Ruth Etting

Ruth Etting (November 23, 1896 – September 24, 1978) was a prominent American singer and actress, celebrated during the 1920s and 1930s, with an impressive catalog of over 60 hit recordings. Often referred to as "America's sweetheart of song," she captivated audiences with her memorable performances. Among her signature songs are classics like "Shine On, Harvest Moon," "Ten Cents a Dance," and "Love Me or Leave Me." Other notable tracks include "Button Up Your Overcoat," "Mean to Me," "Exactly Like You," and "Shaking the Blues Away."

Etting's Hollywood career was marked by a series of short films from 1929 to 1936, alongside three feature films released in 1933 and 1934. In 1936, she took her talents to London, performing in Ray Henderson's musical, Transatlantic Rhythm.

Her life story inspired the 1955 film Love Me or Leave Me, featuring Doris Day as Etting and James Cagney as her husband, Moe Snyder. Both Etting and Snyder, along with Myrl Alderman, sold the rights to their story to MGM. Toward the end of her life, Etting expressed her belief that actress Jane Powell would have been a more fitting portrayal of her character.

In recognition of her contributions to the entertainment industry, Etting was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, located on the north side of the 6500 block of Hollywood Boulevard.