Bessie Smith
The Empress of Blues
All About Elizabeth ¨Bessie¨ Smith
Elizabeth Smith, better known as Bessie, was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee on April 15th, 1894. Orphaned at a young age, she was raised by her older siblings. For money, she would sing and dance on the streets. At the age of 18, Bessie joined a traveling vaudeville troupe. She started her performing days as a dancer. Then, her she realized she could do more then just dance. As her love for singing increased, so did her fame. She signed record deals, performed on many stages, and eventually, became the richest African-American woman ever.
Slowing to a Stop
Bessie Smith had a off-and-on marriage life and a problem with alcohol. Her personal life soon got mixed up with her business life, and her performing slowed down. She still signed record deals and sang, but she died from a car crash before she could record her last album.
Bessie Smith's Impact
But, it wasn't just the women population she wowed. Everyone loved Bessie and looked up to her. She was even put on postage stamps!
Bessie Smith's Career
Songs by Bessie Smith
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Downhearted_Blues
Other songs by Bessie Smith include:
¨I Ain't Got Nobody.¨
¨St. Louis Blues.¨
¨Gimme a Pigfoot.¨
¨After You've Gone.¨
¨Baby Won't You Please Come Home.¨
Plus so many more!
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Scroll down until you see the section ¨Live Performances.¨ Click the play button to listen to a clip.