India Adams was a talented singer who made a big impact in film, theater, and live shows. She began singing professionally as a schoolgirl. She became popular in Hollywood. India often sang for famous actresses in musical films, staying out of the spotlight. This made her one of Hollywood’s secret singing stars. But her career was more than just ghost singing. She also performed on international stages. She captivated radio audiences. And, she continued to sing well into her later years.
The Early Years and Hollywood Beginnings
India’s career kicked off while she was still a student. Her natural singing talent caught the attention of MGM Studios. Soon, she was performing for Hollywood’s top stars. She sang for Joan Crawford in Torch Song and for Cyd Charisse in The Band Wagon, which was significant.
In “The Band Wagon,” a beloved musical, India’s voice shone in “New Sun in the Sky” and in the classic, “That’s Entertainment!”” She shared the stage with Fred Astaire, Nanette Fabray, Jack Buchanan, and Oscar Levant. Together, they created memorable musical scenes in Hollywood. Yet, India often stayed in the shadows.
Her work on these films was pivotal. It showed her vocal range and her ability to blend with the on-screen performances. Without India Adams voice, these musicals may not have achieved the same acclaim. Yet, despite her success as a ghost singer, India was not content to remain behind the curtain.
Expanding Her Career: Recordings and Stage Performances
India’s talents extended beyond film. MGM soon signed her to RCA Records. There, she released her debut album, “Comfort Me With Apples.” It showcased her vocal talent and versatility. It let fans hear her outside a film soundtrack.
After moving to New York, India began to focus more on live performances and stage roles. She starred in several hit musicals, like “Can-Can,” “The Most Happy Fella,” and “Brigadoon.” They let her showcase her range as a singer and performer. India became a fixture in New York’s nightclub scene. She frequently performed in Manhattan and at renowned venues in the Catskills.
She graced legendary stages like The Latin Quarter and Radio City Music Hall. This proved her talents went beyond the recording studio and soundstage. Her ability to captivate live audiences added a new dimension to her career. She became well-known for her dynamic presence on stage.
Success in London and European Career
In 1965, India relocated to London, where her career blossomed further. She became a regular on BBC Radio and television, appearing on hundreds of shows. Her voice reached audiences across the UK, Europe, and Scandinavia via radio, TV, and club acts.
India’s versatility let her move into TV ads and other media. This expanded her influence in Europe. A highlight of her time in London was a Royal Command Performance. It is a prestigious event featuring some of the world’s finest entertainers.
In London’s West End, India had the rare chance to work with Hollywood legend Ginger Rogers. She was the standby for Rogers during her entire run in “Mame” at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. It put her alongside one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. It also secured her place in musical theater.
Return to the U.S. and the Legacy of “Hollywood’s Secret Singing Stars”
India returned to Los Angeles. There, she resumed her performances and collaborations with other artists. She teamed up with fellow ghost singers Annette Warren and Betty Wand. Together, they created “Hollywood’s Secret Singing Stars,” a revue. It celebrated the unsung voices behind famous musical performances in Hollywood films.
The show received widespread acclaim, both critical and public. It played at The Cinegrill in Hollywood, The Castro in San Francisco, The Annenberg in Palm Springs, and Pepperdine’s Smothers Theatre. The revue celebrated India and her colleagues. Their iconic, uncredited voices are now part of film history.
In 1992, “Hollywood’s Secret Singing Stars” entertained the Academy Awards. It honored their key contributions to filmmaking.
Later Performances and Documentaries
In her later years, India continued to perform well. She headlined shows at The Gardenia in Hollywood and at The Catalina Bar & Grill on Sunset Boulevard. She sold out her performances there. Her unique voice and charisma captivated audiences, even as music evolved.
In 2011, she took part in the TCM Festival in Hollywood. She was on the celebrity panel “Voice Doubles: They Sang The Songs That Made Movies Famous.” It highlighted the overlooked talents of ghost singers like India. Their work was vital to the success of many classic films.
India’s legacy was further explored in the film “Southern dysComfort.” It won awards. The BBC 4 documentary “Secret Voices of Hollywood” also explored it.” The documentary featured legends like Rita Moreno and Marni Nixon. It showed that ghost singers made some of Hollywood’s best musicals.
A Lasting Impact
India Adams’ career is a testament to her extraordinary vocal talent and versatility. She left a lasting mark on the entertainment industry, from Hollywood to London and beyond. India Adams has a great but unheralded voice in music. From her early days as a schoolgirl singer to her celebrated nightclub and stage performances, she has made her mark on history.
Her work lives on in the DVDs of “Torch Song,” “The Band Wagon,” and “That’s Entertainment III.” India’s voice was behind the scenes in some of the most iconic films. Her impact on music and film is undeniable. She is one of Hollywood’s true unsung stars.