Check out these new and used Bessie Smith Bessie Smith vinyl records LPs for sale. Bessie Smith, a.k.a. Empress of the Blues, was one of the most well-known blues singers from 1925-1940 and a large influence on other singers from that era. She grew up in poverty and was discovered in 1919 by another great blues vocalist named Ma Rainey. Bessie recorded her first album in 1923 which included the hit Down Hearted Blues which sold over 2 million copies. She played with some of the most important musicians of the time including Benny Goodman and Louis Armstrong, and her music often covered topics such as poverty, oppression, and unrequited love. We recommend the essential album In Hi-Fi: The Legend of Bessie Smith. Our inventory is constantly changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl from blues musicians.
Very Best Of (180gm Vinyl)
7% OffEmpress Of The Blues 1923-33
11% OffStory
Sings Bessie Smith
33% OffBessie Smith - Empty Bed Blues - Lp Vinyl Record
$33.99 (as of March 22, 2024 20:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Bessie Smith - Giants Of Jazz: Bessie Smith - Time Life Records - STL-J28 NM/NM 3LP
$24.23 (as of March 22, 2024 20:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Bessie Smith: The Worlds Greatest Blues Singer (2 Record Set Bio Booklet Enclosed)
$13.59 (as of March 22, 2024 20:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Bessie Smith - Any Woman's Blues - Lp Vinyl Record
$7.99 (as of March 22, 2024 20:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Down Hearted Blues [VINYL]
$34.52 (as of March 22, 2024 20:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Bessie Smith - Empress Of The Blues - Giants Of Jazz - LPJT 36
$149.00 (as of March 22, 2024 20:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Bessie Smith: Empress of the Blues
Bessie Smith, born on April 15, 1894, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, was a towering figure in the history of American music. She is often referred to as the “Empress of the Blues” and remains an iconic figure in the world of blues and jazz. Bessie Smith’s remarkable talent, commanding presence, and poignant lyrics left an indelible mark on the music landscape and a lasting legacy that continues to resonate today.
Early Life and Beginnings
Bessie Smith’s early life was marked by the hardships of growing up in the South during the era of segregation. She came from a large, impoverished family and began her singing career as a child, performing on the streets of Chattanooga. Her exceptional voice and natural talent caught the attention of traveling minstrel shows, and she soon joined the Moses Stokes Company, which provided her first opportunity to perform on stage.
Recording Career and Breakthrough
Bessie Smith’s recording career began in the 1920s when she signed with Columbia Records. Her very first recording, “Downhearted Blues” (1923), became a monumental success, selling over 800,000 copies in its first six months. This recording marked the beginning of a prolific career in which she became one of the most influential vocalists of her time.
The Empress of the Blues
Bessie Smith’s nickname, the “Empress of the Blues,” was not merely a title but a testament to her unmatched vocal abilities and stage presence. Her voice was powerful, emotional, and full of raw intensity. Smith’s commanding performances earned her a devoted following and a place of reverence in the blues world.
Signature Songs and Lyrics
Smith’s extensive discography includes many enduring classics, such as “St. Louis Blues,” “Backwater Blues,” and “Nobody Knows You When You’re Down and Out.” Her songs often delved into themes of heartbreak, hardship, and resilience. Her ability to convey deep emotions through her music resonated with a broad audience, making her a voice for the marginalized and dispossessed.
Influence and Impact
Bessie Smith’s influence on the world of music is immeasurable. Her expressive, soulful singing style paved the way for generations of vocalists who followed. She was a trailblazer who transcended the constraints of her era, breaking down racial barriers in the music industry. Her recordings were not only popular in the African American community but also found a broad and diverse audience.
Collaborations and Connections
Smith’s collaborations with influential artists of her time added to her stature. She worked with renowned musicians like Louis Armstrong and Benny Goodman, and her contributions to jazz and blues played a pivotal role in shaping the development of these genres.
Decline and Resurgence
The advent of the Great Depression marked a decline in the popularity of the blues, and Bessie Smith’s career faced challenges during this period. However, she made a brief but successful comeback in the 1930s, recording new material and performing in venues across the United States.
