Lena Horne Quotes

A collection of quotes by Lena Horne.

Lena Horne (1917-2010) was an American singer, actress, and civil rights activist. Born in Brooklyn, New York, she began her career as a nightclub performer and soon gained recognition for her stunning vocal talents. Horne's distinctive voice and captivating beauty helped her break down racial barriers in the entertainment industry.

Horne first rose to prominence in the 1940s when she signed a contract with MGM Studios, becoming one of the first African American actresses to secure a long-term contract with a major Hollywood studio. However, due to the prevalent racial prejudice of the time, her roles were often limited to musical numbers that could be easily removed from films for screenings in segregated theaters.

Embracing her role as a trailblazer, Horne used her platform to advocate for civil rights throughout her career. She refused to perform for segregated audiences and went on to become an active participant in the Civil Rights Movement alongside prominent figures like Martin Luther King Jr.

Over the course of her career, Horne released numerous successful recordings, including the iconic song "Stormy Weather," which remains one of her best-known performances. She also appeared in several films, including "Cabin in the Sky" and "The Wiz." In recognition of her contributions, Horne received several prestigious accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, a Tony Award, and a Kennedy Center Honors Lifetime Achievement Award.

Lena Horne's legacy as an incredibly talented performer and civil rights advocate continues to inspire generations to this day.

I made a promise to myself to be kinder to other people.

I made a promise to myself to be kinder to other people.

Lena Horne


I'm still learning, you know. At 80, I feel there is a lot I

I'm still learning, you know. At 80, I feel there is a lot I don't know.

Lena Horne

Learning

Every color I can think of and nationality, we were all touc

Every color I can think of and nationality, we were all touched by Dr. King because he made us like each other and respect each other.

Lena Horne

Respect

Don't be afraid to feel as angry or as loving as you can, be

Don't be afraid to feel as angry or as loving as you can, because when you feel nothing, it's just death.

Lena Horne

Death

Always be smarter than the people who hire you.

Always be smarter than the people who hire you.

Lena Horne

Intelligence

Malcolm X made me very strong at a time I needed to understa

Malcolm X made me very strong at a time I needed to understand what I was angry about. He had peace in his heart. He exerted a big influence on me.

Lena Horne

Peace

I'm not alone, I'm free. I no longer have to be a credit, I

I'm not alone, I'm free. I no longer have to be a credit, I don't have to be a symbol to anybody I don't have to be a first to anybody.

Lena Horne

Alone

It's not the load that breaks you down, it's the way you car

It's not the load that breaks you down, it's the way you carry it.

Lena Horne

Attitude