Laine, Cleo (1927–)

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Laine, Cleo (1927–)

British jazz musician. Name variations: Dame Cleo Laine. Born Clementina Dinah Campbell, Oct 28, 1927, in Middlesex, England; m. George Langridge, 1947 (div.); m. John Dankworth (bandleader), 1958; children: (1st m.) 1 son; (2nd m.) 2, including Jacqui Dankworth (actress-singer).

Renowned for extraordinary vocal range, command of phrasing, and vocal versatility, joined Dankworth Orchestra (1953) and achieved success in recordings and on tv; appeared on stage in, among others, Dankworth's Lady in Waiting, Sondheim's Into the Woods, and the BBC Prom's production of Britten's Noyes Fludde; was 1st British artist to win Grammy (1983). Nominated for a Tony Award as Best Actress for The Mystery of Edwin Drood (1986).