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Article Date: January 22, 2023 • Sammy Davis Jr. was one of the most iconic and beloved entertainers of the 20th century, and his history with Las Vegas is an important part of his legacy.
Davis first began performing in Las Vegas in the 1950s, when the city was just beginning to establish itself as a major entertainment destination. He was part of the famous “Rat Pack,” a group of entertainers that included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Joey Bishop. Together, they headlined shows at the Sands Hotel and Casino, and helped to establish Las Vegas as a must-see destination for music and comedy.
Davis was known for his incredible versatility as a performer, and he was equally at home singing, dancing, and playing instruments. He was particularly famous for his impressions of other entertainers, and his ability to mimic the singing styles of stars like Nat King Cole and Louis Armstrong.
In addition to his performances at the Sands, Davis also had a long-running residency at the Frontier Hotel. He would perform in shows at the hotel for several years at a time, and it became one of his favorite venues.
Davis was also a regular performer at other Las Vegas hotels and casinos, including the Desert Inn, the Aladdin, and the Flamingo. He was one of the most sought-after entertainers in the city, and his performances were always highly anticipated by audiences.
Throughout his career, Davis faced a significant amount of racial discrimination and prejudice, particularly in Las Vegas. Despite this, he persevered, and his talent and hard work helped to pave the way for other black entertainers in the city.
Sammy Davis Jr. passed away in 1990, but his legacy lives on in Las Vegas. He was one of the most important figures in the city’s entertainment history, and his performances helped to establish Las Vegas as the entertainment capital of the world. Today, his memory is honored through the Sammy Davis Jr. Festival, held every year in the city.
In conclusion, Sammy Davis Jr. was an integral part of Las Vegas history. He was a legendary performer, and his contributions to the entertainment scene in the city are still remembered and celebrated today. His legacy will continue to live on as a trailblazer for black entertainers in the industry, and as a Las Vegas icon.
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