A revised edition of the 2003 publication of the same name, this work contains a slightly higher number of entries (192) than the previous edition and changes and updates the artists treated. Profiling actors, dancers, singers, musicians, composers, and choreographers (the latter two categories only when they are performers as well as creators), alphabetically arranged entries were selected based on “personal preference, historical importance, variety, and level of achievement.” Figures considered of landmark importance, such as Bill Cosby, Diana Ross, and Sidney Poitier, have comparatively longer entries than more minor figures (for example, dancer Peg Leg Bates or singer Charley Pride). Selection of more contemporary performing artists was made based upon uniqueness or substantial contribution.
