Soundtrack To The Struggle: Queens of the Blues

Three pioneering women lay claim to Blues royalty. Mamie Smith, Ma Rainey, and Bessie Smith made an impact on American culture that still resonates today. In 1920, Mamie Smith became the first Black musician to make vocal blues recordings. A savvy marketer, she exploited the new medium of radio to reach audiences across the country … Continue reading

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United States , American , Billie Holiday , Ma Rainey , Aretha Franklin , Hollis Monroe , Bessie Smith , Aron Adkins , Bob Dylan , George Dorman , Janis Joplin , Mamie Smith , , Roll Hall , Executive Producers Dennis Green ,