Eleanor Collins, affectionately known as “Canada’s First Lady of Jazz”, was a jazz singer, former television host, and civic leader. Born in Edmonton in 1919, Collins’ musical talent was nourished from an early age, singing in local church choirs and competing in talent competitions.

In 1938, Collins moved to Vancouver, and alongside her sister Ruby Sneed, began performing as a member of the gospel group Swing Low Quartette. The group’s success led to additional opportunities within the Canadian music scene, and between 1940 and 1942, Collins and co. regularly performed on CBC Radio.

Despite Collins’ vigorous participation in public life, she still faced the realities of racism. After moving to Burnaby, B.C. in 1942, and starting a family with her new husband Richard Collins, the couple was met with resistance from community members. White neighbors started a petition to prevent the Collins family from taking up residence in the neighborhood. Collins’ response to this discrimination was to volunteer at the local elementary school as a music teacher.

After a brief break, Collins stepped back into the spotlight in 1948, appearing in the theatre productions Finian’s Rainbows, Kiss Me, Kate, and You Can’t Take It With You in the early 1950s. In 1955, Collins made history and became the first person of colour and first Jazz singer to headline a national television program, after being invited to star in the CBC’s The Eleanor Show.

Collins continued to perform in the 60s and 70s, choosing to continue performing and living in Canada despite many offers to relocate to the U.S.

On November 4th, 2014, Collins was awarded the Order of Canada for her contributions to the Canadian entertainment landscape. More recently in 2022, she was honoured with a commorative stamp paying tribute to her life and many accomplishments.

After a decades long career, Eleanor Collins passed away at the age of 104 on March 3rd, 2024. She leaves behind her a powerful legacy of perseverance and strength.