America's most popular female singer during WWII joins her Brittish counterpart Vera Lynn in the 90+ club. Happy birthday, Jo Stafford.

She came from Coalinga, a hard-bitten mining town in the dry foothills west of California's great San Joaquin Valley. Despite a poor background, she studied music theory and voice, becoming a true musician, not just a singer.

She is one of the true Pop singers, seldom even suggesting Jazz, Blues or Country in her style. Her competition included Dinah Shore and (later) Patty Page, both of whom always had a Country edge to their style. Popular Music is more inclusive, usually incorporating parts of the more exclusive styles.

Stafford has her own record label, Corinthian Records, which tries to promote Christian artists and family music.