February 18: Bessie Smith: Jazz’s First Superstar
A Daily Journey Through Black History Month
Story
On February 21, 1901, Bessie Smith, the “Empress of the Blues,” was born. With her powerful voice and commanding stage presence, Smith became one of the highest-paid African American entertainers of her time, influencing both blues and jazz with songs like Downhearted Blues.
Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Smith faced hardship early in life, losing both parents at a young age. She and her siblings survived by performing on the streets, where her natural vocal power and charisma first caught attention. She later joined traveling vaudeville shows, refining her craft under the mentorship of Ma Rainey.
In 1923, Smith recorded Downhearted Blues, which became an instant success, selling hundreds of thousands of copies and launching her to national fame. Her ability to express deep sorrow and resilience resonated with Black audiences experiencing the hardships of segregation and the Great Depression. She worked with top musicians, including Louis Armstrong, and her recordings helped bridge the gap between blues and early jazz.
Despite a tragic early death in 1937, Bessie Smith’s influence can be heard in generations of vocalists, from Billie Holiday to Janis Joplin, ensuring her legacy as one of the greatest voices in American music history.
Key Quotes
- “The greatest blues singer in the world will never stop singing.”
- “I’ve been in the storm so long.”
Cultural Significance
- Crossover Influence: Bessie Smith’s recordings bridged blues and jazz, shaping American popular music.
- Trailblazer: She broke barriers for Black women in the entertainment industry during the 1920s.
Fun Fact
Smith’s recording of Downhearted Blues sold over 800,000 copies in its first year, a record for its time.
Trivia Challenge
Question: What was Bessie Smith’s nickname?
(A) The Queen of Jazz • (B) The Empress of the Blues • (C) The Voice of the Blues • (D) The Lady of Swing
Multimedia
• Watch: Bessie (2015) – An HBO biopic starring Queen Latifah, chronicling Bessie Smith’s rise to fame and struggles in the music industry. (Available on HBO Max and digital platforms.)
• View: Bessie Smith // St. Louis Blues (1929)
• Read: Bessie by Chris Albertson – A definitive biography exploring Bessie Smith’s life, career, and impact on blues and jazz history. (Available on Amazon and major bookstores.)
February 17’s Trivia Answer: (B) Take My Hand, Precious Lord was Thomas A. Dorsey’s most famous gospel composition.
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Pure power!
my answer is (B) The Empress of the Blues.