Billie Holiday (1915–1959), known as Lady Day, was one of the most influential jazz vocalists of the twentieth century. Her collaborations with saxophonist Lester Young and recordings including Strange Fruit (1939) and Lady Sings the Blues (1956) cemented her place as a defining figure in American music.
A table card from the Downbeat Club, Market Street, San Francisco, advertising a residency by Billie Holiday and Willie Smith, the saxophonist. Circa 1948–49. Unfolded, the card measures approximately 9.5 x 5.75 inches, with printed red lettering on a pale yellow background.
The card has been inscribed and signed by Billie Holiday, who has written "For Kell, Best always" in an expansive, flowing hand. Also signed by Willie Smith (whose ink is noticeably darker) and Jerome Richardson. Willie Smith later contributed to the album Lady Sings the Blues.
Condition: Good overall, with some light spots and minor finger-marks. One small pin-hole to each of the two top corners. All three signatures clear and in ink.
