- Born
- Died
- Birth nameWilliam Clarence Eckstein
- Nickname
- Mr. B
- Billy Eckstine was born on July 8, 1914 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. He was an actor, known for Fido (2006), Detroit (2017) and Skirts Ahoy! (1952). He was married to Carolle Drake and June Harris. He died on March 8, 1993 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
- SpousesCarolle Drake(1953 - November 1976) (divorced, 7 children)June Harris(June 1942 - July 30, 1953) (divorced)
- Children
- Singer, trumpeter and valve trombonist. First came to note with the band of Earl 'Fatha' Hines in the 1930's. Formed his own bebop-oriented band in 1943 on the advice of Budd Johnson. Most recordings the band made were of ballads, sung by Eckstine in his trademark deep baritone voice.
- Inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame in 1985.
- He was awarded a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Recording at 6638 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California.
- He was a close friend of jazz singer Sarah Vaughan.
- Went on to record for Motown and Stax records in the 1960's.
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