Ruth Etting

Ruth Etting (1897-1978) was an American singer and actress, renowned for her work in the early 20th century. Often associated with the genres of traditional pop and jazz, Etting gained popularity during the 1920s and 1930s. She was known for her sweet, clear voice and charming stage presence, earning the nickname "The Sweetheart of the Radio." Notable works include hits like "Love Me or Leave Me," "Shine On, Harvest Moon," and "My Blue Heaven." Her recordings, particularly in the 1920s, showcased the emerging jazz style and the popular song format of the time. Etting was also a prominent figure in film, appearing in several musicals and contributing to the soundtrack of the 1929 film "The Singing Fool." Etting's impact on music lies in her ability to bridge the gap between vaudeville and the burgeoning popular music scene, influencing subsequent generations of singers. Her style and performances helped to popularize the American songbook, and she remains a significant figure in the history of American music. Her life story, including her tumultuous marriage to gangster Martin "Moe" Snyder, was later dramatized in the 1955 film "Love Me or Leave Me."