Did Bessie Smith write any songs?

Did Bessie Smith write any songs?

Though her recording career was short—only 14 years—she recorded close to 200 songs, some written herself, and many of them with the accompaniment of some of the best musicians in the business. Some of her sidemen over the years included: Louis Armstrong, Joe Smith, Don Redman, James P.

How many songs did Bessie Smith release?

Bessie Smith was one of the greatest blues vocalists ever. She made 160 recordings in all, in many of which she was accompanied by some of the great jazz musicians of the 1920s and ’30s, including Fletcher Henderson, Benny Goodman, and Louis Armstrong.

What was Bessie Smith best selling song?

Downhearted Blues
Bessie Smith’s most popular song is “Downhearted Blues”, released in 1923, which peaked at #1 on the charts created by Joel Whitburn.

Why did Bessie sing?

Due to her parents’ death and her poverty, Bessie experienced a “wretched childhood”. To earn money for their impoverished household, Bessie and her brother Andrew busked on the streets of Chattanooga. She sang and danced as he played the guitar.

Is Bessie short for something?

Bessie is a feminine given name, often a diminutive form (hypocorism) of Elizabeth, Beatrice and other names since the 16th century.

Does Viola Davis do her own singing in Ma raineys Black Bottom?

For the most part, no, but you do her Davis singing in one instance. According to the Los Angeles Times, the actress sings for one song, while the rest of the vocals for Ma Rainey are provided by another artist. During a scene when Ma Rainey sings “These Dogs of Mine,” you’re hearing Davis.

Is Bessie a boy or girl?

What is the English meaning of Bessie?

The name Bessie is primarily a female name of English origin that means God Is My Oath. diminutive form of Elizabeth.

What was the first song that Bessie Smith recorded?

Both sides of her first record, ” Downhearted Blues ” backed with “Gulf Coast Blues”, were hits (an earlier recording of “Downhearted Blues” by its co-writer Alberta Hunter had previously been released by Paramount Records ).

When did Bessie Smith join the Blues Band?

In 1912, Bessie’s brother Clarence invited her to join him as a member of a musical troupe. New opportunities seemed to pop up each time Bessie performed. The famous blues singer Ma Rainey heard Bessie sing and invited Bessie to join her on the road.

How old was Bessie Smith when she died?

Alternative Title: Elizabeth Smith. Bessie Smith, in full Elizabeth Smith, (born April 15, 1898?, Chattanooga, Tennessee, U.S.—died September 26, 1937, Clarksdale, Mississippi), American singer, one of the greatest blues vocalists.

Who are some famous people that played with Bessie Smith?

Bessie Smith was one of the greatest blues vocalists ever. She made 160 recordings in all, in many of which she was accompanied by some of the great jazz musicians of the 1920s and ’30s, including Fletcher Henderson, Benny Goodman, and Louis Armstrong.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stbYnwYKDpY