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Known for his velvet vocals and masterful piano, Bobby Short (Robert Waltrip Short) left an indelible mark on New York City’s cabaret scene. Born September 15, 1924 in Danville, Illinois, Short rose to become a cultural icon with a signature 36-year residency at Café Carlyle in Manhattan (1968–2004). He championed the Great American Songbook and African-American composers, turning contemporary audiences into lifelong fans. In 2000, the Library of Congress designated him a Living Legend, recognizing his substantial artistic contributions. Short’s recordings span Atlantic-era studio albums, Telarc live performances, and later reissues of Café Carlyle sets, preserving his timeless interpretations for new generations in cities where music lives in intimate rooms and late-night venues alike.