HILDEGARDE - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 08/31/1981 - HFSID 31679

HILDEGARDE
The singer who gained international fame signed this handwritten letter on a postcard to a fan about his disappointment at not seeing her perform
Autograph Letter Signed: "Hildegarde", 1p, 6x4 post card. New York, N.Y., August 31, 1981. Addressed in her hand on verso to: Mr. Charles Russhon/50 - Sutton Place South/New York, N.Y. 10022".  Her personal logo printed on message side. In full: "It was good to hear from you. I'm sorry you didn't get to see me at Marty's. I had a sensational engagement. Praise the Lord!!. I hope this finds you well and happy. Sincerely". Hildegarde Loretta Sell (1906-2005) was popularly known by her last name only or simply as "The Incomparable Hildegarde". A classically trained pianist who played in vaudeville from 1926, she emerged as a popular singer in the 1930s and 1940s with hits that included "Darling, Je Vous Aime Beaucoup" (written by her manager Anna Sosenko), "The Last Time I Saw Paris" and "I'll Be Seeing You". She also had a popular radio program, Hildegarde's Raleigh Room. The international stardom that Hildegarde achieved as a live cabaret singer is unparalleled. She was renowned around the world and, having never married, had many admirers. Some of her many showmanship innovations include wearing sleeves at every performance and going by only her first name. These unique calling cards, as well as her incredible voice and flirtatious manner, broke new ground on the evening club circuit. In 1961, she published her autobiography: Over 50…So What! Slightly worn at corners. Otherwise, fine condition.