Lee Wiley sings Youmans’ “Time On My Hands“, 1931

LEE WILEY (1908--1975) was an American jazz singer popular in the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s. Although today less well-known, Wiley is still appreciated by jazz aficionados. Although she had only a small voice, she possessed an attractive, slightly husky tone and delivered lyrics with warmth and intimacy. Born in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, Wiley left home early to begin a career singing with the Leo Reisman band. Her career was temporarily interrupted by a fall while horse-riding and she suffered temporary blindness, but she recovered and at the age of 19 was back with Reisman again. She also sang with Paul Whiteman and later, the Casa Loma Orchestra. A collaboration with composer Victor Young resulted in several songs for which Wiley wrote the lyrics, including “Got The South In My Soul“ and “Anytime, Anyday, Anywhere“. In 1939, Wiley made a 78 album set of eight Gershwin songs with a small group for Liberty Music Shops. The set sold well and was followed by 78 album sets dedicated to Co