From kidnapping and carnivals to gangsters and the greatest disappearing act in showbiz, Jackie Shane's story is like nothing else. The unbelievable story of transgender soul singer Jackie Shane:
To say that Jackie Shane is fierce would be an understatement. Her story involves kidnapping, carnival sideshows, gangsters and a disappearing act that led to rumours of her death -- and possible murder -- for decades. The real crime is that the story of Jackie Shane, pioneering transgender soul singer, remains a footnote in musical history; she's an icon that never was.
In Jackie's 60s heyday, almost everything about her was either illegal or discriminated against. Stepping out on the street meant she was putting herself in a vulnerable position, as both a transgender woman and a black woman. Prior to 1962, sodomy was still a felony in every US state, and in Canada, where Jackie spent a lot of time in the 60s. Decriminalisation of homosexual acts didn't pass until 1969, and the cops could still bust you for 'crossdressing'.
Although Jackie sang in the church choir, she began her music career in earnest as a drummer and, as we all know, female drummers rule. In one of her first bands, Jackie played drums standing up, Moe Tucker style, while belting out lead vocals. Later she'd go on to lay down drums on tracks like Lillian Offitt's. In the 50s, Jackie joined the soul tent of a travelling carnival which is how she first ventured to Canada.
Soon Jackie would meet Frank Motley and his Motley Crew . Together Frank Motley & the Motley Crew featuring Jackie Shane were a hot ticket on the club scene, packing out venues in Boston and Montreal at places like the Esquire Show Bar. Frank Motley helped make Jackie but, like so many men in her life, he would turn out to be a disappointment, taking advantage of her talent and allegedly threatening her with a knife.
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