Blu Cava

Betty Lou ("Blu") Harriette Cava (nee Carlson)
Blu passed away peacefully on February 22, 2016.  A San Diego legend and local entertainer for many years through the 1950's, 60's 70's and 80's, Blu's vocal style was unique, emotive and unequaled.  She had a loyal following through the decades performing in the local San Diego area at famous venues including the Hideaway Club in Hillcrest, Mission Valley Inn, Tops, Guys and Dolls, as well as other hot spots.
Blu was born Betty Lou Harriette Carlson on December 8th, 1925, in Ray, North Dakota, one of six siblings of frontier, homesteading Scandinavian parents.  Her natural talent became evident early in her life, winning local talent contests beginning at age five and ending her time in North Dakota as Ray High School's star majorette.
Departing from Ray to San Diego in 1941 - the day after Pearl Harbor - were Blu's mother Selma with Blu and her younger brother in tow. Entering San Diego High School, she quickly established herself as an exceptional student and vocal artist. As a big band vocalist with the USO, she could be seen singing to the troops as they were deployed from San Diego to the various theaters of WWII, and welcoming them home to the standards they longed to hear.
Her career as a singer became fully formed soon after High School graduation. She served as her own booking agent and played with big bands throughout the West and Northwest, settling for a while in San Francisco, CA as her base.
Blu fell in love, married and had a son, Jeffrey, in San Francisco in 1951. Her life's journey took her and Jeffrey back to San Diego where she spent the next 60 years raising her son, singing with top bands, and eventually becoming a successful realtor for over 35 years. There are few people who are truly American Originals, but Blu Cava satisfied all the requirements and then some. In spite of her talents and career opportunities, Blu's first commitment and obligation was to her son Jeffrey, providing strong values and unconditional love to him.
She is survived by her son Jeffrey, his partner Angie, dear nephews and nieces, and many loyal friends. A Memorial Celebration is being planned for the end of March with details to follow.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish, may make a donation to the Blu Cava Memorial Scholarship Fund at San Diego State University’s School of Music and Dance. Contributions payable to The Campanile Foundation, can be sent to 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego CA 92182-1968 (please note the Scholarship name on your check). Donations can also be made online at campaign.sdsu.edu/BluCava.