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Blossom Dearie Obituary
Dearie died of natural causes Saturday at her Manhattan home, said her manager, Donald Schaffer. No specific cause of death was given.
"She lived for her music, and she lived to perform her music. She had impeccable taste," Schaffer said.
Born April 28, 1924, in East Durham, N.Y., Margrete Blossom Dearie dropped her first name to bolster a musical career that began with early training in piano and moved to jazz vocals. By the mid-1940s, she was a member of the Blue Flames, associated with Woody Herman's orchestra and with the Alvino Rey band.
Dearie began her solo career in postwar Paris. With an octet called the Blue Stars, she recorded a French version of the jazz standard "Lullaby of Birdland." She was briefly married to Belgian saxophonist Bobby Jaspar and later signed a six-album contract with jazz impresario Norman Granz, the owner of Verve Records. The New York Times called the resulting albums cult classics.
Dearie appeared regularly at London nightclubs in the 1960s. She founded her own label, Daffodil Records, in New York in 1974, writing the music to lyrics by Johnny Mercer and others. She gained national attention by appearing on NBC's "Today" show during its early years.
Dearie liked to poke fun at composers she thought pretentious or overrated. A favorite target was Andrew Lloyd Webber, responsible for the music for "Jesus Christ Superstar" and other hit musicals.
Her last record was the 2003 single "It's All Right to be Afraid," dedicated to victims and survivors of the Sept. 11 terror attacks. She last performed in 2006 at a cabaret in midtown Manhattan.
She is survived by an older brother, a niece and a nephew.
Copyright © 2009 The Associated Press
71 Entries
Jen Kessler
February 12, 2025
May God give you strength and comfort during this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss. Sending sincere condolences and prayers to her family and friends. She is greatly missed. Please take comfort in knowing that she touched the lives of so many.
ANGUS BROWNFIELD
November 16, 2022
Her voice may have been childlike, but her musicianship was mature and admired by many other musicians. Some of her renditions of popular songs were perfection. I'd put her "Surrey with the Fringe on Top" against any other I've ever heard.
M G
November 29, 2021
Blossom Dearie's sweet soft voice is one that should be heard by all. Her character and personality is something that would be immediately welcoming in person. Her music and piano playing helps me forget all my troubles and lifts my mood almost immediately. An absolute angel of a woman. Bless her soul!!
Margery Gonzalez
November 29, 2021
I found out I have many things similar to Dearie. Me and her have similar first names (Margery and Margrete), Born same month with very close dates, born in the same state. Wouldve loved to meet her and bring this up.. its almost fate to discover this lovely woman !
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L B
November 2, 2020
I'm too young to have grown up with Blossom Dearie. I discovered her listening to an interview on NPR's "Fresh Air" with Teri Gross. It was almost instant magic. The lovely gentle, tender and vulnerable quality of her voice and music touched my heart in a unique way and always will.
John Stagg
September 23, 2020
Blossom Dearie was brought to my attention when attending a dinner party in Sydney Australia in the 1980’s I purchased soon after and have enjoyed them ever since.
Michael Vickers
April 7, 2020
It was as a student in the 1960s that I first encountered Blossom. She had a late night show on BBC radio. She became a much-valued friend. It was not just her music--especially, "Soon It's Gonna Rain", a particular favourite--but also her manner; gentle, confidential, lightly humourous--hers was the approach of a civil and uplifting presence I greatly needed in those very demanding days. I had a small room in the top floor of a North London (Muswell Hill) Rooming House. From there I could look out over tthe lights of that great city that never sleeps. Blossom was the companion--it never occurred to me that she was not a Black woman, for she had very obvious Soul--who shared these demanding times with me--and my cat, a small, but affectionate and vocal Siamese I had acquired; a "tough guy" I had named Bogie--after the original cinema tough guy, Humphrey Bogart. Blossom has never left me. And it is thanks to our magic modern cyber-tech that tonight I can hear her as clearly and wonderfully as I did during those first encounters now nearly 60 years ago. I am so grateful. ...I miss you Blossom. And like all those others, world-wide, who've expressed their feelings here, I always will in what life here remains to me in these my late Elder years. Good night my dear.
Barry Nulph
November 1, 2017
One of a kind is an overused phrase, but in Blossom Dearie's case it is spot-on. Everyone that enjoyed her music (in case they missed this one selection of hers) should listen to Gershwin's composition "Little Jazz Bird". This is a clear, quiet and snappy performance of a beautifully simple melody created by one of our best composers. To me this is emblematic of Blossom's wonderful work.
