Lena Martell, a Scottish vocalist who achieved international recognition through a blend of country and gospel music, died at the age of 86. Her career encompassed performances across multiple continents, from dance halls in her native Scotland to prestigious venues in London, Las Vegas, and Sydney, establishing her as a versatile entertainer who worked alongside notable artists of her era.
Martell achieved her greatest commercial success with the single “One Day at a Time,” written by Marijohn Wilkin and Kris Kristofferson. Released initially two years prior without gaining traction, the song was re-promoted and ascended to the number-one position for three weeks in 1979, displacing releases from established acts. The track became Scotland’s first number-one single by a solo female artist and achieved worldwide sales of 2.5 million copies. While the single remained her only major chart success in Britain, Martell released approximately six albums that reached the Top 40 between 1974 and 1980, showcasing her contralto voice and easy-listening approach.
Her television presence significantly boosted her career visibility. She hosted several BBC programs beginning with “Presenting Lena Martell,” which ran from 1971 to 1973 and attracted audiences exceeding 12 million viewers, followed by subsequent series including “Music with Martell” and “Lena’s Music.” Her entertainment background began in childhood when she performed with her brother in a Dixie band, progressing through London’s cabaret circuit where she worked as both performer and compere at establishments including the New Bagatelle in Mayfair from 1960 onward.
Martell’s personal life included significant challenges. She underwent vocal surgery during her 1964 Broadway engagement in “Funny Girl,” where she had been engaged as an understudy. She subsequently experienced the deaths of both her brother and boyfriend, later battled breast cancer while caring for her mother who had Alzheimer’s disease, and underwent a triple heart bypass operation in 2008. She faced financial difficulties in 1992 when declared bankrupt following losses in a failed property venture. Her performing career extended into her seventies before her health declined.
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