Emmett "Babe" Wallace, born on June 24, 1909, in Brooklyn, New York, was a multifaceted artist known for his contributions as a singer, actor, and composer. Wallace began his career as a bouncer at Harlem's Savoy Ballroom at the age of 19, eventually transitioning to a performer at the venue. He graced some of the most prestigious stages worldwide, including Small's Paradise, The Apollo Theater, and The Cotton Club. Around 1940, he fronted Ella Fitzgerald's band and later moved to Israel in 1956, where he became a popular recording artist with the Blue Jazz record label, performing in both English and Yiddish.

Wallace's acting career was significant in the realm of Black Cinema. He co-starred in the 1943 classic film "Stormy Weather" alongside Lena Horne and Bill Robinson. His stage career included performances in "Anna Lucasta" in London (1947), "Les Folies Bergere" in Paris (1952), and "Guys and Dolls" on Broadway (1976) with Robert Guillaume and James Randolph. In recognition of his contributions, Wallace received the Paul Robeson Award from the Black American Cinema Society in 1989.

In addition to his performing arts career, Wallace was a prolific songwriter, poet, and novelist, with some of his works housed at the Schomburg Research Center for Black Culture. His songs were recorded by notable artists such as Benny Goodman, Ella Fitzgerald, and Cab Calloway. Wallace passed away in 2006, leaving behind a legacy that spanned music, film, and literature.