She was the top female box office draw of the 1950s and early 60s.
Her hit songs at the time were radio mainstays.
She defined sunny, all-American wholesomeness.
Summing up her buoyant persona many years ago, she said: I like joy.
I want to be joyous.
I want to have fun on the set.
I want to wear beautiful clothes and look pretty.
I want to smile and I want to make people laugh.
And thats all I want.
I like being happy.
I want to make others happy.
Her talents scored her a role in the 1948 comedyRomance on the High Seas.
1 hit; the song went on to win an Academy Award) andThe Pajama Gamein 1957.
The Oscar-winning tune became a massive hit and remained Days signature song throughout her career.
By the late 60s, Days squeaky-clean persona fell out of step with the times and her appeal waned.
