Ma Rainey

  Last weekend, HBO debuted, Bessie a new biographical drama focused on the life of blues legend Bessie Smith, starring Queen Latifah in the title role. While much of the film detailed Smith’s rise to becoming the “Empress of the Blues,” it also highlighted an important mentor – the “Mother of the Blues,” Ma Rainey played […]

  Blues legend Ma Rainey was bestowed with the title of “Mother Of The Blues,” as she was largely responsible for bringing the genre to prominence during the early 20th century. The Columbus, Ga. native was an influence on future Blues singers and other great creative minds such as Alice Walker and Langston Hughes. Born […]