History of Helen Reddy in Timeline

Helen Reddy, an Australian-American entertainer, began her career at a young age, performing on radio and television in Australia. Winning a talent contest led her to New York to pursue a singing career, though initial attempts proved unsuccessful. After relocating to Chicago and then Los Angeles, she released her first singles, "One Way Ticket" and "I Believe in Music." While her early singles didn't achieve widespread success in the US, "I Don't Know How to Love Him" gained popularity in Canada. She eventually signed with Capitol Records, marking a significant step in her career.

1914: Birth of Maxwell David Reddy

Helen Reddy's father, Maxwell David Reddy, was born in 1914 in Melbourne, Victoria.

October 1941: Birth of Helen Reddy

Helen Reddy was born in Melbourne, Australia, in October 1941, to a show business family.

1959: Grammy Awards Commence

The Grammy Awards, which recognize achievements in the music industry, were first presented in 1959. Helen Reddy later won one Grammy Award out of two nominations.

1964: Stella Campbell's Role in "Homicide"

Reddy's mother, Stella Campbell, appeared on the television program "Homicide" in 1964.

1966: Bandstand Win and Move to New York

In 1966, Reddy won a talent contest on the television program Bandstand, leading to her move to New York City to pursue a singing career.

1966: Arrival in New York

Reddy arrived in New York in 1966 and decided to pursue a singing career in the United States.

1966: Performance at Three Rivers Inn

Reddy's performance at the Three Rivers Inn in Syracuse, New York, in 1966, was indicative of her early struggles in the US.

1967: Stella Campbell's Role in "Bellbird"

Stella Campbell appeared on the television program "Bellbird" in 1967.

1968: Reddy Marries Jeff Wald

In 1968, Helen Reddy married Jeff Wald after converting to Judaism. Their marriage marked the beginning of a significant personal and professional partnership.

1968: Move to Chicago and Record Deal

Reddy and her family moved to Chicago, where she gained recognition performing in local lounges and signed a record deal with Fontana Records in 1968.

1968: Debut Singles and Move to Los Angeles

Reddy released her debut single, "One Way Ticket", and eventually moved to Los Angeles in 1968.

1969: Enrollment at UCLA

Reddy enrolled at the University of California, Los Angeles, to study psychology and philosophy part-time in 1969.

1970: Release of "I Believe in Music"

In 1970, Reddy released the single "I Believe in Music", with its B-side, "I Don't Know How to Love Him", achieving chart success in Canada.

May 1971: Debut Album Release

Helen Reddy released her debut album, "I Don't Know How to Love Him," in May 1971. The album included the original recording of "I Am Woman."

June 1971: "I Don't Know How to Love Him" Canadian Hit

In June 1971, Helen Reddy's song "I Don't Know How to Love Him" became a surprise hit in Canada, reaching number 13 on the charts after Canadian DJs favored it over the A-side, "I Believe in Music". This marked a turning point in her career, leading to increased attention from her manager and record label.

1971: Stella Campbell's Role in "Country Town"

Stella Campbell appeared on the television program "Country Town" in 1971.

May 1972: "I Am Woman" Initial Single Release

In May 1972, Helen Reddy released "I Am Woman" as a single. The song's initial release did not perform well on the charts.

December 1972: "I Am Woman" Tops the Charts

In December 1972, Helen Reddy's song "I Am Woman" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying her status as a star and becoming an anthem for the women's movement. It also earned her a Grammy Award.

1972: Release of Second Album

Helen Reddy released her second studio album, *Helen Reddy*, in 1972. This album would achieve gold status, unlike her later albums following *Ear Candy*.

1972: Birth of Reddy's Son Jordan

In 1972, Helen Reddy and Jeff Wald welcomed their son Jordan, adding to Reddy's family life and personal achievements.

1973: The Helen Reddy Show Premieres

In 1973, Helen Reddy helmed her own summer replacement series, The Helen Reddy Show, which provided national exposure for talents like Albert Brooks and the Pointer Sisters.

1973: Start of Easy Listening Chart Success

In 1973, Helen Reddy's "Delta Dawn" began a string of eight number-one hits on the Easy Listening chart.

July 1974: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

On July 23, 1974, Helen Reddy received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to the music industry.

1974: Reddy Becomes a Naturalized American Citizen

In 1974, Helen Reddy became a naturalized American citizen, expressing mixed emotions about the transition. She later regained Australian citizenship when dual citizenship became available.

1974: Reddy Wins American Music Award

In 1974, Helen Reddy received an American Music Award, marking a significant achievement and recognition in her music career.

1974: American Music Award Win

In 1974, Reddy won the Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist award at the inaugural American Music Awards.

1975: East Asia/Oceania Tour and Gold Records

During 1975, Helen Reddy toured East Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, and received 16 gold records across those regions.

