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Lena Martell: From Glasgow to Global Stardom
16 Oct
Summary
- Singer Lena Martell achieved a UK No 1 in 1979 with 'One Day at a Time'.
- She had her own BBC television shows, attracting over 12 million viewers.
- Martell's career spanned decades, including stages in Las Vegas and Australia.
Singer and television presenter Lena Martell, celebrated for her 1979 UK No 1 hit "One Day at a Time," passed away at the age of 86. Born Helena Thomson in Glasgow, Scotland, her career journeyed from local dance halls to international stages in Las Vegas and Australia.
Martell's recording of "One Day at a Time," a country-gospel fusion, remained at the top of the UK charts for three weeks, outselling hits by Michael Jackson and ABBA. This success marked her as Scotland's first solo female artist to achieve a No 1 single, with the song selling 2.5 million copies globally.
Beyond her chart success, Martell was a prominent television personality. She hosted popular BBC programs like "Presenting Lena Martell" (1971-73), which drew over 12 million viewers, and "Music with Martell" (1974). Her rich contralto voice and easy-listening style also featured on several Top 40 albums released between 1974 and 1980.
Her career, though marked by periods of ill health and personal loss, including the deaths of her brother and partner, and battles with breast cancer and heart conditions, saw her performing into her seventies. She also faced bankruptcy in 1992 after financial losses. Martell's enduring presence in the entertainment industry was further highlighted by her performances alongside stars like Sammy Davis Jr. and Morecambe and Wise.
