Vocally women have always dominated the jazz scene. Instrumentally however, jazz has been overpoweringly male. Before the 1920’s most music was performed almost entirely by men. Through their recordings, the popularity of artists such as Bessie Smith, Ma Rainey, and Lil’Hardin encouraged many women to go for careers in the music industry.
Gertrude “Ma” Rainey “recorded with some of the finest jazz musicians of her day, including Louis Armstrong and Coleman Hawkins” (Gioia, 2011, p.16). To many she is referred to as the “Mother of Blues.” It is also speculated that she trained Bessie Smith during their minstrel tour together.
Gertrude “Ma” Rainey “recorded with some of the finest jazz musicians of her day, including Louis Armstrong and Coleman Hawkins” (Gioia, 2011, p.16). To many she is referred to as the “Mother of Blues.” It is also speculated that she trained Bessie Smith during their minstrel tour together.