Tragic End and Legacy
Bessie Smith’s life was tragically cut short in a car accident on September 26, 1937. Her death at the age of 43 marked the loss of a truly singular talent. Her influence, however, lived on. Smith’s music continued to inspire artists in subsequent generations, from Janis Joplin and Aretha Franklin to contemporary blues and jazz vocalists. Her legacy is celebrated for her groundbreaking contributions to American music and her pioneering spirit.
Conclusion
Bessie Smith’s legacy as the “Empress of the Blues” endures as a testament to her incredible vocal talent, her powerful storytelling, and her trailblazing impact on the world of music. She overcame adversity and became a towering figure in the history of American music, leaving an indelible mark on the blues and jazz genres. Her influence continues to inspire and resonate with musicians and music enthusiasts across the globe, ensuring that the Empress of the Blues will reign eternally in the hearts of those who appreciate her timeless artistry.
Legend of Bessie smith. VG+/VG. Mono.
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BESSIS SMITH THE BESSIE SMITH STORY - 180 GRAM 2 LP SET " NEW, SEALED "
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prewar blues BESSIE SMITH Jail-House Blues COLUMBIA 4001 HEAR graveyard dream
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In Hi-Fi-The legend of Bessie Smith. Mono
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Bessie Smith on COL A3888
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Bessie Smith / At The Christmas Ball / Red Vinyl 45 / LTD Edition / Mint!
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prewar blues BESSIE SMITH It Makes My Love Come Down COLUMBIA 14464 HEAR
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Bessie Smith: Sam Jones Blues/St. Louis Gal; Columbia 13005D, 10" 78; Worn
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Lucky Lady Soundtrack 1976 Liza Minnelli Bessie Smith Vinyl LP New Sealed
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Bessie Smith - The Empress ~ (2 LP Set) ~ 1971 Columbia ~ VG
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BLUES BESSIE SMITH 2x Col 3844 &3888 Gulf Coast Blues & Oh Daddy V+ V
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Columbia 78 RPM Bessie Smith & Fletcher Henderson - Lady Luck Blues A3939 V-
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Bessie Smith - Empress Of The Blues 1923-33 [New Vinyl LP] 140 Gram Vinyl
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Bessie Smith Sorrowful Rocking Chair Blues Rare 78 Austin Texas Dealer Sticker
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Bessie Smith – Salt Water Blues / Rainy Weather Blues 10", 78 RPM 1924 Columbia
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RONNIE GILBERT - LEGEND OF BESSIE SMITH - Vinyl LP Record Album
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Hot Jazz Classics BESSIE SMITH 4 Record Set Columbia C-31 E+
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Bessie Smith "...Story-Volume III 3" 1956 Blues LP, VG+, Original Columbia 6-eye
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Amina Claudine Myers "...Salutes Bessie Smith" LP Leo 103 UK SEALED AUTOGRAPHED
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1986 Dinah Washington “The Bessie Smith Songbook” Mercury 826 663-1 LP (Sealed)
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eternal sunshine[Ruby LP] [Alt Cover]
1989 (Taylor's Version)[2 LP]
Rumours
8% OffTHE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT [Ghosted White 2 LP]
$45.99 (as of March 26, 2024 11:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Ultimate Sinatra [2 LP]
5% OffThe Sound Of Music (Original Soundtrack Recording)[Deluxe Edition] [3 LP]
12% OffDoo-Wops & Hooligans (Amazon Exclusive)
$24.98 (as of March 26, 2024 11:56 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Turn It On Again: The Hits (Amazon Exclusive Clear Vinyl)
$34.98 (as of March 26, 2024 10:33 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)An Evening With Silk Sonic (Amazon Exclusive Gold with White and Apple Red Splatter Vinyl)
$24.98 (as of March 26, 2024 10:33 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)nadie sabe lo que va a pasar manana
$34.99 (as of March 26, 2024 10:33 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)