The Life and Legacy of Legendary Singer, Burl Ives
Burl Ives was a legendary American singer, songwriter, and actor who left an indelible mark on the music and entertainment industry. As we delve deeper into his life and legacy, we’ll learn more about his achievements, relationships, career, and more.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Music Career
Burl Icle Ivanhoe Ives was born on June 14, 1909, in Hunt City, Jasper County, Illinois. He was one of seven children. Burl’s father, Levi, was a farmer and a contractor, while his mother, Cordelia, was a housewife and a devout Christian. At a young age, Burl developed a love for singing, and he started performing in his local church choir.
Burl’s music career took off in the 1930s, when he started performing on local radio stations. In 1937, he made his first recording, “The Wayfaring Stranger,” which became an instant hit. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Burl became a popular folk singer and one of the most recognizable voices of his generation.
Relationships and Children
Burl Ives was married twice in his life. His first marriage was to Helen Peck Ehrlich, whom he married in 1945. The couple had one child together, a son named Alexander. However, the marriage ended in 1971, and Burl married his second wife, Dorothy Koster Paul, the same year.
Burl and Dorothy were together until his death in 1995. They had one child together, a daughter named Hillary.
Career and Achievements
Burl Ives had a prolific career that spanned several decades. He was not only a talented singer but also a successful actor, author, and radio personality. Throughout his career, Burl won numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in “The Big Country” in 1959.
One of Burl’s most significant achievements was his contribution to the American folk music movement. Through his music, Burl helped introduce traditional folk songs to a new generation of listeners. One of his most popular songs was “A Little Bitty Tear,” which topped the charts in 1962.
Top Songs
Burl Ives had many hit songs throughout his career. Here are some of his most famous:
- “The Wayfaring Stranger”
- “The Blue Tail Fly”
- “Foggy, Foggy Dew”
- “A Holly Jolly Christmas”
- “On Top of Old Smoky”
- “Big Rock Candy Mountain”
- “Funny Way of Laughing”
- “Green, Green Grass of Home”
Net Worth and Legacy
Burl Ives was a successful artist and businessman, and his net worth at the time of his death was around $10 million. Burl’s legacy continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and performers. In 1999, he was posthumously honored by the Grammy Hall of Fame for his contribution to the music industry.
Conclusion
Burl Ives was more than just a singer; he was a cultural icon whose music touched the hearts of millions of people around the world. His life and legacy remind us of the power of music to bring people together, inspire us, and promote peace and love. Burl Ives may be gone, but his music lives on and will continue to do so for generations to come.
ncG1vNJzZminnJnBqrnEpqysoZNjsLC5jpusq6RdnsOmv4yfmJyso2Q%3D