Chattanooga, Tennessee (April 15, 1894 -September 26, 1937) age 43 yrs

Bessie Smith, known as the “empress of the blues,” reigned in the 1920’s across the United States and Europe. Her expansive range brought blues music to new audiences of all backgrounds. She made over a hundred recordings. These included both blues and popular songs. She paved the way for future blues singers and jazz musicians.