#18: “Boop-oop-a-doop”
Betty Boop remains a cultural cartoon icon decades after her screen debut in the 1930s. Even if you’ve never seen any of the cartoons, you most likely recognize Betty’s bombshell look and flapper girl fashion. The original performer who influenced the creation of Betty Boop has unfortunately faded into obscurity.
Back in the day, singer Helen Kane tried to claim that Betty Boop was created to imitate her singing style, but in reality, Betty Boop can thank Esther Lee “Baby Esther” Jones for her existence. Esther Jones was a Black scat singer and performer who rose to fame at Harlem’s Cotton Club for her signature performances and unique voice. Betty Boop’s famous “boop-oop-a-doop” wouldn’t exist without Esther!