1975: Reddy Stars in Pete's Dragon

In 1975, Helen Reddy starred in Walt Disney's Pete's Dragon, performing the Oscar-nominated song "Candle on the Water" and playing a nun in Airport 1975, for which she received a Golden Globe nomination.

1975: Reddy Hosts The Midnight Special

In 1975, Helen Reddy was a semiregular host on the late-night variety show The Midnight Special, showcasing her versatility and popularity in the entertainment industry.

1975: Reddy's Account of Meeting Wald

In 1975, Reddy recounted her first meeting with Jeff Wald, describing it as "love at first sight".

1975: People's Choice Awards Established

In 1975, the People's Choice Awards, an American awards show recognizing people in entertainment as voted by the public, began its annual tradition.

1975: Reddy Discusses Marriage and Career

In a 1975 interview, Helen Reddy revealed the volatile nature of her marriage to Jeff Wald, attributing much of her career success to him while acknowledging their partnership's challenges.

1976: Decline in Popularity

By 1976, Helen Reddy's popularity began to decline, marked by the lower chart performance of "I Can't Hear You No More".

1976: Continued Hosting on The Midnight Special

Helen Reddy continued to serve as a semiregular host on The Midnight Special in 1976, further establishing her presence in the entertainment world.

1976: Las Vegas Headliner and "The Fool on the Hill" Recording

In 1976, Helen Reddy headlined shows on the Las Vegas Strip and recorded the Beatles' song "The Fool on the Hill" for the documentary "All This and World War II".

1977: "You're My World" Comeback Attempt

In 1977, Helen Reddy attempted a comeback with a remake of Cilla Black's "You're My World", which reached number 18. However, this would be her last top-40 hit.

1977: "Candle on the Water" and Disco Tracks

In 1977, Helen Reddy released "Candle on the Water" from the Disney film "Pete's Dragon" (in which she also starred). She also released disco tracks "Ready or Not" and "Make Love to Me."

1978: Backup Vocals and Live Album

In 1978, Helen Reddy sang backup vocals on Gene Simmons's solo album and released her only live album, "Live in London".

1978: Reddy in Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band

In 1978, Helen Reddy was featured among musical stars in the film Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, showcasing her continued influence in the music and film industry.

1979: Becky Hobbs Releases Original "I Can't Say Goodbye to You"

Becky Hobbs originally released the country hit, "I Can't Say Goodbye to You", in 1979. Helen Reddy would later remake it in 1981.

1979: The Helen Reddy Special Airs

In 1979, Helen Reddy hosted The Helen Reddy Special on ABC-TV, demonstrating her continued appeal and versatility as an entertainer.

January 1981: Reddy and Wald Separate

By January 1981, Helen Reddy and Jeff Wald had separated due to Wald's cocaine addiction. Despite initiating divorce proceedings, Reddy withdrew her petition, citing the short separation period as insufficient for a final decision.

May 1981: MCA Records Debut

In May 1981, Helen Reddy released "Play Me Out", her debut album with MCA Records, hoping for renewed success with the label.

September 1981: Reddy Plans TV Sitcom

In September 1981, Helen Reddy announced plans to shoot a pilot for a TV sitcom in which she would play a single mother and lounge singer. However, the project was ultimately abandoned.

November 1981: "I Can't Say Goodbye to You" on Top of the Pops

On November 14, 1981, Helen Reddy performed "I Can't Say Goodbye to You" on Top of the Pops, leading to the song's chart entry in the UK and Ireland.

1981: Frustration with Capitol Records

By 1981, Helen Reddy expressed frustration with Capitol Records, feeling they were not supporting her career sufficiently.

1981: Release of "I Can't Say Goodbye to You"

Reddy released her last charting US single, "I Can't Say Goodbye to You", in 1981.

1982: Reddy Files for Divorce Again

In 1982, Helen Reddy separated from Jeff Wald and filed for divorce after discovering his continued substance abuse. The divorce was finalized in January 1983, leading to a custody battle over their son.

1982: APRA Awards Commence

The Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA) began presenting annual awards in 1982 to honor composers and songwriters, highlighting the importance of musical contributions in which Helen Reddy's legacy is recognized.

January 1983: Reddy's Divorce from Wald Finalized

In January 1983, Helen Reddy's divorce from Jeff Wald was finalized, concluding their tumultuous marriage. They initially agreed to shared custody of their son Jordan, but later entered a custody dispute.

June 1983: Reddy Marries Milton Ruth

In June 1983, Helen Reddy married Milton Ruth, a drummer in her band. Their marriage lasted until 1995 when they divorced.

1983: Final Album Release

In 1983, Helen Reddy released "Imagination", which would be her final album as a career recording artist.

1987: Reddy Appears in Disorderlies

Helen Reddy took on a cameo role in the comedy film Disorderlies, released in 1987, adding to her diverse filmography.

