Questions and Answers
Who was the 'Mother of the Blues'?
Gertrude 'Ma' Rainey
Who was considered the 'Father of the Blues'?
W.C. Handy
Who was the 'Empress of the Blues'?
Bessie Smith
Who was the first to record 'classic' blues?
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Who was the first 'Country Blues Recording Star'?
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Who allegedly sold his soul to the devil to play the blues?
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Which Country Blues musician/singer had the greatest influence on subsequent Blues and Rock artists?
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Classic Blues tends to occur in urban areas and have female singers, while Country Blues tends to be ___ and male.
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Dockery Farms is known as the birthplace of blues in ___.
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Study Notes
Mother of the Blues
- Gertrude "Ma" Rainey, began performing at age 12 in Minstrelsy shows.
- Renowned for powerful vocals, energetic style, and moaning singing technique.
- Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1990; first recordings in 1923.
- Influenced Bessie Smith, who learned from her and emulated her vocal style.
- Recorded approximately 100 songs, including "Booze and Blues" and "See See Rider Blues."
Father of the Blues
- W.C. Handy, published first blues songs in 1912, including "Memphis Blues" and "St. Louis Blues."
- Played a crucial role in popularizing blues as a national genre.
- Credited for giving blues its contemporary form despite not being the first to publish.
Empress of the Blues
- Bessie Smith, recorded first in 1923 with a distinctive powerful voice.
- Known for her bold attitude and songs like "Downhearted Blues."
- Inducted into the Rock Hall of Fame in 1989.
First Classic Blues Recording
- Mamie Smith known for "Crazy Blues," recognized as the first to record classic blues.
First Country Blues Recording Star
- Blind Lemon Jefferson, a Texas singer and guitarist, called the "Father of Texas Blues."
- Notable for high-pitched voice and unique guitar style, emphasizing single notes and artistic originality.
- Influence recognized later by musicians like BB King and Robert Johnson.
- Experienced financial exploitation, receiving no profits from his recordings.
Alleged Soul Selling for Musical Talent
- Robert Johnson, mysterious figure known for concealing his guitar technique while performing.
- Released only 11 records during his lifetime and died from poisoning.
- Famous songs include "Kind Hearted Woman," "Crossroads," and "Sweet Home Chicago."
Influence on Subsequent Artists
- Robert Johnson had a significant impact on future blues and rock musicians, admired by members of The Rolling Stones and Cream.
- Little is documented about his early life or the folklore surrounding his supposed pact with the devil.
Differences Between Country and Classic Blues
- Classic Blues emerged in urban settings with female singers accompanied by small jazz ensembles; first to be recorded and labeled as "Race Records."
- Country Blues developed in rural areas, typically performed by men playing guitar; representative of a nomadic lifestyle.
Importance of Dockery Farms
- Dockery Farms in Mississippi is recognized as the birthplace of blues music.
- Owned by Charley Patton, an influential early delta blues musician from 1891 to 1934.
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Description
Test your knowledge about the legendary Gertrude 'Ma' Rainey, known as the 'Mother of the Blues'. This quiz explores her influence on blues music and her iconic vocal style. Perfect for music enthusiasts and students of the genre.
