Lead singer with American swing trio

Patty Andrews: Born: February 16th, 1918 Died: January 30th, 2013Patty Andrews, who has died aged 94, was the lead singer and soloist with the Andrews Sisters. The swinging American trio, comprising Patty and her older siblings, LaVerne and Maxene, achieved their greatest success in the 1940s, contributing to the war effort with catchy songs including Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree (With Anyone Else But Me) and, with Bing Crosby, Don't Fence Me In.

The Andrews Sisters performed at military bases and raised money for war bonds; their hits were sung by the troops and by women working in factories.

Success

Patricia Marie Andrews was born in Minnesota, the third daughter of a Greek immigrant, Peter (who had anglicised his surname), and his Norwegian wife, Olga. Inspired by the success of the Boswell Sisters, the pretty, blonde Patty and her siblings began in vaudeville in the early 1930s. The sisters toured the US with the Larry Rich band and before long were starring at the Hotel Edison in New York with Leon Belasco.

The Andrews family relocated to New York in 1937 and the sisters were offered a recording contract by Decca. Things took a momentous turn when they recorded Bei Mir Bist Du Schon. It reached No 1 in the US in 1938.

Patty, LaVerne and Maxene accompanied the most popular singers and big bands of the day; enjoyed success not just on radio but also in musical comedy films; and spawned a host of other sister acts.

She is survived by her foster daughter, Pam.