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Remembering Singer LaVern Baker

Baker, one of America's great rhythm-and-blues singers of the 1950's, died earlier this week. She was 67. The Associated Press says the cause was heart complications. Baker was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991. Her hits included "Tweedlee Dee," "Jim Dandy," and "I Cried a Tear." After living in the Philippines during the '70's and '80's, Baker made a comeback in the '90's when she appeared on Broadway in "Black and Blue." (REBROADCAST FROM 3/26/91).

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Other segments from the episode on March 14, 1997

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, March 14, 1997: Obituary for LaVern Baker; Interview with Sting; Review of the film "Love Jones."
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21:47

Musician Sting Always Knew He Was a Singer

Sting is in a new movie, "Gentlemen Don't Eat Poets." The former bassist and lead singer of The Police has been a solo artist since the 1980's. He also acted in a number of films including "Dune" and "Quadrophenia," and appeared in a Broadway production of "Three Penny Opera." (REBROADCAST FROM 3/4/96).

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The Return of R&B Singer LaVern Baker

Baker had a series of hits in the 50s, among them "Bumblebee," and "Jim Dandy to the Rescue." During her hiatus from performing in the United States, she lived in the Philippines and booked concerts for American soldiers.

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