Lady Sings the Blues (1972)

The essence of Billie Holiday, one of America’s most beloved and memorable jazz singers, is captured brilliantly in a tour-de-force debut performance by singer Diana Ross. Filled with the greatest songs of the incomparable “Lady Day,” director Sidney J. Furie’s stunning autobiographical drama also stars Billy Dee Williams as Louis McKay and Richard Pryor as Piano Man. The on-screen chemistry between Ross and Williams thrilled audiences and the film received five Academy Award nominations, including Diana Ross for “Best Actress.” 144mins.

Following the film, actor Billy Dee Williams will take the stage to discuss the film as well as his life and long career. Audience members will receive a copy of Mr. Williams’ New York Times bestselling autobiography “WHAT HAVE WE HERE?”

Host or Publisher USA Film Festival