Meaning: The quote "The acting was first. As a teenager I was an actress; and then I came back as a singer." by Julie London, the American singer and actress, reflects her journey from acting to singing and the evolution of her career in the entertainment industry. Julie London was known for her sultry, smoky voice and her success as a jazz and pop vocalist in the 1950s and 1960s. Born on September 26, 1926, in Santa Rosa, California, London began her career as an actress before transitioning to a successful singing career.

Julie London's statement highlights the sequential nature of her career trajectory. She started as an actress during her teenage years, presumably honing her skills in the performing arts. While the specific details of her acting career during this period are not widely documented, it is evident that she gained valuable experience in the entertainment industry, laying the foundation for her future endeavors.

London's transition from acting to singing marked a significant turning point in her career. Her decision to "come back as a singer" implies that she initially pursued acting, only to later rediscover her passion for music and performance. This shift underscores her versatility as a multi-talented artist and her ability to excel in different creative domains.

As a singer, Julie London achieved widespread acclaim and commercial success. She was renowned for her captivating vocal style, characterized by its intimate, smoldering quality. Her interpretations of jazz standards and popular songs resonated with audiences, earning her a dedicated fan base and critical praise. London's distinctive voice and emotive delivery set her apart as a consummate vocalist, and her recordings continue to be celebrated for their timeless appeal.

One of London's most iconic albums, "Julie Is Her Name," released in 1955, solidified her status as a leading voice in the music industry. The album featured intimate, stripped-down arrangements that showcased London's evocative vocals, and it remains a classic example of her artistry. Additionally, her recording of the song "Cry Me a River" became a signature tune, further establishing her as a prominent figure in the world of jazz and popular music.

Beyond her musical accomplishments, Julie London's impact extended to her work in television and film. She appeared in a number of movies and television shows, further demonstrating her versatility as a performer. Her acting background likely contributed to her magnetic stage presence and ability to connect with audiences on a deeper emotional level.

London's quote encapsulates the essence of her artistic evolution and the intertwining of her acting and singing careers. It serves as a testament to her enduring legacy as a multi-talented artist who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. By seamlessly transitioning from acting to singing, Julie London carved out a unique and influential path, leaving behind a body of work that continues to captivate and inspire audiences to this day.

In conclusion, Julie London's quote "The acting was first. As a teenager I was an actress; and then I came back as a singer" offers a glimpse into her transformative journey as a performer. It underscores the formative role of her early experiences in acting and her eventual return to the spotlight as a celebrated singer. London's ability to excel in both realms exemplifies her enduring impact and cements her legacy as a multifaceted talent in the realm of entertainment.