Jester J. Hairston

Jester J. Hairston was a renowned American composer, songwriter, arranger, choral conductor, and actor known for his expertise in black spirituals and choral music.

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Profession :

TV Actor

Birthday :

July 9, 1901

Death Date:

January 18, 2000

Age :

98

Jester Joseph Hairston, born on July 9, 1901, and passed away on January 18, 2000, was a multifaceted American talent who excelled as a composer, songwriter, arranger, choral conductor, and actor. He was considered a foremost authority on black spirituals and choral music. Among his notable compositions were “Amen,” a gospel-inspired theme from the film Lilies of the Field, which became a 1964 hit for the Impressions, and the Christmas song “Mary’s Boy Child.” Hairston also enjoyed a successful acting career, with significant roles in films like The Alamo and In the Heat of the Night. In addition, he was the first African American to conduct the Academy Awards orchestra and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1987.