Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular Music

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

LYNN, Vera

(b Vera Welch, 20 March 1917, West Ham, London; d 18 June 2020, Ditchling) The most durable of UK vocalists. Joined dancing troupe age eleven, formed own troupe at 15. Became band singer, making first broadcast with Joe Loss '35. With Charlie Kunz 18 months, then Ambrose; went solo '41. Appeared in Apple Sauce revue at London Palladium; radio series Sincerely Yours aimed at servicemen; toured war zones singing hits like 'White Cliffs Of Dover' and 'We'll Meet Again', was called the Forces' Sweetheart. Retired temporarily late '45 to early '47; first US hits 'You Can't Be True, Dear' and 'Again' ('47-8). Starred in London Laughs at Adelphi theatre for two years, then became first UK female singer to have a US no. 1 with 'Auf Wiederseh'n, Sweetheart' '52, 'Yours' making USA top ten same year. Had own US radio series, plus many TV spots. No. 1 UK single 'My Son, My Son' '54; last top 20 entry 'Travellin' Home' '57. Radio, TV popularity continued; OBE '69, CBE '75: she became Dame Vera. An autobiography was Vocal Refrain '75. In 2014, a 2-CD greatest hits collection called National Treasure made her the oldest artist ever to appear in the UK charts.