potential.
Additionally, Reed has also brought her talents to the screen in the film "La Rumba", where she had the esteemed opportunity to portray the legendary Josephine Baker, a true icon in the world of entertainment.
Moreover, Reed has demonstrated her versatility by producing and starring in a short film, "What Goes Around", penned by the talented Angela Gibbs, a testament to her ability to excel in a variety of roles.
Finally, her impressive resume also includes voiceover work and television commercials, a testament to her ability to adapt to a wide range of projects and mediums.
Reed's profound influence transcends the realm of entertainment, as she has been honored with appearances on the coveted covers of various esteemed publications, including the iconic Vogue, the sophisticated Elle, the prestigious Paris Match, the widely circulated People, the influential Ebony, and the notable Jet. Moreover, she has been distinguished as one of the "25 Most Intriguing People of the Year" by People magazine, a testament to her remarkable achievements and impact. Additionally, Reed has been recognized on Mr. Blackwell's esteemed Best Dressed Women List, a prestigious accolade acknowledging her exceptional sense of style and fashion expertise.
In addition to her multifaceted career in entertainment, Reed is a skilled professional photographer, with a passion for capturing life's precious moments through the lens. Furthermore, she is a talented designer, with her own distinct line of scarves, aptly named VJR, showcasing her creativity and flair for aesthetics.
