Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer Poster

Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer 2007

★ 7.02 votes90 min📅 2007-04-30

"She survived it all to become one of the world's great jazz singers"

Dive into the raw, unfiltered journey of Anita O'Day in *Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer* (2007), a gripping documentary directed by Robbie Cavolina.

Director: Robbie Cavolina

Cast

Anita O'Day
Anita O'Day
Herself
Buddy Bregman
Buddy Bregman
Himself
Leonard Feather
Himself
Will Friedwald
Himself
Johnny Mandel
Johnny Mandel
Himself
John Cameron Mitchell
John Cameron Mitchell
Himself
Annie Ross
Annie Ross
Herself
George Wein
Himself
Margaret Whiting
Herself
Gerald Wilson
Himself

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer (2007) about?

This documentary chronicles the life of jazz icon Anita O'Day, showcasing her journey from a troubled past to becoming one of the most celebrated vocalists of the 20th century. It delves into her struggles with addiction, legal issues, and personal challenges that shaped her groundbreaking career.

Who directed Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer?

The film was directed by Robbie Cavolina, who brings a compelling narrative focus to O'Day's extraordinary story.

Who stars in Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer?

The documentary features insights from Anita O'Day herself, alongside interviews with Buddy Bregman, Leonard Feather, Will Friedwald, and John Cameron Mitchell.

Is Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer (2007) worth watching?

For jazz enthusiasts and fans of inspiring biographical films, this documentary offers a gripping blend of history, music, and resilience. Its focus on O'Day's perseverance makes it a compelling watch for those interested in the behind-the-scenes stories of legendary artists.

How long is Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer?

The documentary runs for 90 minutes.

About Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer (2007) — The untold story of a jazz legend's triumphs and trials

Dive into the raw, unfiltered journey of Anita O'Day in *Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer* (2007), a gripping documentary directed by Robbie Cavolina. This film traces the extraordinary life of one of jazz's most iconic voices, from her tumultuous childhood to her rise as a trailblazing performer. Overcoming early struggles—including a botched surgery that redefined her vocal style—O'Day battled poverty, addiction, and legal troubles to carve her place in music history. With a percussive, energetic delivery that defied convention, she redefined jazz singing and left an indelible mark on the genre.

Through candid interviews with contemporaries like Buddy Bregman and Leonard Feather, the documentary paints a vivid portrait of O'Day's resilience and genius. The film captures the gritty, glamorous world of mid-20th-century jazz, where ambition and hardship intertwined. With archival footage and personal anecdotes, *Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer* is a celebration of artistic passion and survival.