Eartha Kitt, born on January 17, 1927, in South Carolina, was known for her unique and exotic accent. While her birthplace might not suggest her distinctive way of speaking, her accent was a result of various influences and experiences throughout her life.

1. Mixed-Race Heritage: Eartha Kitt's mother was of African-American and Cherokee ancestry [3]. It is believed that her mixed-race lineage contributed to the unique qualities of her accent.

2. Early Life and Dance Career: Kitt joined the Katherine Dunham Dance Company in 1943 and performed with them for five years [3]. During her time with the company, she traveled to London and Paris, where she had her first solo cabaret show [2]. These experiences likely exposed her to different cultures and languages, which could have influenced her accent.

3. Parisian Influence: Kitt's breakthrough in her career came when she was spotted by Orson Welles in Paris and cast in his production of "Dr. Faustus" [2]. Her success in Paris, a city known for its diverse and international atmosphere, may have further shaped her accent.

4. Broadway and Recording Career: Kitt's success on Broadway and in the recording industry showcased her unique voice and accent. Her recordings, such as "Uska Dara" and "C'est Si Bon," incorporated foreign languages and melodies [3]. Her distinctive pronunciation of vowels and consonants, which nobody else on earth seemed to replicate, added to the allure of her voice [2].

5. Personal Style and Persona: Eartha Kitt cultivated an image that was exotic, sophisticated, and alluring [2]. Her accent, with its blend of British, Caribbean, and Middle-Eastern influences, added to her mystique and made her performances captivating.

Learn more:

1. STILL STRETCHING - Chicago Tribune
2. Eartha Kitt: That Voice - (Travalanche)
3. Music Memories: Eartha Kitt | Los Angeles Public Library