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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can summary
The Story of Sammy Davis Jr.
36 mins
Brief summary
"Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can" by Sammy Davis, Jr. and Jane and Burt Boyar is a memoir that chronicles the life of Sammy Davis Jr., from his childhood in vaudeville to his rise as a legendary performer. It explores his struggles with racism and his journey to overcome them.
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Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can
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Introduction
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Sammy Davis, Jr. performed with some of the most legendary entertainers of all time. Frank Sinatra. Dean Martin. Bing Crosby. Nat King Cole.
Yet nearly everyone who ever attended a Sammy Davis, Jr. show agreed: pound for pound, there was nobody more talented. Sammy Davis combined all the skills of an entertainer into one electrifying package: dancing, singing, comedy, impressions, playing music. In an era of showbusiness legends, he was universally regarded as the most versatile and crowd-pleasing performer around.
This is especially remarkable when you consider that Sammy Davis was a Black entertainer at a time when Black Americans faced inconceivable discrimination. In most clubs he played at the start of his career, he had to enter through the back door – only white people were allowed through the front. Yet over the course of his lifetime, Sammy Davis fought to change such racist policies.
By the end of his career, he set the terms, refusing to perform in segregated venues. Clubs had to change their rules if they wanted to profit off his talent. He’d go on to become one of America’s first Black performers to star in Hollywood movies, Broadway musicals, and TV shows. Through his remarkable resolve, he helped integrate American entertainment. But the progress he achieved came at a steep personal cost, and he would struggle with demons throughout his professional life.
What drove Sammy Davis to keep going? To keep refining his craft and performing at the highest level imaginable? Pull up a chair and fight for a seat near the front, because we’re delving into the life of Sammy Davis, Jr., one of the greatest entertainers ever to grace the stage.
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What is Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can about?
Narrated by Jeannette Robinson
Music by Federico Coderoni
Yes I Can (1965) is the bestselling autobiography of Sammy Davis Jr, viewed as one of the best autobiographies of all time. Written halfway through his life, it tells the story of how Davis battled racism, poverty and discrimination to become a star. Starting with his difficult childhood, it traces his life from his vaudeville days to his time as one of the most famous men in America.
Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can Review
Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can (1965) tells the inspiring life story of Sammy Davis, Jr. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With personal anecdotes and captivating storytelling, it offers a unique glimpse into the life of one of the most talented performers of the 20th century.
- The book explores themes of resilience and overcoming adversity, making it a source of inspiration for anyone facing challenges in their own life.
- Through Sammy Davis, Jr.'s perspective, readers gain insights into the entertainment industry and the struggles and triumphs of being a black artist during this era.
Who should read Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can?
- Fans of Sammy Davis Jr
- Anyone who wants to learn more about racism in 20th-century America
- Fans of vaudeville and Broadway
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Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can FAQs
What is the main message of Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can?
The main message of Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can is about Sammy Davis Jr.'s inspiring journey to overcome challenges and succeed in the entertainment industry.
How long does it take to read Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can?
The reading time for Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can a good book? Is it worth reading?
Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can is worth reading as it provides insights into Sammy Davis Jr.'s groundbreaking career and his ability to overcome adversity.
Who is the author of Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can?
The authors of Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can are Sammy Davis Jr. and Jane and Burt Boyar.
What to read after Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can?
If you're wondering what to read next after Bedtime Biography: Yes I Can, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Bedtime Biography: Me by Elton John
- Bedtime Biography: Notorious RBG by Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik
- Moore’s Law by Arnold Thackray
- Bedtime Biography: Vindication by Lyndall Gordon
- Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
- Bedtime Biography: Harriet Tubman by Catherine Clinton
- Bedtime Biography: Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly
- 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do by Amy Morin
- Beyond Good and Evil by Friedrich Nietzsche
- The Creative Act by Rick Rubin