Bessie Smith: Empress of the Blues

Bessie Smith, often referred to as the Empress of the Blues, was known for her amazing classical blues style. She was one of the most popular blues singers during the 1920s, but when the Great Depression hit she had to revamp her style. Just as she was making a comeback with a more modern repertoire, her life was tragically cut short.

Photo courtesy of Library of Congress, Carl Van Vechten Photograph Collection.