Biography
Charles DeForest maintained a steady presence across New York’s cabaret circuit spanning more than forty years. Once a featured singer alongside Benny Goodman, he continued appearing at local piano bars right up until weeks prior to his death from cancer in July 1996, closing out his stage work via a three-year engagement at Danny’s Grand Sea Palace.
Songwriting formed DeForest’s most enduring contribution, supplying material later interpreted by Tony Bennett, George Shearing, Chris Connor, and Marian McPartland. His last recording, Christopher Gines Sings Charles DeForest, appeared in 1995 and showcased both his original compositions and his own piano work. The New York Times observed, “The songs [DeForest] writes are blithe, Porter-like lyrics riding on a catchy, rhythmic pulse.”
Serving as composer, lyricist, and lead performer in the musical film City by Dawn—an Atlanta Film Festival prizewinner—DeForest earned the Mabel Mercer Foundation’s Cabaret Classic award in 1992 along with the Manhattan Association of Cabaret and Clubs award in both 1992 and 1995.
Songwriting formed DeForest’s most enduring contribution, supplying material later interpreted by Tony Bennett, George Shearing, Chris Connor, and Marian McPartland. His last recording, Christopher Gines Sings Charles DeForest, appeared in 1995 and showcased both his original compositions and his own piano work. The New York Times observed, “The songs [DeForest] writes are blithe, Porter-like lyrics riding on a catchy, rhythmic pulse.”
Serving as composer, lyricist, and lead performer in the musical film City by Dawn—an Atlanta Film Festival prizewinner—DeForest earned the Mabel Mercer Foundation’s Cabaret Classic award in 1992 along with the Manhattan Association of Cabaret and Clubs award in both 1992 and 1995.