Ma Rainey, the "Mother of Blues"
Why was Ma Rainey so influential?
Ma Rainey’s music was influential because she was one of the first female Blues artists to discuss women’s sexuality and personal life. Ma Rainey’s music explored topics that dealt with the pain, pleasure, romance, anger, etc. of Black women. Rainey’s songs reached bisexual audiences, as she herself was openly bisexual and sang lyrics that told stories of her experiences with other women. Ma Rainey’s approach to Blues was unconventional to many, but also appreciated for its authenticity. Her style of music was also influential for combining the traditions of vaudeville and authentic Southern blues.
Women like Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, and Mamie Smith presented real stories and feelings through their songs without shame and need to cater to White audiences- unlike ragtime music. Ma Rainey’s performances reflected awareness of the Black body and consciousness, as she often used her body to create sexual motions, thus making her music have more of a sex appeal. Ma Rainey’s music was overall relatable for Black people. As upcoming Black artist paved their way into the industry, Ma Rainey suggested an emphasis the exploration of one’s true self.
Jubilee Quartets: The Road to Representation
What is a Jubilee Quartet? The word “Jubilee” of “Jubilee Quartet” derives from the biblical phrase, “Year of the Jubilee” where African American enslaved people
The Blues-The Exploration of the Black Woman with Ma Rainey
Ma Rainey 1886-1939 Ma Rainey, the “Mother of Blues” Ma Rainey was a Blues singer who was active from the years 1899-1939. She was a
Negro Spirituals : The Effect on African American Faith and Perseverance
Negro Spirituals were songs that were sang firstly by enslaved individuals. These songs were used to amplify the voices of the marginalized while bringing faith
A Look Into Ragtime
Ragtime was originally known as “ragging,” before it got its name. Due to this, the music was thought of as a genre in “ragged time.”
Ari Lennox
by Avane Ervin Courtney Shanade Salter“Ari Lennox” Courtney Shanade Salter also known as “Ari Lennox” is an American lyricist, singer, songwriter, and social media influencer.
Artist Paper Sources
Avane Ervin Artist Paper Sources- Ari Lennox “Ari Lennox: Biography & History.” AllMusic, www.allmusic.com/artist/ari-lennox-mn0003462621/biography. Hyman, Dan. “Ari Lennox Is Anxious To Drop Her Debut:
