Kate Smith
Kate Smith Background information Birth name Kathryn Elizabeth Smith Born (1907-05-01)May 1, 1907 Greenville, Virginia, United States Died June 17, 1986(1986-06-17) (aged 79) Raleigh, North Carolina, United States Occupation(s) Singer Instruments Vocals Years active 1926–1976 Labels RCA Victor Savoy Records Kathryn Elizabeth Smith (May 1, 1907 – June 17, 1986), known professionally as Kate Smith and The First Lady of Radio, was an American singer, a contralto, best known for her rendition of Irving Berlin's "God Bless America". She had a radio, television, and recording career spanning five decades, which reached its pinnacle in the 1940s. Smith became known as The Songbird of the South after her enduring popularity during World War II and contribution to American culture and patriotism.