In a remarkable turn of events, the debut audition records of celebrated British singer Dame Vera Lynn are set to be unveiled, 90 years after their initial recording. This exciting news comes as a result of the singer’s daughter, Virginia Lewis-Jones, generously donating her mother’s extensive record collection to the British Library’s Sound Archive. This collection offers a unique peek into the early days of Lynn’s illustrious career, cementing her status as a cultural icon.
Dame Vera Lynn, often endearingly referred to as the “Forces’ Sweetheart,” rose to fame during the tumultuous years of the Second World War. Her powerful ballads not only provided solace to soldiers and their families but also connected with the hearts of the British public. Virginia Lewis-Jones made this significant donation when she was relocating from her home in East Sussex, where the legendary singer had lived for four decades alongside her husband, Harry Lewis.
Among the treasures uncovered are three silver aluminum audition records, meticulously labeled by hand, and a significant find: a copy of Lynn’s first record, titled “It’s Home,” which was produced in 1935 with renowned bandleader Howard Baker. This particular record stands out as one of only 100 pressed, making it not only a personal artifact but a historical gem as well.
The story behind this first record is equally fascinating. After being invited by trumpeter Baker to join his band in 1933, Lynn’s career trajectory began to take shape. Reflecting on this discovery, Virginia expressed her delight in hearing her mother’s voice from the beginnings of her career. She shared her excitement, noting the unheard audition tapes hold the potential to reveal deeper insights into Lynn’s artistic journey and personal history. “It’s so wonderful to hear Ma’s voice from those early days,” Virginia remarked, emphasizing the emotional connection and nostalgia tied to these recordings.
Decca Records is slated to release the audition discs, with the first single, “What A Difference A Day Makes,” launching to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VJ Day. Fans of Dame Vera can anticipate the debut of a new album, titled “Hidden Treasures,” scheduled for release on November 7. This upcoming album will feature additional previously unheard and rare tracks from the legendary artist’s early repertoire.
Dame Vera Lynn’s musical journey was defined by iconic songs such as “We’ll Meet Again,” “(There’ll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs Of Dover,” and “There’ll Always Be An England.” Her ability to uplift spirits during trying times earned her the heartfelt title of Forces’ Sweetheart, a moniker that encapsulated her immense impact on wartime Britain. Even in her later years, she continued to enchant audiences, with her final studio album, “Unforgettable,” released in 2010. Remarkably, she passed away in June 2020 at the age of 103, having recently become the oldest artist to achieve a top 40 album in the UK with her compilation “100.”
The release of Dame Vera Lynn’s audition records represents not just a significant cultural moment, but also a cherished opportunity for fans to reconnect with the legacy of a singer who resonated deeply with the nation during some of its most trying times. As listeners prepare to engage with these historic recordings, they are invited to share in the reminiscence of a beloved figure who has left an indelible mark on music and history.
For those wanting to stay connected, BBC Sussex encourages sharing updates and stories across various platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where listeners can continue to explore and appreciate the rich legacy of Dame Vera Lynn. The excitement surrounding her newly released work reflects a continuing appreciation for her contributions to music and society, ensuring her memory thrives for generations to come.
