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View a database that includes artifacts, photographs, and documents in the History San José collection which relate to Lou’s Village Restaurant in San José, California.
Abbey Lincoln
Born Anna Marie Wooldridge in Chicago in 1930, Abbey Lincoln grew up on Michigan farm. Since the family had a piano, Abbey developed an early interest in music and began singing in school and church choirs. She eventually moved to California, where she met Bob Russell, who became her manager. While touring in California she made a stop at Lou’s Village. In 1956, she released her first album, Abbey Lincoln's Affair: A Story of a Girl in Love. She then moved to New York City and performed at the Village Vanguard, one of the nation’s premier jazz clubs. She was married to drummer Max Roach from 1962 until 1970, during which time she became active in the Civil Rights movement.
She continues to perform and record today, more than fifty years after her debut. Her 1990 album, The World Is Falling Down, recorded with an all-star ensemble that included bassist Charlie Haden, drummer Billy Higgins, alto sax player Jackie McLean, and pianist Hank Jones.