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Lynn DiMenna was recognized in the book in chapter La crème de la crème. Who is in and who is out? Almost everybody or anybody who is somebody in showbiz is in the book. Even critics, writers and TV show hosts were written up in the book. For instance Turner Classic Movies' Robert Osborne, New York Post's film critic Jamie Barnard, Jamie deRoy and two notorious entertainment critics in New York were presented on a silver dish. All the big names in jazz and cabaret are in. The living ones. The departed ones were left in peace. Mr. de Lafayette is not a person you can easily impress. To do so, you got to have guts, talent, character and humility, especially humility. What impresses him most, he said "is that good nature and modesty you find in super stars who are down to earth...stars who are real...real on stage and in "real" life. He continues: "Talent is essential to succeed in showbiz. But your goodness, your generosity and loving persona are the secrets behind an everlasting successful career." Now, you get the clear idea, why he did portray some famous performers as mean, "pompous-asses and faceless, heartless entertainment characters!" Mr. de Lafayette displayed a touching sympathy toward talented but not so lucky performers. He said: "In this unmerciful world of showbiz, you will find superb singers and artists who are to be discovered, more precisely, great talents we do not read about in the papers or see on television.
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The magnificent Marlene Verplanck. A living legend. I wanted to change that scenario, and one way to do this, is to give them maximum exposure in my book. Not every singer can afford a publicist and a shrewd manager. So, if we welcome lesser known, well seasoned artists with open arms and extend to them the same courtesy we do usually offer to mega stars, if we do that, you, me and the decision makers in the industry, we could or would discover great hidden talents...Just give a chance to everybody...on an equal basis." This could be one of the most meaningful aspects and powerful statements of Entertainment, Divas, Cabaret, Jazz Then And Now.
Maximum exposure Needless to say, big names and legends such as Anita O'Day, Marlene Verplanck, Helen Baldassare, Betty Buckley, Blossom Dearie and others notable dignitaries are prominently written up in the book. However, the whole philosophy of Mr. de Lafayette is to introduce to the general public as well as to the powerful executives of the recording industry, artists who are blessed with a great talent but unfortunately were either ignored or under-rated. "Also luck plays an important role in launching an artist' career...showbiz is often unmerciful. The bottom line is: Exposure, public relations, even gossip and hot talks are on the menu..." said Mr. de Lafayette. Continues on P. 139
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Ondine
Darcyl, "A magnificent talent", said Lafayette