Yma Sumac, a Peruvian singer of immense talent, boasts an extraordinary 4 1/2 octave vocal range, which has captivated audiences worldwide. Born in the picturesque town of Ichocán, nestled high in the Andes mountains, Sumac's early life was marked by a passion for performance, with appearances on radio and in movies throughout South America.
As a young artist, she traveled to the United States, where she joined a small ensemble of musicians and dancers, sharing her incredible talent with American audiences. In 1950, she signed with Capitol Records, and it was during this time that her stage name underwent a transformation, adopting the more exotic spelling "Yma Sumac".
A long-standing urban legend surrounding Sumac's identity claims that she is, in reality, Amy Camus, a Jewish girl from Brooklyn. This rumor, which originated in 1951, was perpetuated through a joke among musicians and even made its way into Walter Winchell's gossip columns.
Throughout her illustrious career, Sumac has appeared in numerous films and stage productions, continuing to perform into the 1990s. Currently residing in Los Angeles, she has been contemplating the release of new recordings featuring her most recent concerts, a testament to her enduring commitment to her craft.
Yma Sumac's remarkable journey, marked by her unwavering dedication to music and her unique, extraordinary talent, has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
