singing | USPS Stamp of Approval

In preparation for the joint issue with France’s La Poste, we immersed ourselves in the songs and lives of Miles Davis and Edith Piaf. But just because the First Day of Issue ceremony is over doesn’t mean the music has to be.

Now you can immortalize your love for these two international performers with . This keepsake comes with everything you need to fan the flame of your love for Davis and Piaf, including beautiful images and biographers of each artist, a pane of 20 Miles Davis and Edith Piaf (Forever®) stamps, two cards featuring the First Day of Issue cancellations from the U.S. Postal Service and La Poste, and more.

This folio is a perfect addition to any collection, and it makes a great gift, too! Quantities are limited and they’re sure to go fast, so make sure to get yours today!

Name, image and likeness of Miles Davis with permission from Miles Davis Properties, LLC.

Edith Piaf Photograph by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

On this day in 1939 (Easter Sunday), Marian Anderson gave a historic and highly symbolic performance outdoors before 75,000 people at the Lincoln Memorial. She presented a varied repertoire, including “America,” Schubert’s “Ave Maria,” and a group of spirituals. Her performance was broadcast on radio nationwide.

One of the greatest classically trained singers of the 20th century and an important figure in the struggle of black Americans for racial equality, Anderson opened doors for other black artists. In January 1955, she became the first black singer to appear on the stage of New York’s Metropolitan Opera when she sang the role of the sorceress Ulrica in Verdi’s Un Ballo in maschera.

Cultural Diary Page (click to order)

Nearing the twilight of her musical career, Anderson became more active in politics. She performed at an inaugural ceremony for President Eisenhower’s second term and for the inauguration of John F. Kennedy. The U.S. Department of State made her a goodwill ambassador to Asia, and in 1958, she was appointed to the thirteenth session of the United Nations.

At the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in August 1963, Anderson again sang at the Lincoln Memorial. The following December, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

In 2005, the U.S. Postal Service honored Anderson with the 28th stamp in the Black Heritage series.

USPS Stamp of Approval

Tag Archives: singing

Keep the Jazz of Miles Davis and Edith Piaf Alive Forever

Singer Marian Anderson Lets Her Rich Contralto Soar at Lincoln Memorial