Florence Foster Jenkins

August 1, 2016

Florence Foster Jenkins (1868-1944) was a turn-of-the-20th-century socialite and wannabe opera singer who had the wealth to support her socialite status but lacked the talent to back up her singing career. That did not stop her. Jenkins funded her own recordings and concerts, even at Carnegie Hall, and her performances routinely sold out. How bad was she? She was so bad that she was good. Her "caterwauling" and over-the-top costumes drew crowds "because it was so much fun to try to keep from laughing," according to her occasional accompanist, violinst Mozelle Bennet Sawyer. However, she was so well-liked and well-connected that no one had the heart to crucify her in print, though Milwaukee Journal critic Richard S. Davis wrote, "The mere appearance of the singer provoked a prolonged wave of titters.... And then she sang, or whatever." Although few of her recordings exist today, Barbra Streisand and other celebrities are fans. Bullock's (The World's Worst Records, Vols. 1 & 2) slight but well-researched biography will be released in conjunction with a film about Jenkins starring Meryl Streep, so expect revived interest, something that would have pleased the singer greatly. VERDICT The buzz about the movie will no doubt create demand for information on this little-known character. For most collections.--Rosellen Brewer, Sno-Isle Libs., Marysville, WA

Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 1, 2016
Called the worst opera singer of all time, she couldn't carry a tune in a bucket, as Bullock lovingly writes. But despite her obvious limitations, Florence Foster Jenkins, the self-proclaimed coloratura soprano, was a beloved celebrity in her day, capturing the public's imagination. Cole Porter was a huge fan, as was David Bowie, as is Barbra Streisand. Apparently, Jenkins sincerely believed she had real talent. Her story, though, insists Bullock, is a triumphant one: she was an inspiring figure not because of her dubious talent but because she believed that with dedication and commitment she could do anything. And she did: she wrote plays, poetry, and lyrics; she supported young and emerging musicians; she designed stage sets and costumes; and she was a shrewd promoter. Her final performance was held in October 1944, at Carnegie Hall; she suffered a heart attack five days later. Bullock admiringly relates her remarkable life and story with great verve, and many more will soon discover Jenkins, thanks to the forthcoming release of a biopic starring the inimitable Meryl Streep.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)