Before Classical Crossover became the genre we know today, many different artists helped influence and popularize the sound. Many legitimate singers were able to achieve mainstream popularity on the big screen or by crossing over to musicals.
Here are some of the most notable voices who can be said to be early influences of the genre.
Those who believe classical crossover is a modern development need only to go back to the career of Jeanette McDonald to see that its influence has long been felt. Back in the 1900’s classical training in popular singers was far from unusual. Jeanette sang arias and brought operetta classics like…
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From her first appearance on the silver screen in 1936 in Three Smart Girls (the film that would save Universal from bankruptcy), Deanna Durbin was America’s sweetheart. Among her legions of fans were Maria Callas, Joan Sutherland and Winston Churchill! Deanna retired in 1948 to pursue a normal life and…
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American Baritone Nelson Eddy (1901 – 1967) was the highest-paid singer in his day. His appeal spanned both fans of opera and popular music. He is said to have had a repertoire of 28 operas but also found success on the silver screen with Jeanette MacDonald in Naughty Marietta and…
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One of the most famous examples of classical crossover at it’s finest. Possessing a wonderful instrument Mario Lanza attempted to fulfill an operatic career in addition to his work in films. He is said to have influenced the three tenors and he remains one of the best-loved tenors in modern…
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Kathryn Grayson was classically trained from twelve years old but is best remembered for her roles in films like “Show Boat” and “Kiss Me Kate” as well as being a supporting star to Mario Lanza in “The Toast of New Orleans.” She would later fulfill some of her operatic dreams…
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Poised to take on Deanna Durbin’s ingenue status, Jane Powell brought her own brand of magic to films from 1944 onwards. Some of her most famous films include “A Date with Judy” (starring a young Elizabeth Taylor), “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” and “Royal Wedding.” Like Durbin before her, Jane…
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Howard Keel’s career took off in the time when the distinction between Broadway and Classical singers was far more blurry than with more contemporary musical theater. This American bass-baritone was featured in many MGM Musicals including “Showboat” “Kiss me Kate” “Seven Wives for Seven Brothers” and “Kismet.” He made his screen…
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Ann Blyth was a celebrated actress and even Oscar-nominated for her role in Mildred Pierce (also starring Joan Crawford). Her voice featured in musicals like Kismet and the celebrated film ‘The Young Caruso.’ Read Jennie Water’s article “Hollywood Soprano” from our Spring-Summer 2017 Issue
It seems the whole world fell in love with Julie Andrews in Sound of Music which was cleverly marketed as ‘The Happiest Sound in the World.’ She also originated the role of Eliza Dolittle on Broadway as well as Guinevere in Camelot. She is also known for the classic Mary…
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The beautiful soprano Shirley Jones is beloved for her roles in several classic musicals including, “Carousel,” “Oklahoma” and “The Music Man.” She is known as being the only singer Rodgers & Hammerstein ever put under personal contract.