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**Janis Martin** *March 27, 1940 - September 3, 2007* Janis Martin was an American rockabilly and country music singer, born in Sutherlin, Virginia. Known as 'The Female Elvis' for her dynamic onstage presence, she was one of the few female Rock & Roll artists in a male-dominated industry, paving the way for future female singers like Brenda Lee. At the young age of 13, Martin began developing her proto-rockabilly style on the AM radio show Old Dominion Barn Dance in Richmond, Virginia, performing mostly country songs alongside Rhythm and Blues covers. By 15, she was signed with RCA, just two months after Elvis Presley. In 1956, she released her debut record "Will You Willyum," featuring her hit "Drugstore Rock'n Roll," which sold 750,000 copies and reached the country and pop charts. Her success led to performances on major television shows such as American Bandstand, The Today Show, and the Tonight Show, as well as appearances on Jubilee USA and the Grand Ole Opry. Billboard recognized her as the Most Promising Female Vocalist that year. Martin toured with the Jim Reeves show and continued to record successful songs, including "My Boy Elvis," "Let's Elope Baby," and a cover of Roy Orbison's "Oooby Dooby." However, her teenage marriage and subsequent pregnancy led to RCA dropping her in 1958.

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