Lena Martell, the Scottish singer and television presenter who achieved notable success with her 1979 hit “One Day at a Time,” has died at the age of 86, her family announced on October 5, 2026. Martell’s career spanned several decades and continents, encompassing performances in dance halls, cabaret venues, and television studios from Scotland to London, Las Vegas, Australia, and beyond.

Born Helena Thomson on May 15, 1940, in Glasgow’s Hamiltonhill area, Martell developed an early interest in music and performance. She began singing with her brother Allan in a Dixieland band and later performed at notable venues such as the Barrowland ballroom. After moving to London, she became a cabaret star and appeared on various television shows. Her professional stage name was reportedly inspired by a brandy bottle held up by an audience member during one of her early performances.

Martell recorded a number of albums between the mid-1970s and 1980, and while she is primarily remembered in the UK for “One Day at a Time,” the song’s success was significant. Released initially without impact, it was re-promoted in 1979 and rose to number one on the UK singles chart for three weeks, ahead of artists including Michael Jackson and Abba. The song, written by Marijohn Wilkin and Kris Kristofferson, sold 2.5 million copies worldwide and made Martell the first Scottish solo female singer to top the British singles chart.

Alongside her recording work, Martell hosted several television shows, including *Presenting Lena Martell* (1971-73), *Music with Martell* (1974), *Make the Music Speak* (1977), and *Lena’s Music* (1979). These programs often featured prominent entertainers of the era and attracted broad audiences, cementing her place in British popular culture.

Her career encountered challenges including health issues such as breast cancer and a triple heart bypass surgery in 2008. In addition, she faced personal losses, including the deaths of her brother and partner, and financial difficulties that led to bankruptcy in 1992 following a failed business venture. Despite these setbacks, Martell continued performing into her seventies.

Martell’s repertoire extended beyond her signature hit, as she recorded more than 30 albums featuring a range of cover songs and original material, supported by her rich contralto voice. She performed alongside notable figures such as Sammy Davis Jr. and was widely praised for her charm and stage presence.

She is survived by those close to her, though she spent her final days in a care home after the passing of her partner, David. Martell’s legacy remains that of a versatile and enduring performer who left a mark on the British entertainment scene.