Bessie Smith

The "Empress of the Blues," Bessie Smith dominated the blues scene during the Jazz Age.

Chronology: 1892-04-15 – 1937-09-26

Humble Beginnings in the South

Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Bessie Smith faced early hardship after the death of her parents. She and her siblings initially survived by performing on street corners, laying the foundation for her later career as a renowned blues singer.

Ascension to Blues Royalty

Smith's professional journey gained momentum with her successful recording career starting in 1923 with Columbia Records. She became the most popular female blues singer of the 1930s, earning her the nicknames "Empress of the Blues" and "Queen of the Blues."

Enduring Influence and Legacy

Though her performing career was tragically cut short by a car crash at the age of 45, Bessie Smith's influence remains profound. She is regarded as one of the greatest singers of her era, significantly impacting both blues singers and jazz vocalists, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989.

Source: Wikipedia