#RespectYourElders: British singer Vera Lynn (born 1917) celebrated her birthday in style last month — by becoming the only person in history to release a top 10 album at age 100.
Nicknamed in Great Britain as “The Forces’ Sweetheart” during World War II, Lynn is best known for her iconic morale-boosting performances for British troops during the war, with popular tunes such as “We’ll Meet Again” and “(There’ll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs of Dover.” To honor 100th birthday, an image of Lynn was projected onto the White Cliffs of Dover. Lynn has received several British honors for her impact during the war.
Born in London, England, Lynn began performing at just 7 years old and released her first solo record in 1936. She traveled across the world to to perform songs for British soldiers, and even originated a radio program, “Sincerely Yours,” in 1941, where she sent messages to troops serving abroad. Lynn has received several British honors for her impact during the war.
After World War II, Lynn became the first British singer to top American charts. Her success continued throughout the following decades, with top hits such as “Auf Wiederseh’n, Sweetheart” and “It Hurts To Say Goodbye” in the 1950s and 60s.
Lynn and her music have been referenced in popular culture often through the years. Her song “We’ll Meet Again” was featured in the 1967 film “Dr. Strangelove” and a 1979 Pink Floyd song titled “Vera” is about Lynn.
Lynn has remained active in her career later in life. In 1995, she sang outside Buckingham Palace for the 50th anniversary of VE Day. She published an autobiography, “Some Sunny Day” in 2009 and she became the oldest living artist, at age 92, to make it to No. 1 on the British album chart.
Lynn’s latest album, “Vera Lynn 100,” orchestrates her original songs and includes new versions. The album landed at No. 3 on the British chart upon its release, outsold only by Ed Sheeran and Drake. Read more about Lynn’s career and her new album here.
