Billy Tipton

Pianist

Birthday December 29, 1914

Birth Sign Capricorn

Birthplace Oklahoma

DEATH DATE Jan 21, 1989 (74)

#213151 Most Popular

About

Jazz musician who posed as a man for his entire life when in reality he was a woman. He was the leader of the Billy Tipton Trio.

Before Fame

He and his trio were discovered while playing at Santa Barbara's King's Supper Club by a Tops Records talent scout who gave them a contract soon after.

Trivia

He had to retire in the late 1970s because of arthritis.

Family Life

He had several female relationships throughout his life, most of whom went by Mrs. Tipton to preserve his secret. He and his partner Kitty Kelly adopted three sons: John, Scott, and William.

Associated With

He would impersonate celebrities like Liberace and Elvis during his shows.