Helen O'Connell (May 23, 1920 – September 9, 1993) was an American singer, actress, and host whose career spanned several decades from the big band era into the early 1960s. Initially gaining fame as the featured vocalist with Jimmy Dorsey's band, she became known for her smooth voice and ballads, as well as her upbeat and intricate swing tunes. In a time when female vocalists often became synonymous with the bands they performed with, O'Connell shined with her renditions of songs like "Green Eyes," which became one of her signature hits, as well as romantic ballads that showcased her range and ability to capture the spirit of an era.

Throughout her career, Helen O’Connell evolved with the changing tastes in music. She enjoyed a successful solo career after her tenure with Dorsey, with hits such as “A Woman's Prerogative.” Her adaptability enabled her to navigate the transition from the big band sound to more contemporary styles. Even after the peak of her singing career, she remained in the public eye as a television personality and host. Helen’s contributions to music are celebrated in retrospective collections such as "Reader's Digest Music: Margaret Whiting, Helen Forrest and Helen O'Connell: The Reader's Digest 'Songbird' Sessions” and “The Uncollected,” which highlight the timeless appeal of her vocal prowess. Regarded as one of the remarkable voices of her time, O'Connell's work continues to resonate with fans of traditional pop and jazz standards.

Genres

Big Band

British Dance Band

Deep Adult Standards

Swing

Latest Release

The Uncollected

Helen O'Connell

Album - 14 Tracks - Released March 12, 2014