Billie Holiday
Breakthrough Years
1933
Discovered by record producer John Hammond, Billie Holiday made her first commercial recordings with Benny Goodman and his orchestra. This marked her official entry into the music industry and the beginning of her prolific recording career.
1937
Holiday began a series of highly successful recordings with Teddy Wilson's orchestra, producing many jazz classics. She also joined Count Basie's orchestra, gaining wider national recognition through extensive tours across the United States.
1939
Holiday recorded the controversial and powerful song 'Strange Fruit,' which became a signature piece and a defining moment in her career. Released on Commodore Records, it cemented her reputation as an artist willing to tackle profound social issues.