Lola Falana, known for her dazzling sequined gowns, captivating dance moves, and commanding stage presence, is one of entertainment’s most enigmatic figures. Born in Camden, New Jersey, to Cuban and African-American parents, she would go on to dominate Las Vegas stages, film sets, and television screens. Yet, behind the glamour and fame, Lola’s personal life and transformation into a spiritual leader tell a story of resilience, self-discovery, and devotion.
Lola Falana’s passion for performance began early. From the age of 3, she was dancing, and by 5, she was singing in the church choir. Raised in Philadelphia, she spent much of her youth accompanying her mother to nightclubs where she honed her craft. At 16, against her parents’ wishes, Lola moved to New York to pursue her dreams, marking the start of a career that would take her to the heights of fame.
Her breakthrough came in 1964 when Sammy Davis Jr. spotted her performing in a Broadway chorus line and offered her a starring role in Golden Boy. This partnership with Davis Jr. would prove pivotal, opening doors for Lola in both the music and film industries. By 1965, she had released her debut song, “My Baby,” and by 1966, she had made her film debut in A Man Called Adam. Her growing fame also took her to Italy, where she starred in several films, earning the nickname “The Black Venus.”
In the 1970s, Falana became the epitome of Las Vegas glamour. Performing at iconic venues such as the Sands, MGM Grand, and Aladdin, she was one of the highest-paid female entertainers in the city. Lola’s Las Vegas performances were nothing short of legendary, commanding up to $100,000 per week. At the time, she was second only to Wayne Newton in terms of earnings on the Strip.
Her diverse talents extended beyond the stage. Lola appeared regularly on television shows such as The Tonight Show, The Muppet Show, and The Flip Wilson Show, showcasing her abilities as a dancer, singer, and comedian. She also made history by becoming the first Black woman to appear in perfume advertisements for Tigress.
