The Bronze Blonde Bombshell

Name:
Joyce Bryant

Born:
October 14, 1928/Oakland, California,

Occupation:
Singer, actress

Nickname/Alias/ Nom de guerre:
The Bronze Blonde Bombshell”, “the black Marilyn Monroe,” “The Belter,” and “The Voice You'll Always Remember”

What Makes Her Bitchin’:
One of the earliest African-American sex-symbols, Joyce became famous during the late 1940s and early 1950s performing at theaters and nightclubs. Besides her sterling silver hair and body-hugging mermaid dresses, she became noteworthy for crooning the popular standards “Love for Sale” and “Drunk with Love.” Both were prohibited from radio because of their provocative lyrics.

Betcha’ Didn’t Know:
Joyce left show business at the zenith of her career, choosing instead to dedicate her life to spirituality. She re-emerged a decade late, becoming a vocal coach for entertainers like Jennifer Holliday and Raquel Welch.

Hear “The Voice You'll Always Remember” sing “Love for Sale”: