Trivia

Producers of the movie Ghost originally wanted her for the part of Oda Mae Brown but Patrick Swayze insisted they cast Whoopi Goldberg instead.

Once a backup singer for Harry Belafonte.

At 21, was picked by Billy Rose for the part of Frascetta in his 1943 Broadway production of "Carmen Jones".

Member of the Helen Way Singers in the 1950s, did session singing, most notably "Early In The Morning" for Buddy Holly in 1958.

Nominated for Broadway's 1985 Tony Award as Best Actress (Featured Role

• Play) for August Wilson's "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom".

Was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

As a teen appeared on a radio show, specifically targeting black audiences, entitled "Parisian Tailor's Colored Kiddie Hour".

Studied at the Settlement School of Music in Philadelphia and at Temple University and New York University.

Has two grandchildren, Justin Bullock-Hines, and Patti Hines.

Has one great-grandchild, Lucas Bullock-Hines, the son of Justin and his wife, Halley.