Too often, and too recently, the tragic nature of a creative souls’ path of destruction cuts short, or compromises, that souls initial intent to be heard. Think Pollack, think Winehouse, think Hendrix…think Whitney. There seems to be limitless stories of intelligence, artistry and creativity that reach only the full potential of the moment…but never the [...]
Archive for Category: "black history month 2012"
Ma Rainey: An Inspiration
Born with more sizzle than Coca-Cola, Ma Rainey made her debut in the same year as the effervescent drink, in 1886. Growing up in the soulful south of Columbus Georgia, Ma Rainey forged a path for generations of women, including her own, who longed to sing the blues. The “Mother of the Blues” as she [...]
Shemekia Copeland, Making Blues History by Monica Yasher
Shemekia Copeland is one busy lady! Recently, Shemekia was crowned Queen of the Blues, from the legendary Koko Taylor’s daughter. Shemekia talks about her time with Koko, and the lasting impression she has made on her life. Shemekia is a modern day woman taking her place in Blues History, as a real person who believes in the [...]
Elizabeth Cotten: “Cotten Style”
Counted by Bruce Springsteen as one of his “heroes” (RS Feb. 2009), Elizabeth Cotten rose above an unlikely beginning as a young mother and completely self taught musician. Born in Chapel Hill, NC in 1893, Elizabeth was playing the banjo by the age of 8. She soon graduated to her brother’s guitar until she was able to [...]
Billie Holiday, Living the Blues by Monica Yasher
Billie Holiday Lived the Blues Billie Holiday (1915-1959) was born in Baltimore, Maryland. Billie’s blues started at an extremely young age. At the age of thirteen she was thrown out of her parents home after becoming pregnant. She then lived with her grandparents and an older cousin while her mother left to work in New [...]
