Sammy Davis Jr. was born on August 12, 1925, in New York City, NY. He was born into a family of performers, with his father and uncle working in Vaudeville. At just three years old, Sammy made his debut alongside his dad and uncle, showcasing his natural talent for singing, dancing, and acting.
Despite his early start in show business, Sammy faced challenges growing up, particularly with racism. His father and uncle shielded him from the harsh realities of bigotry, but as he got older, he encountered discrimination firsthand. This experience would later fuel his involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, as he used his platform to speak out against injustice and inequality.
Sammy Davis Jr.'s big break came when he joined the Rat Pack, a group of performers that included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. Together, they became one of the most iconic entertainment acts of their time, performing in Las Vegas and on television.
In 1972, Sammy released his hit song "The Candy Man," which solidified his status as a pop singer. The song topped the charts and became a classic, earning him even more recognition in the music industry.
In 1987, Sammy Davis Jr. embarked on a tour with Liza Minnelli and other members of the Rat Pack. The tour was a huge success and showcased Sammy's enduring talent and charisma on stage.
Tragically, Sammy's life was cut short when he passed away from throat cancer. His legacy lives on through his music, film, and advocacy work, inspiring countless fans and future generations of performers.
Sammy Davis Jr. will always be remembered as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, breaking barriers and paving the way for others to follow in his footsteps.
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