Unveil The Legacy: Etta James' Iconic Home For Sale

Unveil The Legacy: Etta James' Iconic Home For Sale

Did you know that Etta James's house is a historical landmark?

Etta James's house is a historic landmark located in the Crenshaw district of Los Angeles, California. The house was built in 1922 and was purchased by James in 1961. She lived in the house until her death in 2012.

The house is a two-story, Spanish-style home with four bedrooms and three bathrooms. It is situated on a large lot with a swimming pool and a tennis court. The house has been designated as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument.

James was a legendary singer who was known for her powerful vocals and her soulful performances. She was one of the most successful female singers of the 1960s and 1970s, and she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.

James's house is a reminder of her legacy and her impact on American music. It is a place where she lived, worked, and raised her family. The house is also a symbol of the cultural history of Los Angeles.

Etta James House

Etta James's house is a historic landmark located in the Crenshaw district of Los Angeles, California. The house was built in 1922 and was purchased by James in 1961. She lived in the house until her death in 2012.

  • Historical
  • Landmark
  • Spanish-style
  • Four bedrooms
  • Three bathrooms
  • Swimming pool
  • Tennis court
  • Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument

These key aspects highlight the historical and architectural significance of Etta James's house. The house is a reminder of her legacy and her impact on American music. It is also a symbol of the cultural history of Los Angeles.

1. Historical

The historical significance of Etta James's house lies in its connection to her legacy and impact on American music, as well as its status as a symbol of the cultural history of Los Angeles.

  • Historical Landmark

    Etta James's house has been designated as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, recognizing its architectural and historical importance.

  • Residence of a Legendary Musician

    Etta James was a legendary singer who lived in the house from 1961 until her death in 2012. Her presence has imbued the house with a sense of history and cultural significance.

  • Cultural Symbol

    The house is located in the Crenshaw district of Los Angeles, a historically African American neighborhood. It is a symbol of the cultural history of the neighborhood and the city as a whole.

  • Architectural Significance

    The house is a well-preserved example of Spanish-style architecture, which was popular in Los Angeles in the early 20th century.

These historical facets combine to make Etta James's house a significant landmark and a reminder of her legacy and impact on American music.

2. Landmark

A landmark is a building, structure, or site that is of historical or cultural significance. Landmarks are often protected by law and are often open to the public. Etta James's house is a landmark because it is associated with the life and work of a legendary musician. The house is a well-preserved example of Spanish-style architecture and is located in a historically African American neighborhood. The house is a reminder of James's legacy and her impact on American music. It is also a symbol of the cultural history of Los Angeles.

The designation of Etta James's house as a landmark is important because it helps to preserve her legacy and the cultural history of Los Angeles. The landmark designation also helps to protect the house from demolition or alteration. The house is a valuable asset to the community and is a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.

The connection between "landmark" and "Etta James's house" is significant because it highlights the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. Landmarks are a reminder of our past and help us to connect with the people and events that have shaped our history. Etta James's house is a landmark that is associated with a legendary musician and is a symbol of the cultural history of Los Angeles. The house is a reminder of James's legacy and her impact on American music. It is also a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.

3. Spanish-style

The connection between "Spanish-style" and "Etta James's house" lies in the architectural design of the house. Spanish-style architecture is a style of architecture that was popular in the United States in the early 20th century. It is characterized by its white stucco walls, red tile roofs, and arched doorways and windows.

Etta James's house is a well-preserved example of Spanish-style architecture. The house was built in 1922 and has many of the of the style, including white stucco walls, a red tile roof, and arched doorways and windows. The house is also located in the Crenshaw district of Los Angeles, which is a historically African American neighborhood. The presence of a Spanish-style house in a predominantly African American neighborhood is a reminder of the diverse architectural history of Los Angeles.

The Spanish-style of Etta James's house is significant because it reflects the cultural influences that were present in Los Angeles in the early 20th century. The house is a reminder of the city's history as a melting pot of different cultures. The house is also a reminder of the importance of preserving our architectural heritage. Spanish-style architecture is a beautiful and unique style that should be celebrated and preserved.

4. Four bedrooms

Etta James's house has four bedrooms. This is significant because it provides insight into the size and layout of the house, as well as the lifestyle of Etta James and her family.

