Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular Music

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PEARL, Minnie

(b Sarah Orphelia Colley, 25 Oct. '12, Centerville TN; d 4 March '96) The leading comedienne in country music for more than 40 years, with her flower-bedecked hat, long country dresses, high-pitched 'Howdee!' and patter about 'ketchin' a feller'. Dancing and acting were first loves; she studied stage technique at college in Nashville, directed amateur plays in schools, developed comedy routines, joined Grand Ole Opry c'40. She toured with most of the big country stars, incl. Carnegie Hall '47; appeared on Dean Martin, Carol Burnett, Mike Douglas, Joey Bishop TV shows etc. She made the odd record on Everest, RCA, Starday, but her comedy was visual in impact. She was named Nashville's Woman of the Year '65, to CMA Hall of Fame '75.