Moms Mabley was a legendary American standup comedian who broke boundaries and paved the way for future generations of African-American performers. Born on March 19, 1894 in North Carolina, she began her career in the early 1900s, becoming a pioneer of the 'Chitlin' Circuit' of African-American vaudeville. Her unique brand of humor and storytelling captivated audiences across the country.
From a young age, Moms Mabley knew she wanted to be a performer. Despite pressure to marry as a teen, she chose to pursue her passion for comedy. She honed her craft on the African-American comedy circuit, gaining fame and success along the way. In 1962, she made a groundbreaking appearance at Carnegie Hall, reaching a wider white audience and solidifying her status as a comedy icon.
Moms Mabley was not only a trailblazer in comedy but also in the music industry. Her cover version of "Abraham, Martin and John" became a hit on the Hot 100 in 1969, setting a record as the oldest person to have a US Top 40 hit at the age of 75. Her boldness and authenticity as a performer inspired many, including the likes of Bing Crosby.
Despite facing challenges and adversity throughout her life, Moms Mabley remained true to herself. She was a mother of six and had 19 siblings, creating a legacy that extended beyond the stage. Coming out as a lesbian at a time when it was uncommon for performers to do so, she fearlessly lived her truth and opened doors for future LGBTQ+ entertainers.
Moms Mabley's impact on comedy and entertainment cannot be overstated. Her humor, resilience, and authenticity continue to inspire and influence performers to this day. Whoopi Goldberg produced a documentary about her life in 2013, ensuring that her legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
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