Sammy Davis, Jr.

Samuel George “Sammy” Davis, Jr., simply known as Sammy Davis Jr., was an acclaimed American entertainer of the 20th century. Born in Harlem, New York, on December 8, 1925, Davis spent the better half of his life enjoying the rare skill of making other people happy. While he was primarily a singer and dancer, he was also an actor (stage and screen), musician, and impressionist. He mainly derived his passion for dancing from his father and uncle, with whom he was to form the Will Mastin Trio. One of the main themes highlighted in his performances was that of racism, as he was also a long-standing victim of racial prejudices throughout his life.

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When Davis was only three years old, he formed the Will Mastin Trio with his father and uncle and toured nationally--giving some exceptional performances. During World War II, he was assigned to an Entertainment Special Services Unit, as his talents were especially recognized by the military. Such was the profoundness of his performances that his acts were even well-received and applauded by White servicemen. After the war, he re-joined the family group, often the sole recipient of endless standing ovations for his mesmerizing performances. His voice was admired to a great extent, which eventually led to him being selected to sing the soundtrack for the Universal Pictures film Six Bridges to Cross in 1954. Around the same time, Davis also had a starring role in the Broadway play Mr. Wonderful (1956), which furthered hi