​Evelyn Dove was a true trailblazer. She was the first black British woman to be broadcast on BBC radio and the first to host a music series on BBC television. 

 

She travelled the world performing in America, across Europe and India. A highly educated and sophisticated woman, Evelyn's linguistic skills were remarkable; performing songs in Italian, German, French, and Spanish. She gained national recognition, equal to that of Vera Lynn as a forces sweetheart through her many broadcasts during the second world war. She replaced Josephine Baker as the star in a revue at the Casino de Paris. 

 

She was an extremely versatile singer, a contralto who trained at the Royal Academy Of Music as a classical singer, but went on to be equally comfortable singing spirituals, calypso, jazz, blues and popular songs. Born in Endell street, in the heart of London’s west end, Evelyn spent much of her childhood living on Barnard Road in Battersea, her former home is now proudly commemorated with a blue plaque, Evelyn’s story continues to inspire the local community.

 

This special evening will celebrate her remarkable career through stunning live performances that bring her story and music to life.It is our honor to celebrate her legacy through this performance.

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The World Heart Beat band is led by jazz pianist Ayo Vincent, who has arranged and curated the program.