This is the first Who’s Who that deals with the world of Jazz, Cabaret, and Entertainment. It is astonishing that this is the case, since such a book is urgently needed for an industry that brings such joy to all of us. It should serve as  reference for performers, promoters, publicists, booking agents, venue owners, students, schools, libraries, and music industry executives, as well as the general public. Those who read who’s who books, whether they are in science, medicine, literature,  and world personalities and celebrities, easily find one common denominator: Who’s who books are dry and stiff. Rarely do we see warmth and personal touch in those highly respected reference works. Effort was made to avoid this tendency in the World Who’s Who in Jazz, Cabaret, Music and Entertainment. Although it is based upon rigid fact and data, found in or supplied by reliable sources, including those who are written up in this book, personal feelings and material were added. To accomplish this, the world of the artist that is not usually seen on stage or behind the mic was probed. Sometimes candid and personal stories, anecdotes, and intimate statements were either provided directly by the artist or told by friends and peers. After all, this is a world of enchantment, glamour, and fun – and so it cannot be treated like a mathematical formula! In traditional who’s who books, those listed are usually figures well known to the public or in their own field.

In this Who’s Who you will meet, on equal basis, mega stars and celebrities, as well as outstanding talents you have never heard of. This book is not based on fame and fortune alone, but also on merit. There are over two million performers in the world. Just in New York, we have over nine thousand performers and entertainers. In California, approximately eight thousands. Even in Hawaii, we have almost one hundred and twenty five cabaret singers. Consequently, it is impossible to include all of them in 6 volumes volumes. This book brings to you those who are believed to be the best in the business. However, this is only the first edition. In future editions, which would follow on a yearly basis, many more performers will be included. Please feel free to suggest your own name, or those of others whom you admire and feel are worth mentioning in the future editions of the World Who’s Who in Jazz, Cabaret, Music and Entertainment. Every suggestion will receive serious consideration.