Anita Jean Grilli was born on October 31, 1927, in Memphis, Tennessee. Growing up, she was surrounded by music, as her mother was a church organist and her father played the violin. At a young age, Anita showed a talent for singing and playing the piano, and she quickly became involved in the local music scene.
In the late '40s, Anita became the leader of the choir for the popular radio program Sunday Down South on WSM radio. This experience helped her hone her vocal skills and gain exposure in the music industry. It wasn't long before Anita caught the attention of record producers and was offered the opportunity to record her own music.
In 1950, Anita founded the vocal group The Anita Kerr Singers, which would go on to achieve critical acclaim and commercial success. The group's unique blend of harmonies and arrangements set them apart from other vocal groups of the time. They released more than thirty albums from the '50s to the '70s and collaborated with a variety of influential artists.
Despite her success with The Anita Kerr Singers, Anita also pursued a solo career. She released four solo albums throughout her career, showcasing her versatility as a singer and pianist. Her song "Spanish Eyes" became a hit and garnered over 150,000 streams on Spotify.
Anita's talent and contributions to the music industry did not go unnoticed. She won back-to-back Grammy Awards for Best Performance by a Vocal Group for We Dig Mancini in 1965 and A Man and A Woman in 1966. Her ability to harmonize and arrange music was praised by critics and fans alike.
Despite her busy career, Anita found time for love and family. She was married twice, with her second marriage being to Swiss businessman Alex Grob. Her family and loved ones provided her with the support and encouragement she needed to continue pursuing her passion for music.
Anita Kerr's impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. Her innovative approach to vocal arrangements and harmonies set a new standard for vocal groups. Her collaborations with artists like Roy Orbison showcased her versatility and talent. Anita's influence can still be heard in the music of today, making her a true pioneer in the world of music.