Elliot, Cass [Cohen, Ellen Naomi; Mama Cass]

Extract

[Cohen, Ellen Naomi; Mama Cass]

(b Baltimore, MD, Sept 19, 1941; d London, UK, July 29, 1974). American pop and folk-rock singer. After developing an early interest in musical theater in Washington, DC, she formed a folk trio, the Triumvirate, in New York in 1963. Following personnel changes, the group was called the Big Three and Mama Cass (as Elliot was known) and then the Mugwumps. In 1965 Elliot joined Denny Doherty and John and Michelle Phillips to form the Mamas and the Papas, the. Their hits included “Monday, Monday” and “California Dreamin’,” as well as “Dream a little dream of me,” which launched Elliot’s solo career in 1968. Elliot thrived as a solo artist, releasing five albums while continuing to record with the band until 1971. She appeared on several television programs, including The Carol Burnett Show and The Tonight Show. After two weeks of sold-out concerts in London in 1974, Elliot died of a heart attack....