1987: "Mysterious Kind" Recording

In 1987, Helen Reddy provided vocal support on Jessica Williams' dance single "Mysterious Kind".

1987: ARIA Music Awards Inception

In 1987, the ARIA Music Awards were established to celebrate excellence in Australian music, a platform where Helen Reddy's influence and achievements could be recognized.

1990: "Feel So Young" Release

In 1990, Helen Reddy released the album "Feel So Young" on her own label.

1995: Reddy Divorces Milton Ruth

In 1995, Helen Reddy divorced Milton Ruth, ending their marriage of over a decade.

1997: "Center Stage" Release

In 1997, Helen Reddy released "Center Stage", an album of show tunes.

2000: "The Best Christmas Ever" Release

In 2000, Helen Reddy released the Christmas album "The Best Christmas Ever".

2002: Retirement and Move to Australia

In 2002, Helen Reddy retired from performing after a farewell performance with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. She then moved back to her native Australia.

2002: Retirement from Live Performance

Reddy retired from live performing in 2002.

August 2006: ARIA Hall of Fame Induction

In August 2006, Helen Reddy was inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Hall of Fame.

2007: Reddy's Voice Cameo in Family Guy

In 2007, Helen Reddy made a voice cameo as herself in the Family Guy Star Wars parody episode "Blue Harvest," showcasing her enduring cultural presence.

April 2008: Landlord Keeps Rent Stable for Helen Reddy

In April 2008, Helen Reddy was living in a 13th-floor apartment with a view of Sydney Harbour. Her landlord, upon discovering her identity and contributions to women's rights, decided not to sell the unit or increase her rent, allowing her to continue living there comfortably.

2008: Reddy Retires from Performing

In 2008, Helen Reddy expressed that she would not be returning to the stage due to a change in her voice and a lack of interest in performing. She mentioned having other wide-ranging interests that occupied her time.

2010: Reddy's Cameo in The Perfect Host

In 2010, Helen Reddy made a cameo appearance in the film The Perfect Host, continuing her occasional engagement with the film industry.

2011: Return to Live Performing

After singing with her half-sister, Reddy decided to return to live performing in 2011.

2011: Billboard Recognition

In 2011, Billboard named Reddy the number-28 adult contemporary artist of all time.

2011: Reddy's Guest Appearance on Family Guy

In 2011, Helen Reddy guest-starred on Family Guy, performing the theme song for the show's fictional Channel 5 News telecast, marking another engagement with contemporary media.

2011: Reddy Considers Returning to Performing

In 2011, after performing at her sister's 80th birthday, Helen Reddy was encouraged by the positive reception and began contemplating a return to the stage, having not heard her own singing voice for a decade.

2011: Reddy Enjoys Retirement from Show Business

In 2011, during an Australian television interview, Helen Reddy stated that she was content with her retirement from the entertainment industry, confirming her decision to leave performing behind.

2013: Reddy Plans Comeback to Stage

By 2013, Helen Reddy had decided to return to performing, inspired by the positive experience of singing at her sister's birthday and realizing her voice still resonated well with audiences.

2013: "Queen of '70s Pop"

The Chicago Tribune dubbed Reddy the "Queen of '70s Pop" in 2013.

April 2015: Beatles Cover Release

In April 2015, Helen Reddy released a cover of the Beatles' "All You Need Is Love" for the album "Keep Calm and Salute The Beatles".

August 2015: Reddy Diagnosed with Dementia

In August 2015, Helen Reddy was diagnosed with dementia and moved into the Motion Picture and Television Fund's Samuel Goldwyn Center, receiving care from family and friends.

2017: Reddy Performs at Women's March

On January 21, 2017, Helen Reddy performed at the Women's March in Los Angeles, singing "I Am Woman" a cappella to a crowd of 750,000, an event supporting women's rights and unity following the inauguration of Donald Trump.

2018: Inaugural Australian Women in Music Awards

The first Australian Women in Music Awards took place in 2018, celebrating influential women like Helen Reddy who have made significant contributions to the music industry.

2019: Release of I Am Woman Biopic

In 2019, the biographical film I Am Woman was released, depicting the life of Helen Reddy with Tilda Cobham-Hervey portraying Reddy, further cementing her legacy in popular culture.

September 2020: Death of Helen Reddy

Helen Reddy passed away in September 2020.

December 2020: Ranked in Rolling Stone Australia

In December 2020, Helen Reddy was recognized for her contributions to music by being ranked number 35 on Rolling Stone Australia's list of the "50 Greatest Australian Artists of All Time".

November 12, 2021: Death of Jeff Wald

On November 12, 2021, Jeff Wald, Helen Reddy's second husband and former manager, passed away at the age of 77, marking the end of a significant chapter in Reddy's personal and professional life.