  • Size and Layout

    The fact that the house has four bedrooms suggests that it is a relatively large house. This is consistent with the other information we have about the house, such as the fact that it has three bathrooms, a swimming pool, and a tennis court. The four bedrooms likely include a master bedroom, a guest bedroom, and two additional bedrooms for children or other family members.

  • Lifestyle

    The fact that the house has four bedrooms also suggests that Etta James and her family lived a comfortable and spacious lifestyle. Four bedrooms is more than enough space for a family of four or five people. This suggests that Etta James and her family were able to live comfortably and have plenty of space for their needs.

  • Historical Context

    The fact that the house has four bedrooms is also significant in terms of its historical context. In the early 20th century, when the house was built, it was common for middle-class and upper-class families to have homes with four or more bedrooms. This suggests that Etta James and her family were part of a growing middle class of African Americans who were able to achieve economic success and live a comfortable lifestyle.

Overall, the fact that Etta James's house has four bedrooms provides insight into the size, layout, lifestyle, and historical context of the house. It is a significant detail that helps to paint a more complete picture of Etta James and her life.

5. Three bathrooms

The presence of three bathrooms in Etta James's house is significant for several reasons. It provides insights into the size, layout, and lifestyle of the house, as well as the historical context of the property.

  • Size and Layout

    The fact that the house has three bathrooms suggests that it is a relatively large house. This is consistent with the other information we have about the house, such as the fact that it has four bedrooms, a swimming pool, and a tennis court. The three bathrooms likely include a master bathroom, a guest bathroom, and a third bathroom for children or other family members.

  • Lifestyle

    The fact that the house has three bathrooms also suggests that Etta James and her family lived a comfortable and spacious lifestyle. Three bathrooms is more than enough space for a family of four or five people. This suggests that Etta James and her family were able to live comfortably and have plenty of space for their needs.

  • Historical Context

    The fact that the house has three bathrooms is also significant in terms of its historical context. In the early 20th century, when the house was built, it was common for middle-class and upper-class families to have homes with three or more bathrooms. This suggests that Etta James and her family were part of a growing middle class of African Americans who were able to achieve economic success and live a comfortable lifestyle.

Overall, the presence of three bathrooms in Etta James's house provides insights into the size, layout, lifestyle, and historical context of the house. It is a significant detail that helps to paint a more complete picture of Etta James and her life.

6. Swimming pool

Etta James's house includes a swimming pool, an amenity that enhances the property's value and provides recreational opportunities. The presence of a swimming pool is significant for several reasons:

  • Entertainment and Recreation

    A swimming pool offers a space for relaxation, entertainment, and physical activity. Etta James and her family could use the pool to cool off on hot days, swim for exercise, or host pool parties with friends and neighbors.

  • Luxury and Status

    In the early to mid-20th century, swimming pools were often seen as a luxury amenity, associated with wealth and status. The presence of a swimming pool at Etta James's house reflects her success as a musician and her ability to afford a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle.

  • Historical Context

    Swimming pools became increasingly popular in Southern California during the mid-20th century, as the region's population grew and the climate encouraged outdoor activities. The presence of a swimming pool at Etta James's house is consistent with the architectural and lifestyle trends of the time.

  • Cultural Significance

    Swimming pools have cultural significance, particularly in African American communities. They have been associated with recreation, leisure, and social gatherings. The presence of a swimming pool at Etta James's house reflects her connection to the African American community and the cultural traditions of the time.

Overall, the swimming pool at Etta James's house is a significant feature that provides insights into her lifestyle, status, and the historical and cultural context of the property.

7. Tennis court

The tennis court at Etta James's house is a significant feature that offers insights into her lifestyle, recreational preferences, and the cultural context of the property.

  • Recreation and Leisure

    The tennis court provided Etta James and her family with a space for recreation, exercise, and entertainment. Tennis is a popular sport that requires skill, athleticism, and strategy. The presence of a tennis court at her house suggests that Etta James enjoyed engaging in physical activities and spending time outdoors.

  • Social Gatherings

    Tennis courts can also serve as a venue for social gatherings and friendly competitions. Etta James could have used the tennis court to host parties, invite guests for matches, or engage in social activities with her community.

  • Status and Luxury

    In the mid-20th century, tennis courts were often associated with luxury and status. Owning a tennis court was a sign of affluence and the ability to afford a comfortable and lavish lifestyle. The presence of a tennis court at Etta James's house reflects her success as a musician and her attainment of wealth and social standing.