Cartoon Man
July 11, 2017
1 x 8 =8
2 x 8 = 16
3 x 8 = 24
4 x 8 = 32
and 5 x 8 = 40, you know
6 x 8 = 48
7 x 8 = 56
8 x 8 = 64
9 x 8 = 72
and 10 x 8 = 80, that's true
Nicole Alexis
August 21, 2014
Unfortunately I didn't know blossom the jazz singer but blossom the singer of figure 8 from schoolhouse rock, I used to cry when I heard it at 7 years old not understanding that it was because her voice was so beautiful. I got into her music after she died but boy was she a beautiful spirit. Her voice was a gift.
Don Wallace
November 29, 2013
I discovered Ms Dearie while on a flight, in 2003, I will forever be a fan. She will live on in our hearts. I was really saddened to hear of her passing.
James Patterson
June 17, 2013
Fell in love with this performer's albums and saddened that she left us before I had a chance to see her.
Peggy Kennedy
December 19, 2012
Because of you and Dorly Wang, I can always reach back and "Touch the Hand of Love"...immeasurable thanks.
Your soul shines brightly.
RIP
Howard H
November 20, 2012
I remember going to a midtown gig with my wife to see Blossom. It was an intimate venue and we loved it and her music . I bought one of her cd's and she signed it for me and my partner. I loved her beautiful music, her playfulness and lyrical skill. I play her music and always think of her at the piano when I do , so assured and so brimming with joyful sound . Never forgotten her and so glad I met her. She has no equal.
BLAZEJ NIKODEM DZIKI
October 24, 2012
ENJOYED YOUR CONCERTS IN AUSTRALIA IN THE 1970S ---ONE CLASSY DAME
Phil Newsum
November 29, 2011
I can't say enough to express the loss I feel because I discovered her late in life. Never had the opportunity to hear her in person. When I hear her my eyes want to water. Well I guess that's life isn't it?
Thomas DiMattia
December 30, 2010
I feel like crying that she is gone, but the hope she expresses keeps me focused to continue on . . .
Brenda Callaghan
August 20, 2010
I first saw Blossom Dearie on BBC tv in early sixties. I thought she was just fantastic. Then she seemed to vanish, and I moved to London. But I never forget her and found a cd a few years ago. Lovely
July 13, 2010
Gone but not forgotten. To have such a beautiful gift and to use such a gift to entertain other is a blessing in itself.
He is healing the broken hearted ones, and is binding up their painful spots.
VANESSA FALABELLA::
May 8, 2010
Thank God I got a chance to see her performances a couple of times in Midtown Manhattan. SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL!
Steve Track
March 30, 2010
figure 8 coached me to be a math major when all were against it, until now, thank you, ........I just placed it on its side... it became infinity
Rita Weill
March 5, 2010
I was lucky enough to be able to hear her every night for a couple of years; I worked at a Jazz club in LA where she regularly sang. She was responsible for my first trip to France. The lady was class incarnate.
Rita Weill Byxbe
Glenn Thorpe
February 22, 2010
Some years ago now, but still clearly in my memory, are two of the most memorable performances of Ms Dearie. She sang both for you and with you as if she'd just called in to say, "Hello".
What a magical talent and personality all the while seemingly connected to her adoring fans.
It's nice to see someone like Ms Dearie enjoy such immense talent whilst keeping her head.
Jane Siddall
February 12, 2010
A beautiful free spirit who was a joy to listen to. RIP Blossom
Tim
February 7, 2010
Thank you so much for teaching me mathematics. You made math easier and a lot more fun. Rest in Peace. "Place it on its side and you'll get eternity."
Roger G.J.Haffenden
January 30, 2010
Blossom was so brilliant and unigue in her art That I used to get goose-bumps everytime I heard her. I really was a great fan. So sad that she has now left us..Keep singing in Heaven, little girl.
Roger Haffenden. Kent, England.(75)
Michael Spring
November 23, 2009
Beautiful voice, beautiful piano-playing - both evidence of the awesome power of understatement.
George Dodd
October 12, 2009
Staggering in her virtuosity, I'm now crying at my (computer) keyboard.
Oh, and I'm 56 and still wish I had one hundredth of her creativity or technique. RIP, a true legend, and also an inspiration.
October 12, 2009
Staggering in her virtuosity, I'm now crying at my (computer) keyboard.
Oh, and I'm 56 and still wish I had one hundredth of her creativity or technique. RIP, a true legend.
Phil Newsum
August 24, 2009
Well, I know we couldn't keep you forever. As a drummer, I would have loved to have worked with you. There isn't much left of the music that we cherished. Times change along twith tastes. I will forever miss your grace and charm, even though I never knew you personally, I still have your music.
