Mamie Smith Rank
About Mamie Smith
Mamie Smith, born Mamie Robinson, was a famous multi-talented and glamourous American entertainer, performing as a singer, pianist, dancer, and actress. In 1920, she made history, becoming the first African American singer to record a song in the “blues” genre. Her pioneering blues career paved the path for many successful female singers and blues artists.
Background & Early Life
From age 10, she worked as a vaudeville singer and entertainer and later embarked on various tours with the Four Dancing Mitchells. In 1913 at age 20, she worked as a singer in several clubs in Harlem.
Career Highlights
In February 1920, the film and music producer Perry Bradford brought her to the studios of “Okeh label” to record his songs “You Can’t Keep a Good Man Down” and “That Thing Called Love.” They then returned to the studio in August and recorded “Crazy Blues,” which was widely considered the first blues song by an African American. The song was highly successful, selling over a million copies in 1920, and was admitted into the “Grammy Hall of Fame” in 1994.
She later became one of the most famed blues singers in history, performing with many renowned musicians and labels. In addition, she starred in several films such as “Sunday Sinners” and “Stolen Paradise.”
Mamie Smith Rank
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F.A.Q. about Mamie Smith
When is her birthday?
Mamie Smith's birthday is on May 26, 1883.
In how many days is her birthday?
Mamie's birthday is in 183 days
How old was Mamie when she died?
She was 63 years old.
When did she die?
She died in September 16, 1946.
How old would she be today?
Mamie Smith would be 141 years old if she was alive today.
Where was Mamie from?
She was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S..