Maurice Hines Sr.: A Legacy of Rhythm, Dance, and Family

Biography & Career

Full Name: Maurice Robert Hines Sr. Born: April 13, 1922, in Newark, New Jersey Died: December 29, 2010, in New York City, New York, at age 88 Occupations: Drummer, Dancer, Actor, and Producer Career Span: Over 60 years, beginning in the 1940s and lasting until his death in 2010

Maurice Hines Sr. was a key person in the entertainment business. He was a drummer, dancer, and the head of the famous Hines family. He started his career in the 1940s by playing in jazz clubs, theatre plays, and on TV. He played a big role in the careers of his two sons, Maurice Hines Jr. and Gregory Hines. Both went on to become well-known in the performing arts and tap dance.

Hines Sr. had a big impact on the entertainment business because he was so dedicated to musical theatre and dance and was so good at getting other people to want to be performers. He also played in the family act “Hines, Hines & Dad,” which got a lot of notice for its exciting performances on different platforms.

Major Works & Contributions

• “Hines, Hines & Dad”: A family act featuring Maurice Hines Sr. and his two sons. It became a notable part of their early careers, showcasing their talents on stage and television.
• The Cotton Club: Maurice Hines Sr. had connections to the famed venue and the entertainment world it represented.
• Television & Film Appearances: He made several television appearances, including performances on variety shows and specials, bringing jazz and tap dance to the mainstream.

Accolades

Hines Sr. didn’t win as many big accolades as his sons, but people recognised him for his work in the entertainment industry and how he helped his kids’ careers. His work as a mentor and the fact that he was the father of two famous tap dancers show how much he meant to people.

Family Background

Father: Maurice Hines Sr. was born to an African American family in New Jersey. His early exposure to music and rhythm led him to become a versatile performer. Mother: Details about his mother’s background are less known, but it is clear that his household was deeply supportive of the arts. Sons:

• Maurice Hines Jr.: A talented actor, singer, choreographer, and tap dancer, Maurice Jr. was mentored by his father and went on to have a prolific career in theater and film.
• Gregory Hines: One of the most famous tap dancers and actors of all time, Gregory won two Emmys and was nominated for a Tony. He was a big part of tap dancing history for many years.

Maurice Hines Sr.’s family was deeply embedded in the arts, with his children carrying forward his musical and dance legacy on stages across the world.

Financial Context & Net Worth

It is not possible to find out exactly how much money Maurice Hines Sr. had, but it is apparent that his work as a performer, producer, and mentor undoubtedly gave him financial stability. His money came from his work on Broadway, in movies, and on TV, as well as from his family’s successful performances as ‘Hines, Hines & Dad’. Maurice Hines Sr.’s lasting impact and the legacy of his children meant that his work in the entertainment industry continued to have an effect long after he died.

Summary Table

FAQ

What was Maurice Hines Sr.’s role in the entertainment industry?

Maurice Hines Sr. was a talented performer who could play the drums, dance, and act. He helped his kids get started in their careers and worked on several theatre and TV projects throughout his life.

How did Maurice Hines Sr. influence his children?

Hines Sr. mentored his sons, Maurice Jr. and Gregory, in the arts. His support and training played a pivotal role in their successful careers, especially in the world of tap dance and theater.

What was “Hines, Hines & Dad”?

The family act “Hines, Hines & Dad” included Maurice Hines Sr. and his two sons, Maurice Jr. and Gregory. The three of them played together at a number of places and were known for their musical and tap dance performances.

Did Maurice Hines Sr. receive major awards in his lifetime?

While Maurice Hines Sr. did not receive major awards like his sons, his influence as a mentor and performer in the entertainment industry was widely respected.

What is the legacy of Maurice Hines Sr.?

Maurice Hines Sr.’s children are now famous in the world of dance and theatre, which is a heritage that lives on. His family and he helped shape the tap dancing history and the arts in general.