A woman with ambitions
Audrey P. Franklyn (b.1955) is a well-known concert promoter and publicist who has long been associated with jazz music. She worked with Ella Fitzgerald for 37 years and also with many other great artists.
She has extensive experience in the music industry, particularly in pop, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll. She also mentions having worked on around 500 commercials. In addition, she has appeared in films such as Pretty in Pink (1986), Midnight Run (1988), and The Blues Brothers (1980).
Connection to Mahalia Jackson
Behind every great personality is a team of dedicated people working behind the scenes. “Audrey P.” or simply “Audrey,” as she was known, was one of them. She was a dynamic promoter, business partner, and confidante.
An aspiring promoter with vision
Audrey P. Franklyn is described as an “aspiring promoter” who wanted to establish herself in show business. Her professional journey began with a short stint at Mahalia's own flower shop, the “House of Flowers,” where she was hired by Jackson himself. With a background as an accountant, a job she was eager to leave behind, Audrey's ambition in show business was deeply rooted. She wasn't just looking for a job; she was looking for a platform to showcase her skills and drive. Audrey P. was instrumental in strengthening Mahalia's presence in the music world. She actively promoted Jackson's records to radio stations and worked to elevate her image to a “prestigious level” that went beyond mere radio airplay. Her own experiences, such as organizing an Ella Fitzgerald show, gave her the confidence that she could take Mahalia's career to the next level.
Organizational talent and event expert
Audrey's organizational skills were undeniable. She was a driving force behind Mahalia's “Festival of the Stars,” an ambitious project for which she sent telegrams to celebrities such as Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles, Pearl Bailey, Lou Rawls, Dean Martin, and many others to secure their participation. These events demonstrated her ability to mobilize big names and expand Mahalia Jackson's influence.
She also played a central role in organizing a significant Easter concert at the Forum in Inglewood, which became an important event for Mahalia's foundation. In addition, she was actively involved in the Mahalia Jackson Foundation's “Salute to Black Women” events, underscoring her commitment to Mahalia's philanthropic work.
A relationship full of nuances
The relationship between Audrey P. and Mahalia was complex—close, but as was often the case in Mahalia's circle, not always smooth. Audrey P. was not afraid to give Mahalia advice, even on personal matters such as choosing more expensive motels to suit her status. Mahalia seemed to appreciate Audrey's directness and often let her take the lead on professional matters as long as it served “the Lord's work.”
A notable incident illustrates the dynamics of their relationship: When Mahalia accused Audrey P. of stealing money, Audrey P., a “slender, blonde, collegial-looking” woman of Jewish descent, responded emphatically that she did not steal. The money was eventually found by Mahalia herself “under a pile of junk” in a dresser—an incident that caused tension but did not break their bond.
A woman with ambitions
Audrey P. Franklyn is described in sources as someone who needed “compassion” but was also determined to advance her career and “fight her way to the top.” She loved “reflected fame like sunshine” — a reference to her desire to be in the spotlight, even if it was through her proximity to Mahalia Jackson.