33 Facts About Della Reese

Della Reese was born on July 6, 1931.

Della Reese, whose birth name was Delloreese Patricia Early, was born on July 6, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan.

She was an acclaimed singer and actress.

Della Reese was not only known for her powerful and soulful singing voice but also for her impressive acting skills. She excelled in both fields and left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Della Reese started her singing career at a young age.

From a young age, Della Reese showcased her singing talent in her local church choir. She would go on to perform in various venues and eventually caught the attention of music industry professionals.

She signed with Jubilee Records in the 1950s.

In the 1950s, Della Reese signed a recording contract with Jubilee Records, which helped launch her career as a recording artist. She released several successful singles during this time.

Della Reese’s breakthrough hit was “Don’t You Know?”

One of Della Reese’s most famous and successful songs was “Don’t You Know?” which reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in The song showcased her incredible vocal range and emotional delivery.

She achieved success in both pop and gospel music genres.

Della Reese’s versatile voice allowed her to excel in various music genres. She found success in both pop and gospel music, solidifying her status as a versatile and talented artist.

Della Reese became known as an advocate for people with disabilities.

After being diagnosed with diabetes in 1979, Della Reese became an advocate for people with disabilities. She spoke openly about her own struggles and used her platform to raise awareness about the disease.

She became an ordained minister in the 1980s.

In the 1980s, Della Reese decided to pursue her spiritual calling. She became an ordained minister and actively incorporated her faith into her performances and public appearances.

Della Reese starred in the hit TV show “Touched by an Angel.”

One of Della Reese’s most iconic roles was that of Tess, an angel, in the popular television series “Touched by an Angel.” Her portrayal garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase.

She received multiple Emmy Award nominations for her role in “Touched by an Angel.”

For her outstanding performance in “Touched by an Angel,” Della Reese received multiple Emmy Award nominations, further solidifying her talent and impact in the television industry.

Della Reese had a recurring role in the TV series “The Young and the Restless.”

In addition to her role in “Touched by an Angel,” Della Reese also appeared in the popular soap opera “The Young and the Restless” as the character Virginia Hamilton.

She appeared in numerous films throughout her career.

Della Reese showcased her acting skills in various films, including “Harlem Nights” (1989), “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate” (1996), and “Expecting Mary” (2010), among others.

Della Reese released multiple successful albums.

Throughout her career, Della Reese released several well-received albums, including “And Now… Della” (1959), “Della” (1960), and “Special Delivery” (1980), which contained her hit single “It’s Magic.”

She was known for her distinctive deep and rich voice.

Della Reese possessed a distinct and captivating voice characterized by its depth and richness. Her voice had the power to captivate audiences and evoke a range of emotions.

Della Reese became the first black woman to host a talk show.

In 1969, Della Reese made history as the first black woman to host her own talk show, “Della.” The show provided a platform for diverse voices and became a significant milestone in television history.

She was a talented pianist.

In addition to her remarkable vocal abilities, Della Reese was also skilled on the piano. She often showcased her piano skills during live performances and incorporated the instrument into her music.

Della Reese’s real-life experiences influenced her acting performances.

Throughout her career, Della Reese drew from her own life experiences to enhance her acting performances. Her ability to connect with her characters on a deep level was evident in her nuanced portrayals.

She was a philanthropist.

Della Reese was dedicated to giving back to her community and was involved in various charitable endeavors. She believed in using her platform for the betterment of others.

Della Reese was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In recognition of her contributions to the entertainment industry, Della Reese received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in It was a testament to her talent and enduring legacy.

She continued to perform and inspire until her passing.

Even in her later years, Della Reese remained active in the entertainment industry, continuing to perform and inspire audiences with her powerful voice and captivating presence.

Della Reese’s incredible career spanned over six decades.

From her humble beginnings to her legacy as an iconic entertainer, Della Reese’s career spanned over six decades, solidifying her status as a true legend in the industry.

She became a role model for aspiring artists.

Della Reese’s talent, resilience, and trailblazing spirit made her a role model for aspiring artists, particularly women and people of color who looked up to her achievements.