Lars Carlsson
July 30, 2009
Thank you Blossom for all the joy you have given me through your music ever since I first heard you at a jazzfestival in Umeå, Sweden. You´ve been a great part of my music listening
since then and I´m trying to get hold of as many of your recordings as possible. You were just great and I know that you now have a leading voice among the angels in heaven!
Veronika
June 28, 2009
The Shape of Things was the song, heard many years ago, was what brought me to Blossom in 2008. Only now, thanks to Youtube have I had the opportunity to enjoy her talents. Wonderful voice, great piano - truly a flower. Thank you, Blossom, for your great legacy.
Reuben Shapiro
June 23, 2009
I first heard Blossom sing on a King Pleasure record about 40 years ago and from that moment on I was hooked. So unique...so talented. I treasure the recordings she made. Thank you Blossom.
Louis Smith
May 10, 2009
Blossom, you are my favourite Singer. I once told someone it was Nina Simone but I lied. You are the most influential Jazz singer/songwriter to me because I’ve listened to you almost exclusively during some of the toughest times in my life and you know when, if you're going through a tough time and you can't listen to a particular song or another, well that's not the case with you and I. You're special, to use an old cliché, one of a kind. One of my ambitions was to come and see you play at Danny's in New York, but I was always too busy. Well isn't that a lesson learned. Although you don't even know I exist, I’m really sad that you've died and I hope to carry your music on into the future, which you always encouraged so much in your writing and from what I gather in your life. You are loved and missed.
Ari Copeland
April 27, 2009
The world lost a huge amount of talent on Feb. 7th. RIP Blossom.
Andrea Bersson
March 26, 2009
I met Blossom in the late 70's in NY performing in the clubs of the day - She was wonderful, I still listen to and play her music on my public radio show Jazz a la Carte.
dick lonergan
March 19, 2009
I listened to blossom over many years whenever I could. Exquisite taste and choice of backing musicians. A total delight. She was a favourite in london. She wrote "Sweet Georgie Fame" for the English singer and pianist. He reciprocated later with "Blossom". She left her audiences always wanting more ........so much talent.....RIP.
Dave Zinn
March 15, 2009
Thank you Blossom Dearie, you made my heart sing every time I heard you sing!
Henry Wheeler
March 2, 2009
I've never been more saddened to hear of the passing of a music celebrity than I was with the news of Blossom. I'm dedicating my two hour jazz show tonight in her memory, and will play every recording I have of hers. Good-bye, dear Blossom...you brought so much pleasure to so many for so long, and your music will continue to do so....
Cyro Menna Barreto
February 24, 2009
I've first heard about this wonderful singer not a week ago, on a local jazz station.
How could I have missed such delicious voice, such good taste?
Her talent certainly deserved more coverage.
Dear Blossom, I've only known you for a week, but I miss you already.
Charles Tenaglia
February 24, 2009
I first saw her on the ol' Jack Paar Tonight Show and later, many times, at the Top-of-the-Gate. I have most of her albums. She was one-of-a-kind. The best. I will miss her.
Carol Kwasny
February 23, 2009
Her voice was so distinctive and recognizable. I am reminded that her recorded songs will be played again and again since her talent has now been noticed by the 30 somethings. She will live on for me in the wondrous songs she gave us. Thanks for the jazz, Blossom!
James Poulos
February 21, 2009
One of the very great music originals of the last 100 years, and people will still be listening a hundred years from now. From the man who plays your "Pro Musica Antiqua" whenever the day needs a saucy brightening.
Lynne Jackson
February 21, 2009
From your lips to God's ear...
-Lynne & Mike
Mary Susan MacDonald
February 19, 2009
Blossom Dearie gave tremendously to this world with her great talent and her gentle yet distinctive style. She was an original.
Ms Dearie will, on the one hand, always be missed. On the other, she will always be remembered and enjoyed.
I am most grateful to have had the good fortune to be introduced to this wonderful and exemplary musician.
Heartfelt condolences to Blossom Dearie's Family and dear friends.
Benita
February 19, 2009
I always thought I'd have another chance to see her---she was seemingly always around. I am grateful for the many times I did see her. She was sui generis---there will never be another like her. She did it all her way and what a fabulous way that was. Thank you, Blossom, for all you gave.
Bob Concilio
February 16, 2009
Goodbye, dear friend. I love you and miss you.
Philip Pomerance
February 16, 2009
She was one of the great interpreters of American jazz. She was graceful, and always courteous; I loved that she would introduce new songs and songwriters and promote them every chance she could get. She also demanded a smoke-free, quiet performance space long before it was fashionable. If you only know her from "Schoolhouse Rock", there is a Verve "Jazz Masters" compilation that serves pretty much as a "best of" collection.
