Lee 'Lasses' White

Leroy Robert White, born on August 28, 1888, and affectionately known as Lee "Lasses" White, was a multifaceted American entertainer whose talents spanned vaudeville, songwriting, acting, and radio. Gaining prominence in the early 1900s, White was particularly noted for his performances in minstrel shows, where he showcased his exceptional skills as a pianist and performer. One of his significant contributions to music was the creation of "Nigger Blues," which is recognized as one of the earliest copyrighted twelve-bar blues compositions.

After carving out a successful niche in radio, White made the transition to the film industry in the late 1930s. Over the course of his career, which lasted approximately eleven years, he appeared in more than 70 films, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment landscape of his time. His versatile talents not only entertained audiences but also helped shape the evolution of African American music and performance arts in the 20th century.

Lee "Lasses" White passed away on December 16, 1949, but his legacy as a pioneering figure in vaudeville and film continues to be celebrated. His work not only represents a significant chapter in American entertainment history but also reflects the cultural shifts of his era.