Discover the Best Moments of Grace Jones’ Dynamic Career
Grace Jones isn’t just famous; she’s an icon who rose to superstardom for her boldness and creativity.
At Jukebox Saturday Night, we’re all about presenting the rich stories and cool tunes of the past like hits from Mike Smith (Dave Clark Five), the Beatles and more. Read on as we explore the big moments in Grace Jones’ career and what contributed to her lasting impact on the music and fashion industries.
From Jamaica to the world
Born on 19 May 1948 in Spanish Town, Jamaica, Grace Beverly Jones moved to Syracuse, New York, with her family when she was around 13 years old. Raised by her grandparents, she was a sporty, introverted kid. But moving to the U.S. flipped a switch, setting the stage for her future in the limelight.
From catwalks to camera lights
Once in New York, Jones didn’t blend in; she stood out. Her bold, androgynous looks caught everyone’s eye, leading her to ditch her university days early for a play in Philadelphia. This move wasn’t just a change of scenery; it launched her into the worlds of modelling and acting.
Grace’s career hit full stride when she moved to Paris. Modelling for top-tier designers like Yves Saint Laurent and gracing the covers of Elle and Vogue. Paris did more than boost her modelling career; it was here that she began her journey in music, taking vocal lessons and eventually snagging a record deal.
Making waves in music
The Grace Jones singer era kicked off with the 1977 album Portfolio. After getting a hit song with her cover of ‘La vie en rose’, Jones didn’t stop there, unlike some forgotten 70s bands. She mixed reggae, funk, and pop in albums like Nightclubbing and Slave to the rhythm, securing her spot as a pioneering music icon and cementing her pop culture impact.
Star-studded collaborations
Aside from mingling with musicians like Sade now, Grace was also the darling of the art world. Icons like Andy Warhol and Keith Haring became her pals and collaborators, merging art with her music and persona, especially in the electric 1980s New York art scene.
Grace turned music videos into art exhibits and live performances into epic spectacles. Her ‘I’m not perfect (but I’m perfect for you)’ video flaunted Keith Haring’s artwork, and her ‘A one man show’ was a blend of music, art and drama – truly a feast for the senses!
Taking the silver screen by storm
The Grace Jones actress era began in 1973, when she appeared in the film Gordon’s war. On-screen, she was every bit the powerhouse we knew from her music and modelling gigs. She has since played a variety of roles in over 20 films over the years.
Redefining the norm
Similar to John Lennon, Yoko Ono and other influential figures, Jones has made a mark with her work outside of music. Always challenging norms around gender and race, she used her spotlight to champion diversity and inclusivity. From setting the stage for LGBTQ+ artists to empowering artists of colour, she’s been a powerhouse of change, pushing the industry towards a more inclusive future.
Grace Jones is a legend whose impact keeps spinning well beyond her heyday. Today’s artists still look to her as the gold standard of cool and creativity. With her influence celebrated in art retros and music documentaries, it’s clear that her legacy isn’t just enduring; it’s evolving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are some of Grace Jones’s famous songs?
Her music career is marked by a versatile discography that blends pop, reggae, and disco influences. Some of her most famous songs include seventies jukebox hits like ‘La vie en rose’ as well as eighties classics like ‘Pull up to the bumper’, ’Slave to the rhythm’, and ‘I’ve seen that face before (libertango)’.
What movies has Grace Jones starred in?
In Conan the destroyer (1984), she was Zula, a warrior who held her own next to Arnold Schwarzenegger. Then came A view to a kill (1985), where she played May Day, a James Bond villain who was as mysterious as she was mighty.
What are some interesting facts about Grace Jones?
If you want to learn more about her, you don’t need to look anywhere else around the web. Here are some intriguing facts to know about Jones:
- She was a staple at the iconic Studio 54, known for her vibrant and wild party presence.
- Grace Jones shares a son with artist Jean-Paul Goude.
- She passed on roles in Ridley Scott’s Blade runner and the James Bond film Octopussy.
- She has been nominated for two Grammy Awards.
- She performed at The Diamond Jubilee Concert for Queen Elizabeth in 2012.
Keeping the beat alive at Jukebox Saturday Night
Jukebox Saturday Night keeps the rock ‘n’ roll flame burning bright! Born from Ken Sparkes’s dream to celebrate classic rock, our platform is all about the magic of those legendary beats and the stories behind them. Even after we lost Ken in 2016, his vision lives on through his nephew and son, who keep the tunes spinning and the stories flowing.
We’re all about authenticity here – no frills, just real rock. Our shows are more than just playlists; they’re journeys through rock history, mixing nostalgia with cool new insights. It’s a place to learn exciting stuff you may be looking for. It’s a space for music lovers to connect, relive their favourite hits and maybe even discover some old-school gems.
Think of us as your go-to spot for a rock revival with a fresh twist that keeps all ages tuning in. Join us at Jukebox Saturday Night, where you discover your favourite artists and every show is a ticket to the heyday of rock!
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