Mahalia Jackson

American gospel singer,
Born October 26, 1911 in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Died January 27, 1972 in Evergreen Park, Chicago, Illinois, USA
Credited as being the “Queen of Gospel.” In a career spanning 40 years, Jackson was integral to the development and spread of gospel blues in black churches throughout the United States. During a time when racial segregation was pervasive in American society, she met considerable and unexpected success in a recording career selling, she estimated, 22 million records and sang before integrated and secular audiences in concert halls around the world. At the funeral of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., she performed "Precious Lord", his favorite hymn which he had requested. She was Inducted into Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.