Burl Ives

Burl Ives (June 14, 1909 – April 14, 1995) was an American singer, actor, and author. He is known for his deep, resonant voice and his performances of traditional American folk songs, including "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" and "A-Rovin'." Ives also had a successful acting career, appearing in over 100 films and television shows.

Ives was born in Jasper County, Illinois, and grew up in a musical family. He began singing and playing the guitar at an early age, and he eventually dropped out of school to pursue a career in music. In the 1930s, Ives traveled around the country, performing at folk festivals and on radio shows. He also began recording albums, and his first hit single, "Little Bitty Baby," was released in 1946.

In the 1950s, Ives's career took off. He appeared in several popular films, including "Easter Parade" (1948), "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" (1953), and "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" (1958). He also hosted a popular television show, "Burl Ives Sings," which ran from 1954 to 1956.

In the 1960s, Ives continued to act and perform, but he also began to write children's books. His first book, "The Wayfaring Stranger," was published in 1963, and it was followed by several other successful titles.

Ives continued to work until his death in 1995. He was 85 years old. He is remembered as one of the most popular and influential folk singers of all time, and his music continues to be enjoyed by people around the world.

Here are some additional facts about Burl Ives:

• He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof."
• He won two Grammy Awards for Best Folk Performance.
• He was awarded the National Medal of the Arts in 1993.
• He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
• He is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.