Bessie Smith

Air Date:
Heard On The Odyssey Series

The first major blues and jazz singer on record and one of the most powerful of all time, Bessie Smith even on her first records in 1923, demonstrates her passionate interpretations that overcame the quality challenges of early recordings of the day.

Born in 1894 in Chattanooga, Tennessee in the United State, Bessie Smith, celebrated as “The Empress Of The Blues”, would arguably become the most popular woman in blues for two decades – the 1920’s and 30’s. Her career began singing on the streets of Chattanooga with her brother Andrew. Back then they called it “busking” – meaning performing in public places for gratuities such as food, drink or gifts and not much money.

Episode Credits

  • Dr. Jonathan Øverby Host
  • Joe Hardtke Technical Director