Julie Budd

Born Edith Erdman on May 4, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, Julie Budd began showcasing her vocal talents at a young age. At 12, after winning a talent contest in the Catskill Mountains, she was discovered by producer/arranger Herb Bernstein, who became her manager and mentor. Her distinctive voice quickly led to a recording contract with MGM Records, and she released her debut album, “Child of Plenty,” at age 13 in 1968. This early success propelled her into the national spotlight, with appearances on major television programs such as “The Merv Griffin Show,” “The Ed Sullivan Show,” and “The Tonight Show.” Her early career was marked by comparisons to Barbra Streisand, earning her the moniker “The Mini-Girl with the Maxi-Voice,” and she frequently opened for legendary performers like Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, and Liberace, establishing herself as a formidable talent by her teenage years.

Throughout her career, Julie Budd has maintained a strong presence in the entertainment industry, balancing her singing career with acting roles. She made her film debut in the Walt Disney feature “The Devil and Max Devlin” in 1981, co-starring with Elliott Gould and Bill Cosby, where she performed the songs “Any Fools Can See” and her signature tune, “Roses and Rainbows.” While a multi-picture deal with Disney was canceled due to company changes, she later appeared in the 2008 film “Two Lovers.” On stage, Budd has performed in Neil Simon’s “They’re Playing Our Song” and the revue “Catskills on Broadway.” She is also known for her extensive concert work, gracing prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the London Palladium, and the Tel Aviv Performing Arts Center. Collaborating with esteemed musical directors like Marvin Hamlisch, she has performed as a soloist with numerous prominent classical orchestras, including the Seattle Symphony, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and the National Symphony.

Julie Budd’s career is characterized by longevity and versatility, transitioning from a child prodigy to an accomplished adult artist. Her discography includes albums such as “Pure Imagination” (1997), “If You Could See Me Now” (2000), “The New Classics” (2005), and “Remembering Mr. Sinatra” (2015), which commemorated Frank Sinatra’s centenary. She has performed alongside a diverse range of artists and continues to engage audiences with her one-woman shows in showrooms and symphonic halls globally. Her dedication to her craft also extends to teaching master classes in singing, sharing her vast experience and unique vocal approach with aspiring performers. Budd’s enduring commitment to live performance underscores her status as a respected figure in American popular music.