Black entertainers

  The practice of using “Blackface” makeup in the American minstrel theater tradition of the 19th Century persisted well into the 1900s. White actors applying burnt cork, then grease and black shoe polish, donned the makeup and wore woolly wigs while depicting racist stereotypes. While every race was mocked satirically at the time, none were […]

Uh oh! Who does Tiny think she is throwing up the Greek signs of the Deltas and the AKAs? Is the lil lady tryin’ to start somethin’?! Tameka “Tiny” Harris  was photographed throwing up both signs with AKAs and Deltas who didn’t seem to mind. But those who are not in the photo might not […]

Bill “Bojangles” Robinson was a standout tap dancer, actor and performer, and the best-known and highest-paid Black entertainer for much of the early half of the 20th Century. Mr. Robinson’s iconic legacy has remained intact, and this native son of Richmond, Va. has gone on to inspire other greats over the years. Born May 25, […]

Ethel Waters was a pioneering singer, actress and entertainer that endured several hardships along with measurable successes. According to some historical accounts, Ms. Waters is the first Black woman nominated for an Emmy Award and the first to star on network television. Born October 31, 1896 in Chester, Pennsylvania., Waters was born into poverty under […]

Singer and entertainer Joyce Bryant may not be a household name, but her contributions to the entertainment world are noteworthy just the same. The retired vocalist and vocal coach is regarded by some to be the first dark-skinned sex symbol, earning her the nickname “Black Marilyn Monroe.” Bryant was born in Oakland, Calif. on October […]