The life of Lena Horne

In James Gavin's new biography "Stormy Weather: The Life of Lena Horne," (Atria Books, 2009) he outlines the life of an icon. Though Horne was reluctant to adopt the title, the singer-actress paved the way for African Americans. At a time when African American actors were overlooked for serious roles, Horne worked hard to fight the color barrier. Known for her roles in the films "Cabin in the Sky" and "Stormy Weather" Horne played Glinda the Good Witch in "The Wiz" and continued to act well into the 1980s. Now at 92, Lena Horne is known as a recluse, but remembered as a trail blazer. Larry Mantle speaks to James Gavin about the life and times of Lena Horne.

In James Gavin's new biography "Stormy Weather: The Life of Lena Horne," (Atria Books, 2009) he outlines the life of an icon. Though Horne was reluctant to adopt the title, the singer-actress paved the way for African Americans. At a time when African American actors were overlooked for serious roles, Horne worked hard to fight the color barrier. Known for her roles in the films "Cabin in the Sky" and "Stormy Weather" Horne played Glinda the Good Witch in "The Wiz" and continued to act well into the 1980s. Now at 92, Lena Horne is known as a recluse, but remembered as a trail blazer. Larry Mantle speaks to James Gavin about the life and times of Lena Horne.

James Gavin, author of "Stormy Weather: The Life of Lena Horne"