# 5349 - 2019 First-Class Forever Stamp - Black Heritage: Gregory Hines

Gregory Hines (1946-2003) was a born entertainer.  His charisma and talent for improvisation shined on stage and screen.

Hines began tap dancing when he was just two years old, and began performing professionally at the age of five.  He and his brother then toured the country as "The Hines Kids."  They performed together until Hines was in his 20s, after which he formed a jazz-rock band.

In the 1970s, Hines took Broadway by storm, dancing and singing his way to wide critical acclaim.  His riveting performance in the lead role of Jelly's Last Jam earned him a Tony Award.  Hines then made the transition to film in 1981, appearing in Mel Brooks' The History of the World, Part I.  He would go on to appear in nearly 50 movies and television shows.  His 1989 film Tap was credited with popularizing the style with modern audiences by combining it with modern music.

Hines' greatest love was always tap dancing.  He was well-known for his ability to improvise tap steps and he inspired a new generation of tappers.  In 1988, he helped found National Tap Dance Day, which is celebrated around the world.  He also hosted Gregory Hines Tap Dance America, which showcased veteran, established, and up-and-coming tappers.  Hines once said that everything he did – singing, acting, and parenting, were all influenced by his love of dance.