Marilyn Horne was an American opera singer who had a long and successful career. She was known for her mezzo-soprano voice and her ability to sing a wide range of roles. She was the first African-American woman to become a leading artist at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. She also performed in many other opera houses around the world, including La Scala in Milan, Covent Garden in London, and the Vienna State Opera. She was awarded numerous honors throughout her career, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and a National Medal of Arts.