Buckinghamshire jazz singer Dame Cleo Laine dies at 97
Her family has announced her death and asked for privacy as tributes come from her former music venue
Dame Cleo Laine, who lived in Buckinghamshire and co-founded The Stables music venue in Wavendon with her late husband Sir John Dankworth, died peacefully yesterday aged 97.
Her children, Jacqui and Alec Dankworth, said in a statement: “It is with deepest sadness that we announce the passing of our dearly beloved mother, Cleo, who died peacefully yesterday afternoon. We will all miss her terribly. The family wish to be given space to grieve and ask for privacy at this very difficult time.”
Dame Cleo Laine was known for her extraordinary four-octave vocal range and her versatility across jazz, classical, and popular music. She had a career spanning over seven decades and was one of Britain’s most successful jazz singers.
She recorded with major artists including Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles, and performed at major venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York. She also appeared in stage productions, including musical theatre, and made film and television appearances.
Dame Cleo and Sir John Dankworth established The Stables in 1970, which remains a centre for live music and arts. She was Life President of the venue until her death.
The Stables said it was “greatly saddened today by the news that one of its founders and Life President, Dame Cleo Laine, has passed away.”