Dorothy Barton was the second wife of the legendary rock and roll musician, Jerry Lee Lewis. The two were married in 1952 and remained together until their divorce in 1957. Their marriage was one of controversy and scandal, with many people criticizing Lewis for marrying his cousin's ex-wife.
The Early Years
Jerry Lee Lewis was born in Ferriday, Louisiana on September 29, 1935. He was the last of seven children and grew up in a musical family. His parents were both musicians and Jerry Lee began playing the piano at a young age.
He developed a love for rock and roll and began playing in local clubs and bars. His unique style of playing, which included pounding on the keys and using his feet to control the pedals, quickly gained him popularity.
The Marriage
Dorothy Barton was a model and dancer when she met Jerry Lee Lewis in 1952. Despite the fact that she was still married to Lewis's cousin, they began a relationship and were married later that year.
Their marriage was met with much controversy, especially after it was revealed that Barton was still legally married to Lewis's cousin. Many people criticized Lewis for marrying his cousin's ex-wife and the scandal led to a decline in his popularity and record sales.
The Scandal
In 1958, Lewis's career suffered a major setback when it was revealed that he had married his 13-year-old cousin, Myra Gale Brown. The scandal caused outrage among the public and radio stations stopped playing his music.
Despite the controversy, Lewis continued to perform and record music. His career eventually rebounded and he continued to be an influential figure in rock and roll throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
The Divorce
After five years of marriage, Dorothy Barton and Jerry Lee Lewis divorced in 1957. The reasons for their divorce are unclear, but it is believed that Lewis's infidelity played a role in their separation.
Barton went on to marry twice more and had two children. She passed away in 2010 at the age of 77.
The Legacy
Jerry Lee Lewis is considered one of the pioneers of rock and roll and his music continues to influence musicians today. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has received numerous awards for his contributions to music.
Despite the controversies and scandals that surrounded his personal life, his music remains timeless and continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.
Conclusion
Dorothy Barton Jerry Lee Lewis's marriage was one of controversy and scandal, but it was also a significant period in the life of one of rock and roll's most iconic figures. Their relationship and subsequent divorce were just one chapter in a long and storied career that has left an indelible mark on music history.