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Bessie Smith: Celebrating the Empress of the Blues on Her Birthday

April 15, 2016 - Happy Birthday to Bessie Smith, the “Empress of the Blues.” Widely regarded as the greatest female blues singer of her era, she was born around 1894 in Chattanooga, Tennessee's Blue Goose Hollow—now the intersection of MLK Blvd and Riverfront Parkway.

Smith launched her career busking on Chattanooga street corners, honing her skills on the vibrant East Ninth Street scene, known as the Big Nine, a hotspot for blues and jazz performers. Today, East Ninth Street is MLK Blvd.

Her breakthrough came touring with Ma Rainey, propelling her to become the highest-paid Black entertainer of her time. She recorded timeless tracks with blues giants like Fletcher Henderson, James P. Johnson, Coleman Hawkins, Louis Armstrong, and Benny Goodman.

Amid profound challenges for Black women, Smith forged an indelible legacy in music.

To honor her birthday, enjoy this special playlist of her iconic songs and celebrate her enduring influence all day.

Bessie Smith: Celebrating the Empress of the Blues on Her Birthday
A Special Playlist:
Happy Birthday to Bessie Smith

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