Jimmy Damon Following a rare, prolonged illness, iconic Chicago- based entertainer, Jimmy Damon, died surrounded by his family on his 75th birthday, April 27, 2013. In his article, Howard Reich, arts writer for the Chicago Tribune graciously cited Jimmy as Chicago Cabaret Professionals 2011 Gold Coast Award Winner. During his nearly five decades in Chicago, Damon appeared at countless civic and charitable events giving generously of his time to worthy causes. He was in high demand for private events and corporate entertainment and headlined in Chicago’s finest clubs. As a young man, he recorded at Sun Studios in Memphis, refining his skills along with an almost as young Elvis Presley. Damon shared the Chicago Theater stage with Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. He appeared regularly on the Las Vegas Strip. Damon responded with his usual good humor when, in his early Chicago years, Bill Murray based his Saturday Night Live character, Nick, the Lounge Singer, on Jimmy. In recent years, it was my privilege to appear alongside Bob Moreen and “Jimmele“ in our original music and comedy show, Borscht Belt Buddies. Barbara Lee Cohen, Bob Moreen, Felicia Dechter, (Chicago Skyline reporter) and I are in committee planning a Jimmy Damon tribute. It will be presented on Sunday afternoon, July 28. The Chicago History Museum has graciously offered space for the tribute. Notable entertainers and civic leaders who were close to Jimmy are being invited to participate in the program. More information will be available soon.
-Carla Gordon
