Jester Hairston

(1901-2000)

American composer, songwriter, arranger, choral conductor, and actor

more_vert

4,140 views

favorite

About

edit

Jump to

Family
Relationships
Associates
Similar

Jester Joseph Hairston (July 9, 1901 – January 18, 2000) was an American composer, songwriter, arranger, choral conductor, and actor. He was regarded as a leading expert on Negro spirituals and choral music. His notable compositions include "Amen," a gospel-tinged theme from the film Lilies of the Field and a 1963 hit for The Impressions, and the Christmas song "Mary's Boy Child".

Key details

edit section

Born	Jester Joseph Hairston 9 July 1901 Belews Creek, North Carolina, USA
Died	18 January 2000 (aged 98) Los Angeles, California, USA
Zodiac	Cancer
Tags	Add tag