| Quick Info | |
|---|---|
| Name | Ethel Ennis |
| Date of Birth | November 28, 1932 |
| Profession | Jazz Musician |
| Place of Birth | Baltimore |
| Home Town | Maryland |
| Country | United States |
| Awards | Maryland Women’s Hall of Fame |
| Date of Death | 2019-02-17 |
| Place of Death | Baltimore, MD |
| Manner of Death | Stroke |
| Institute | Frederick Douglass High School |
| Siblings | Andy Ennis |
Early Life and Influences
Ethel Ennis was born on November 28, 1932, in Baltimore, Maryland. Growing up in a musically inclined family, Ennis was exposed to jazz at a young age. Her father played the guitar, her mother sang in the church choir, and her brother Andy was a talented saxophonist. Ennis attended Frederick Douglass High School, where she honed her musical skills and began performing in local clubs.
Rise to Fame
Ennis’s talent quickly caught the attention of jazz enthusiasts in Baltimore, and she soon began performing at renowned venues such as the Club Casino and the Royal Theater. In 1953, she released her debut album, “Lullabies for Losers,” which garnered critical acclaim and solidified her reputation as a rising star in the jazz scene.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Ennis toured extensively, sharing the stage with jazz legends such as Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, and Louis Armstrong. Her soulful voice and impeccable musical talent captivated audiences around the world, earning her a dedicated fan base and widespread recognition.
Impact on Civil Rights Movement
As an African American woman in a predominantly white male-dominated industry, Ennis faced numerous challenges and barriers throughout her career. However, she used her platform to advocate for racial equality and social justice. Ennis’s music became a powerful tool for expressing the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement, inspiring hope and unity among listeners.
Personal Life and Legacy
Despite her success in the music industry, Ennis remained humble and grounded throughout her life. She maintained close relationships with her siblings, particularly her brother Andy, who often accompanied her on tour. Ennis’s untimely death on February 17, 2019, due to a stroke, left a void in the jazz community, but her legacy continues to inspire aspiring musicians and jazz enthusiasts around the world.
Net Worth 2024
While Ethel Ennis’s exact net worth in 2024 is difficult to determine, it is clear that her wealth primarily came from her successful music career. Ennis earned money through album sales, concert tours, and royalties from her music. Additionally, she may have received income from endorsements, sponsorships, and other business ventures related to her musical talents.
Summary
Ethel Ennis was a legendary jazz musician whose soulful voice and impeccable musical talent captivated audiences around the world. From her humble beginnings in Baltimore to her rise to fame in the jazz scene, Ennis left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her impact on the civil rights movement and her role as a trailblazer for women in jazz continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans. Despite her untimely death, Ennis’s legacy lives on through her timeless music and enduring influence.