She was known for her warmth and kindness.

Della Reese was beloved not only for her immense talent but also for her genuine warmth and kindness. She had a magnetic personality that touched the hearts of those around her.

Della Reese made guest appearances on various TV shows.

In addition to her regular television roles, Della Reese made guest appearances on popular shows such as “The Love Boat,” “Sanford and Son,” and “The Mod Squad,” showcasing her versatility as an actress.

She overcame personal and professional challenges throughout her life.

Della Reese faced numerous challenges throughout her life, from health issues to obstacles in the entertainment industry. Despite these challenges, she persevered and continued to succeed.

Della Reese received numerous accolades for her contributions to music and acting.

Throughout her career, Della Reese received multiple awards and honors, including Grammy nominations, Image Awards, and a People’s Choice Award, highlighting her immense talent and impact.

She was a trailblazer for African-American women in the entertainment industry.

Della Reese’s success and trailblazing achievements opened doors for future generations of African-American women in the entertainment industry. She paved the way for greater diversity and representation.

Della Reese’s music resonated with audiences worldwide.

Whether she was singing soulful ballads or uplifting gospel songs, Della Reese’s music resonated with audiences around the world. Her soul-stirring performances touched hearts and inspired millions.

She had a vibrant stage presence.

Whenever Della Reese took the stage, she commanded attention with her vibrant presence. Her electrifying performances left audiences in awe and created lasting memories.

Della Reese appeared in the documentary “Pioneers of Television.”

In the documentary series “Pioneers of Television,” Della Reese was featured as one of the influential figures who helped shape the television landscape and transform the medium.

She remained a beloved figure throughout her life.

Della Reese’s impact extended far beyond her professional accomplishments. She was greatly loved by fans, peers, and friends, who cherished her warmth, talent, and contributions to the world.

Della Reese’s autobiography, “Angels Along the Way,” was published in 1997.

In her autobiography, “Angels Along the Way,” Della Reese shared her remarkable life story, from her humble beginnings to her rise to stardom, offering insights into her personal and professional journey.

Della Reese’s legacy continues to inspire generations.

Even after her passing in 2017, Della Reese’s legacy lives on, inspiring generations of artists and reminding us of the power of talent, resilience, and the ability to touch the hearts of others through art.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Della Reese was a remarkable and talented woman who made a significant impact on the entertainment industry. From her early beginnings as a jazz and gospel singer to her transition into acting, Reese captivated audiences with her soulful voice and powerful performances. Throughout her career, she achieved numerous milestones and garnered widespread recognition for her work. Beyond her success in the industry, Reese was also known for her philanthropy and her devotion to helping others. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists and fans alike. Della Reese will always be remembered as a true icon in the world of music and entertainment.

FAQs

1. What is Della Reese best known for?

Della Reese is best known for her roles in the hit television series “Touched by an Angel” where she portrayed the character of Tess, an angelic supervisor guiding and assisting people. She received critical acclaim and recognition for her outstanding performance in the show.

2. Did Della Reese have a successful music career?

Yes, Della Reese had a successful music career before making her mark in the acting industry. She began as a jazz and gospel singer, and her soulful voice captivated audiences all over the world. She released numerous albums and achieved chart-topping success with hits like “Don’t You Know” and “And That Reminds Me.”

3. What awards did Della Reese receive during her career?

Della Reese received several accolades throughout her career. She was nominated for multiple Emmy Awards for her role in “Touched by an Angel” and won two NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series. She was also honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

4. Was Della Reese involved in any charitable work?

Yes, Della Reese was known for her philanthropy and actively involved in various charitable causes. She co-founded the Understanding Principles for Better Living Church, a non-denominational spiritual center, and devoted her time to helping underserved communities and promoting social justice.

5. What is the legacy of Della Reese?

Della Reese leaves behind a lasting legacy as a talented entertainer, a trailblazer, and a philanthropist. She broke barriers in the industry and paved the way for future generations of African American artists. Her powerful performances and soulful voice continue to resonate with audiences, and her dedication to philanthropy serves as an inspiration to make a positive impact in the world.