Linda Hopkins

Linda Hopkins, born Melinda Helen Matthews on December 14, 1924, in New Orleans, Louisiana, was a celebrated American actress and singer whose talents spanned the genres of blues, gospel, R&B, and jazz. A Tony Award winner, her career was a vibrant tapestry of performances that showcased her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence.

Growing up in Zion City, New Orleans, as the daughter of Reverend Fred Matthews, Sr. and Hazel Smith, she was immersed in music from a young age. At just eleven, she caught the attention of renowned gospel singer Mahalia Jackson after performing "God Shall Wipe Your Tears Away" at her home church. This encounter led to her joining the Southern Harp Spiritual Singers for ten years.

Hopkins left New Orleans in the 1950s and adopted the stage name Linda Hopkins while performing at Slim Jenkins' Night Club. Her career flourished with tours across Hawaii and Japan, including a collaboration with Louis Armstrong. In 1960, she toured Europe in the Broadway production of Jazz Train, and she achieved a significant milestone with her hit single "Shake a Hand," which reached #21 on the US Billboard R&B chart.

Throughout the 1970s, she starred in the Broadway musical Purlie and performed for President Jimmy Carter's inaugural ball. Her one-woman show, Me and Bessie, celebrated Bessie Smith and earned rave reviews during its Broadway run. Hopkins’ remarkable contributions to theater and music left an indelible mark on American culture until her passing on April 10, 2017.