Odetta
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Odetta
Odetta is a French girl name, which has 6 letters.
The name Odetta is of Greek origin, and it means "wealthy."
Rating
Be the first one to vote!
Log in to save this name to your favorites.
Detailed Information About The Name Odetta
Odetta is a unique and captivating name that carries historical and musical significance. This feminine name derives from the French name Ode, meaning "ode" or "song," and has an elegant and melodious quality. One notable figure who bore the name Odetta was a prominent African American folk singer and civil rights activist. Born on December 31, 1930, in Birmingham, Alabama, Odetta Holmes adopted her first name as her stage name. She became known simply as Odetta and was dubbed the "Voice of the Civil Rights Movement" due to her powerful interpretations of traditional African American folk songs.
Odetta began her singing career in the late 1940s and gained recognition in the 1950s and 1960s, performing and recording songs that dealt with racial injustice and inequality, inspiring and empowering many individuals. With her deep, resonant voice and commanding presence, Odetta influenced numerous artists, including Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Janis Joplin.
Odetta's performances were emotionally charged, evoking a sense of deep reflection and connection with her audience. She used her platform to advocate for social change and was closely associated with the American Civil Rights Movement. Odetta's renditions of songs like "This Little Light of Mine" and "O Freedom" served as anthems for the movement, offering solace and hope to those fighting for equality.
Beyond her activism, Odetta's talent extended to many genres, including blues, jazz, gospel, and spirituals. She played the guitar, banjo, and piano, showcasing her versatility as a musician. Throughout her career, Odetta released numerous albums and performed at renowned venues and events, leaving an indelible impact on American music and culture.
The name Odetta, through the legacy of this remarkable artist, serves as a symbol of resilience, empowerment, and the transformative power of music in the pursuit of justice. It continues to inspire individuals to use their voices for positive change and hold onto hope in the face of adversity.
Similar French Baby Names
Search Baby Names & Meanings
Search our growing database of baby names to find just the right name for your baby or to find out what your own name means!
Celebrity Baby Names
Celebrity baby names are usually not conventional, but some of them become popular. Here is our growing list of celebrity baby names.
Celebrity Baby NamesNaming Your Baby
Picking a name is one of the most important things you will do for your child, so why not take some time to look through our collection of baby naming resources.
Naming Your BabyUnusual Baby Names
Unique or unusual baby names are tempting when it is time to name your child; however, you should also be aware of the pitfalls that a unique name might have.
Unusual Baby NamesBiblical Baby Names
Biblical names are some of the most widely used names, and for good reason. The tradition and history behind these names makes them a great choice!
Biblical Baby NamesTypes of Baby Names
The baby name collection on this site is constantly evolving, and a good way to browse through our database is selecting the type of name you are interested in.
Types of Baby Names