One song that is embedded in many American’s hearts is Somewhere Over the Rainbow, and at the root of that song is Judy Garland.Judy Garland was born on June 10th 1922 in Minnesota. Her father was involved with vaudeville and her mother was a typical stage mom. She had two older sisters and they all began performing at a very young age. At the age of four years old Judy stole the show from her sisters with her outstandingly mature voice and charm.
Not long after that she began to travel around the United States to perform their biggest success as a trio was at the World’s Fair, where they appeared as the Garland Sisters. “Baby” also known as Judy, made it all the way to California and signed a contract with MGM.
Throughout their lives the family suffered financially with the father losing his business several times and also emotionally with the depression that was derived from that experience. Judy never hesitated to give it her all on stage and do well for her family. In her teen years she suffered the loss of a parent when her father died.
She then was more determined than ever to do well. Judy was never seen as a sex icon like Marilyn Monroe. Rather she had a lot of pressure from MGM to lose weight. They then put her on pills to boost energy and reduce weight. From this point she had to take sleeping pills to wear off the effects of the other pills. This began her life long struggle with drugs.
Despite her hardships Judy landed her starring role in 1939 playing Dorothy in the Wizard of OZ. The film was an instant hit, and one that has lasted through the generations. In fact the most popular song Somewhere over the Rainbow was almost removed from the film because it was too long and boring for the audience. The decision to keep it may have been one of the best MGM had ever made.
From then on Judy Garland married and divorced several times. She also was a part of the original “Rat Pack”, which according to those involved in it like Frank Sinatra, it was much wilder than the Hollywood version of the group. She had two children Liza and Lorna, both of which have had great success as singers.
Her career branched out to Broadway, Hollywood, Singing, Television, and Radio, despite all of her success she was never truly happy and died of an accidental overdose.
She is an example of the American Dream because she came from a poor family in Middle America, to someone with whom almost anyone can recognize. She also bore two children who have become stars and the people who knew her claimed she had a lasting effect on them and everybody she met. From singing as a child at Clarke Gable’s birthday party to a world known super star, Judy Garland achieved great success based on the great talent and poise she possessed.
Today her songs can be heard on American Idol, Brittans got Tallent and so much more. Her most recient accomplishment is a wax figure in Madam Teuseus Wax Museum and a 4d version of the Wizard of OZ displayed there as well.
Wow, I never knew that. I wonder who her kids are
ReplyDelete