 |
Monica BoyarAmerican nightclub singer originally from the Dominican Republic
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Biography of Monica Boyer
- Musical Career
- Contributions to Dominican Dance
- Calypso Style
- Career Highlights
- Multi-Talented Artist
- Acting Career
- Personal Life
Biography of Monica Boyer
Early LifeMonica Boyer, an American nightclub singer originally from the Dominican Republic, became a citizen of the United States after residing in the country since the age of six.
Musical Career
Boyer gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s as a connoisseur of folk music from all countries. She was known for setting the tone of Latin songs with a truly fantastic sound. American radio commentator Walter Winchell even declared Boyer as the best Latin talent in the entertainment industry of the 1960s.
Contributions to Dominican Dance
At the 1939 New York World's Fair, Boyer worked hard to introduce and make the Dominican Republic's native dance, merengue, popular and beloved among Americans. Despite initial resistance, by 1955, merengue had rapidly gained popularity in the United States like no other dance.
Calypso Style
Boyer introduced Afro-Caribbean music, specifically calypso, which resonated with many people and was seen as music created for the soul, rather than for commercial purposes. By 1954, calypso songs became hits.
Career Highlights
In October 1945, Boyer presented her new song, "That's Why A Woman Loves A Heel," to the public. By 1948, she had become a sought-after guest on international radio stations. She performed at 'Ciro' club in Mexico City and 'Nacional' hotel in Havana. In December 1955, she had a performance in the 'Viennese Lantern' club in Yorkville, Manhattan.
Multi-Talented Artist
In addition to her singing career, Boyer was also a fashion designer highly regarded by actors and movie stars for her unique and simple designs. She was known for her originality in combining fashion with simplicity. Boyer also designed expensive handbags and owned over 200 dresses, which she wore during her performances.
Acting Career
Boyer appeared in the 1945 short film "Princess Papaya," directed by Josef Berne, which featured dancer Sylvia Opert. She portrayed a singer in an episode of the series "Mister Peepers" in 1951. Nearly a decade later, Boyer had the opportunity to audition for film projects at Universal Pictures.
Personal Life
American actor Marlon Brando visited Boyer while she was hospitalized in Lennox Hill Hospital in January 1955. She married comedian Lee Tully in March 1958 but divorced him in June of the same year. Prior to this, Boyer was married to actor Leslie Nielsen for five years. They separated in August 1955, and Nielsen agreed to pay a lump sum of $19,000 instead of monthly alimony payments of $500.
