Bessie Smith was a renowned and influential African American blues singer in the early 20th century. Born in 1894 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, she was known for her powerful voice, emotional delivery, and ability to convey the experiences of Black Americans through her music.

Smith began her career performing in vaudeville shows and later rose to fame with her recordings in the 1920s. She became one of the highest-paid Black entertainers of her time and was often referred to as the "Empress of the Blues." Some of her most popular songs include "Downhearted Blues," "Empty Bed Blues," and "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out."

Bessie Smith's music spoke to the struggles and joys of Black life during the Jim Crow era, and she became a symbol of resilience and strength for many in the Black community. Despite facing racism and discrimination throughout her career, she continued to perform and record music that resonated with audiences of all backgrounds.

Smith's legacy as a pioneering Black artist in the blues genre has endured long after her death in 1937. She paved the way for future generations of Black musicians and continues to be celebrated for her contributions to American music and Black culture.