Jester Hairston | |
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Born | Jester Joseph Hairston July 9, 1901 |
Died | January 18, 2000 Los Angeles, California, U.S. | (aged 98)
Other names | Jasper J. Hairston Jester J. Hairston |
Occupations |
|
Years active | 1936–1999 |
Spouse |
Isabelle Margaret Swanigan
(m. 1939; died 1986) |
Jester Joseph Hairston (July 9, 1901 – January 18, 2000) was an American composer, songwriter, arranger, choral conductor and actor. He was regarded as a leading expert on black spirituals and choral music.[1][2] His notable compositions include "Amen," a gospel-tinged theme from the film Lilies of the Field and a 1964 hit for the Impressions, and the Christmas song "Mary's Boy Child."