  • Historical Context

    The popularity of tennis courts in Southern California grew significantly during the mid-20th century, as the region's population and economy expanded. The presence of a tennis court at Etta James's house is consistent with the architectural and lifestyle trends of the time.

Overall, the tennis court at Etta James's house is a notable feature that provides insights into her lifestyle, social activities, and the historical and cultural context of the property.

8. Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument

The designation of Etta James's house as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument is a significant recognition of its historical and cultural value. This designation is bestowed upon buildings, structures, and sites that are deemed to have exceptional historical, cultural, or architectural significance to the city of Los Angeles.

The process of designating a property as a Historic-Cultural Monument involves a rigorous evaluation by the Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission, which considers factors such as the property's age, historical associations, architectural significance, and cultural value. The designation provides legal protection to the property, ensuring that it cannot be demolished or significantly altered without the approval of the Cultural Heritage Commission.

In the case of Etta James's house, the designation as a Historic-Cultural Monument is a testament to its importance as a cultural landmark and a reminder of Etta James's legacy as a legendary musician. The designation also helps to preserve the architectural heritage of the Crenshaw district, a historically African American neighborhood that has undergone significant change in recent years.

The connection between "Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument" and "Etta James's house" is significant because it highlights the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. Historic-Cultural Monuments are a reminder of our past and help us to connect with the people and events that have shaped our history. Etta James's house is a Historic-Cultural Monument that is associated with a legendary musician and is a symbol of the cultural history of Los Angeles. The designation of Etta James's house as a Historic-Cultural Monument is a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from the contributions of the past.

FAQs about Etta James's House


This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about Etta James's house, offering insights into its historical and cultural significance.

Question 1: Why is Etta James's house considered a historical landmark?


Etta James's house is considered a historical landmark due to its association with the legendary singer Etta James, who lived there for over 50 years. The house is also recognized for its architectural significance as a well-preserved example of Spanish-style architecture, popular in Los Angeles in the early 20th century.

Question 2: What architectural features are notable in Etta James's house?


Etta James's house is characterized by its white stucco walls, red tile roof, arched doorways and windows, and a spacious floor plan with four bedrooms and three bathrooms. These features are typical of Spanish-style architecture, which combines elements of Spanish Colonial and Mission Revival styles.

Question 3: How did Etta James's house reflect her lifestyle?


Etta James's house reflects her success and comfortable lifestyle as a renowned musician. The spacious layout, including a swimming pool and tennis court, suggests that she enjoyed spending time at home and entertaining guests. The house also showcases her appreciation for architectural aesthetics and her desire for a luxurious living environment.

Question 4: What is the cultural significance of Etta James's house?


Etta James's house holds cultural significance as a symbol of African American achievement and the cultural history of the Crenshaw district in Los Angeles. Her presence in the neighborhood and her contributions to American music made her house a cultural landmark that represents the rich legacy of African American artists and the community's vibrant history.

Question 5: How is Etta James's house preserved and protected?


Etta James's house is designated as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, which provides legal protection against demolition or significant alteration. The designation also ensures that any future changes to the property are reviewed and approved by the Cultural Heritage Commission to maintain the house's historical integrity.


In conclusion, Etta James's house is a significant historical landmark that embodies architectural beauty, reflects her personal style, and holds cultural importance. Its preservation ensures that future generations can appreciate its legacy and the contributions of Etta James to American music and culture.


Transition to the next article section:

Etta James's House

Etta James's house stands as a testament to her extraordinary life and career. It is a historical landmark that embodies architectural beauty, reflects her personal style, and holds cultural significance. Through its preservation, we honor her legacy and celebrate the contributions of African American artists to American music and culture.

The house's Spanish-style architecture, spacious layout, and amenities such as a swimming pool and tennis court offer a glimpse into Etta James's lifestyle and her appreciation for comfort and luxury. Its designation as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument ensures its protection for future generations, allowing them to appreciate its historical and cultural value.

Etta James's house is more than just a building; it is a symbol of her spirit and her enduring impact on the world. It is a reminder of the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect people across generations. As we continue to celebrate her legacy, let us also work to preserve the cultural landmarks that tell the stories of our past and inspire us to create a better future.

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