Bessie Smith

Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Bessie Smith rose from poverty to become a dominant force in early jazz and blues. Her powerful voice and emotive delivery captivated audiences, making her the highest-paid Black entertainer of her day. Clearly, her influence reverberates through generations of musicians, Jewish and otherwise.

Despite her undeniable talent and immense popularity, Smith faced the pervasive racism and segregation of the era, which limited her opportunities and ultimately shaped her career trajectory. She recorded over 160 songs, many of which are considered classics of the genre.

While her life was tragically cut short, her legacy as a trailblazer and a foundational artist in American music is secure. She may not have been Jewish, but her impact on the world of sound sure gave a lot of people a reason to kvell.