Who is Gladys Bentley?

Blues was a prominent musical genre in the early 1900s. African Americans are indeed the creators. This type of music introduced the “feeling” style. Folk music of this kind is frequently performed verbally or with a piano. The flow of the guitar and rhythmic methods like syncopation are what distinguish the blues as a distinct musical style. It stems from a meaningful scale and is solely utilized for melodies. Artists would combine the scales at the same time to produce such sounds and create “clashes.” This sound is well-known since it represents the blues aspect of music.

Introducing Gladys Bently: Born in 1907, a fantastic blues artist, pianist, vocalist, and more, this woman is a highlight of the 20th century.

https://youtu.be/j-LTJNasTMchttps://youtu.be/ptIBk2PZK74
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About Her…

Gladys Bentley, also known by her stage name Bobbie Minton, was a cross-dressing, lesbian, African American, and Harlem Renaissance blues musician. Her appearance embodies the time when being fearless and authentic was the norm. Despite negative responses to what Bentley did, she went on to become one of the most prosperous and well-known women in the 1920s.

As she developed as a person over the years, she even displayed her love for ladies by showing off her cross-dressing at performances. She was a trailblazer who encouraged people to be themselves and the center of attention even when others didn’t agree. Her actions made it clear that it is OK to talk about one’s sexual orientation, race, and gender.

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Bentley initially began her profession by performing in minor roles at events and buffet flats. She relocated to Jungle Alley, the hub of Harlem’s sporting life, where speakeasies and nightclubs are located. Between 1928 and 1929, Okeh Race Records issued eight singles featuring her music. The following year, she started hosting her weekly radio show. By 1933, Bentley was the featured performer in theaters and nightclubs, including The Cotton Club and The Apollo. Eight male dancers dressed as women performed in a chorus for her musical revue, which was the main event at the renowned Ubangi Club from 1934 until 1937.

Gladys Bentley created the impression that she could accomplish everything she set her mind to. Bentley utilized that image to reassure others that they are not alone by having the courage to openly express her sexuality and put an end to the discrimination that was occurring at the time. She appeared as a male yet spoke as a lady, appealing to all genders. establishing a secure environment for members of the LGBTQ community. Her growling, husky voice emphasized the distinctiveness and novelty of America.

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