June Tyson
Musical artist
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
June Tyson (February 5, 1936 – November 24, 1992) was an American singer, violinist, and dancer who performed with bandleader Sun Ra.[2][3][4]
June Tyson | |
|---|---|
| Born | February 5, 1936 Albemarle, North Carolina, United States |
| Died | November 24, 1992 (aged 56) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania[1] |
| Occupations | Musician, dancer |
| Instruments | Vocals, violin |
| Years active | 1968-1992 |
Biography
A native of Albemarle, North Carolina, Tyson worked in Harlem during the 1960s as a singer. She performed in a series of outdoor Broadway musicals in Manhattan's Jackie Robinson Park, where, in 1968, Lem Roebuck, manager of the Sun Ra Arkestra, recognized her talents and introduced her to bandleader Sun Ra. She became the only woman in his band, performing solo, duets, and call-and-response vocals.[5][6] Tyson also worked as the band's costume designer, choreographer, and violinist.[7] Her husband, Richard Wilkerson, was a member of the crew who designed lighting and sound.[8] Their home in Harlem became a regular stop for members of the band.[6]