Al Jolson, born as Asa Yoelson on May 26, 1886, in Srednik, then part of the Russian Empire (now in Lithuania), was an American singer, comedian, and actor. Jolson is widely recognized as one of the most famous entertainers of the early 20th century, particularly known for his dynamic stage presence and his role in the transition from silent films to "talkies."
Jolson immigrated to the United States with his family in 1894. His father, a rabbi, moved to Washington, D.C. where Jolson began his career in show business as a child singer in local bars. He later joined the Burlesque circuit, which was a stepping stone to vaudeville, where he developed his unique style characterized by his energetic performances, blackface makeup, and the use of jazz and blues music.
One of the most controversial aspects of Jolson's career was his use of Blackface. While this was a common practice in the Vaudeville era, it is now viewed with considerable criticism due to its racial insensitivity. Jolson's performances, however, were instrumental in popularizing African American music among white audiences, although this contribution is often debated in terms of cultural appropriation versus genuine appreciation.
Jolson's most significant contribution to cinema was his starring role in "The Jazz Singer" (1927), the first feature-length film with synchronized dialogue sequences. Although the film itself was not entirely sound, Jolson's performance of songs like "Mammy" and "Toot, Toot, Tootsie (Goo' Bye)" became iconic. This film marked the beginning of the end for silent films, ushering in the era of sound in cinema.
Before and during his film career, Jolson was a Broadway star, known for shows like "Sinbad" (1918) and "Bombo" (1921). His performances were legendary for their emotional depth, humor, and the way he connected with audiences. Jolson was known for his improvisation, often changing lines or songs during performances, which added to his reputation as a consummate showman.
Despite the controversy surrounding his use of blackface, Jolson's impact on entertainment is undeniable. He helped to break racial barriers in music by bringing African American musical styles into mainstream American culture. His influence can be seen in the works of entertainers like Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland, who both cited Jolson as an influence. His recordings, many of which were best-sellers, also paved the way for the future of popular music.
Jolson married four times, with his marriage to Ruby Keeler being one of the most notable, as she starred alongside him in several films. His personal life was often tumultuous, marked by a series of marriages, divorces, and his lifelong dedication to entertaining, even during his later years when his health was failing.
Al Jolson passed away on October 23, 1950, due to a heart condition. His legacy lives on not only through his films and recordings but also through the Al Jolson Memorial and various awards named after him. His contributions to the arts were posthumously recognized when he was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.