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Tiny Tim: Remembering the Novelty Singer and ‘Tiptoe Through the Tulips’ Star
Herbert Khaury, widely recognized as Tiny Tim, was a celebrated American musician renowned for his distinctive falsetto voice and whimsical interpretation of ‘Tiptoe Through the Tulips’, originally composed by Al Dubin and Joe Burke. Born in 1932, the celebrated entertainer passed away in 1996, just hours after informing his wife of feeling unwell. His enduring legacy remains tied to his unique vocal style and novelty songs.
Early Musical Influences
The New York City native’s fascination with sound emerged at a young age, around five. His father, Butros Khaury, a textile worker hailing from modern-day Lebanon, gifted him a vintage wind-up gramophone for his birthday. Accompanied by a recording of Henry Burr’s ‘Beautiful Ohio’, this lavish present played a pivotal role in setting Tiny Tim on his path to musical stardom. However, it was not until 1968 that the vocalist achieved widespread recognition with his rendition of the 1929 tune, ‘Tiptoe Through the Tulips’.
Breakthrough and Setback
Tiny Tim’s rendition of the track reached number 17 on the Billboard music charts and was featured on his debut album, God Bless Tiny Tim. Despite this initial success, his burgeoning career faced a significant setback in 1973 when a car accident resulted in a collapsed lung and several fractured ribs, temporarily hindering his momentum.
Later Career and Final Performance
In subsequent years, the ukulele-playing personality experienced a decline in mainstream popularity. However, the dedicated performer continued to engage audiences until his death in 1996. In September of that year, Tiny Tim suffered a heart attack at a festival in Montague, Massachusetts. He received immediate medical attention and was admitted to Franklin County Medical Centre in Greenfield for a three-week observation period before being discharged.
Health Concerns and Tragic End
Reports indicate that the iconic singer was managing various health issues, including diabetes and heart conditions. Medical professionals had advised him to discontinue performing due to his deteriorating health. Tragically, Tiny Tim disregarded this expert counsel and experienced another heart attack onstage while performing his signature hit song, ‘Tiptoe Through the Tulips’.
Final Moments Onstage
On November 30, 1996, he was scheduled to perform at a gala benefit hosted by the Women’s Club of Minneapolis. The 6’1” entertainer, then married to his third wife, Susan Marie Gardner, a graduate of Harvard University, reportedly confided in his spouse about feeling unwell prior to the show.
Collapse During Performance
Despite his condition, the dedicated musician fulfilled his commitment to perform at the charity event. However, during a shortened rendition of ‘Tiptoe Through the Tulips’, the celebrated crooner suffered a fatal heart attack onstage.
Witness Account
According to his widow, Susan, she was assisting him back to his table when he suddenly collapsed. “I don’t think he had time to feel pain,” she recounted to the Associated Press. “He died singing ‘Tiptoe Through the Tulips,’ and the last thing he heard was the applause, and the last thing he saw was me.”
Legacy
Following his collapse, he was transported to a Minneapolis hospital. Despite resuscitation efforts, officials confirmed the Grammy-nominated artist’s death. His final resting place is in Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis, marking the end of an era for the unique and unforgettable Tiny Tim.