Billy Eckstine was a trailblazing bandleader who helped usher in the new sound of be-bop alongside some of jazz music’s legends before etching out a successful solo career. The Pittsburgh, Pa. native was born on July 8, 1914. William Clarence Eckstein, (the original spelling of his name), wanted to be a football player as a young man but a collarbone injury and winning a $10 singing competition moved him to change course. In 1939, bandleader Earl Hines named Eckstine as a lead vocalist in his band, leading to early success due to his good looks and golden baritone voice. (READ MORE)(SOURCE: BLACKAMERICAWEB.COM)