Blossom, I know you are up in heaven playing and singing, and I hope someone is there to peel you a grape!
Jessica Davis
February 13, 2009
So sorry to hear this. She was one of the greats. Lovely and unique. She will be missed.
Peter
February 13, 2009
Witty and wistful, you were a truly unique artist who always reminds me of my teenage years in the 1960's "When the World was Young".
Susan
February 13, 2009
I saw her perform at Danny's just before her 80th birthday. She left us a legacy of wonderful music in her remarkably long career. Condolences to her family and those close to her.
La Rue Howard
February 12, 2009
Blossom Dearie,
You were my favorite little jazz bird
Angela
February 12, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of Blossom Dearie's passing. May God's promise to bring an end to suffering help you at this difficult time.
(Revelation 21:4) And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”
Chele
February 12, 2009
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Judith Buhrow
February 12, 2009
I am devastated by the news of her death. I only found her about three years ago when a friend played one of her cd's for me. I have since bought any I could find and play them continuously. I had hoped to someday see her perform. She kept me sane through many sad episodes in my life. I am so sad.
Jimmy Parsons
February 12, 2009
I had the very great privilege of being Blossom's manager during her many trips to London starting in the late 60's. It was I who arranged her first engagement at Ronnie Scotts Club and the live recordings made of her appearnces there. Blossom became a dear friend and the news of her death saddens me greatly. As an example of her unique talent may I recommend the first of the live recordings at Ronnie's to those who missed seeing her in person. She was magic.
Goodbye Blossom and thank you for the time we shared together.
Graham Pearson
February 12, 2009
Your music will be enjoyed forever. God bless.
Noel Cahill
February 11, 2009
What a shock it is to hear of the death of Blossom Dearie. I first heard Blossom Dearie when she performed at the Cork Jazz Festival in the early 80s. I fell in love with her music and since then collected some of her albums. I especially like her humorous songs such as "Rhode Island is famous for you"
God bless you, Blossom Dearie, and God Bless your family and friends.
S, Craig Yamasaki
February 11, 2009
I was so saddened to hear of Blossom Dearie's passing. As a former bandboy for the Duke Ellington Orchestra, I have been blessed to have witness so many wonderful singers perform, however, I feel particularly blessed to have been able to enjoy Blossom's performances when she appeared on the West Coast. Her phrasing and delivery of songs was unsurpassed. With Blossom, less was so much more, and the unique timbre and character of her voice is something I shall long miss. Thank goodness that she so wisely chose to perform and record as long as she did. God Bless You Blossom-Rest in Peace!
Pinckney-Daniels
February 11, 2009
Our condolences are offered to the Dearie family on your dear loss.
(John 5:28,29)
February 10, 2009
Thanks for your friendship Blossom and all of the wonderful music through the years, forty for me.
I'm missing you.
Love Jessie Glasser
Auckland, New Zealand
Bob MacDonald
February 10, 2009
Always great listening. I'll miss the voice! Thanks, for the memories!
D. ZIMMERMAN
February 10, 2009
REST IN PEACE BLOSSOM DEARIE
Elizabeth Porter
February 10, 2009
Blossom, I'll never forget your work as a vocalist on "Schoolhouse Rock". I'll always remember your pretty voice singing "Unpack Your Adjectives" and "Figure Eight". You sounded so young and fresh, a great inspiration to performers of the present and future.
Robert J. Cookish
February 10, 2009
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Blossom Dearie.I only knew her from,and this was'nt noted in her obit,the SchoolHouse Rock series growing up in the 70's.She sang two songs,The Adjective Song,and Figure Eight.I also saw her perform on The Tomorrow Show with Tom Snyder and The Merv Griffin Show.I plan to look for more of her music on YouTube and maybe download some albums.It's sad you start to appreciate someone you have'nt seen or heard in a while and they pass away.But with all this new technology we can hold to their memories forever.Having suffered the recent loss of my youngest brother those memories become more precious.My condolences to the family and friends of Blossom Dearie.God Bless.
Mary Ambrose
February 10, 2009
I have enjoyed Miss Dearie's music since first hearing on my cabel tv music channel about 10 years ago. She had a huge talent and I hope her family is comforted knowing that while she is gone - her music will live on.
Jessica Campbell
February 10, 2009
Thank you for your music. My husband's aunt got us hooked on your music a few years back; now we enjoy listening to you with our young daughter. It's truly a delight to hear you sing.
Deborah Geary-Aks
February 10, 2009
What an amazing talent! Thank you for sharing it with us. My sympathies to the family and friends of Ms. Dearie.
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