Bessie Mae Smith facts for kids

Bessie Mae Smith was an American blues singer. She came from St. Louis and made many recordings. She recorded for famous labels like Okeh, Vocalion, and Paramount. Her music was released between 1927 and 1941.

She was known by several names during her career. Some reports say she was married to Delta blues musician Big Joe Williams. He sometimes said she helped write his famous song, “Baby, Please Don't Go”.

Who Was Bessie Mae Smith?

Bessie Mae Smith was a talented blues singer. She helped shape the sound of blues music. Her powerful voice touched many listeners. She recorded many songs during her active years.

Her Music Career

Bessie Mae Smith started recording in 1927. She continued making music until 1941. Her songs were released on different record labels. These labels included Okeh, Vocalion, and Paramount. She was a singer and also a songwriter.

Many Names, One Great Singer

Bessie Mae Smith used different names for her recordings. She was known as Bessie Mae Smith, Blue Belle, and St. Louis Bessie. She might have also recorded as Mae Belle Miller and Streamline Mae. Her record files sometimes listed her as Bessie Martin. One song was even reissued under the name Sara Carter. Songs by Streamline Mae had the composer listed as Mary Belle Smith. Despite the confusion, her former husband, Big Joe Williams, confirmed her name was Bessie Mae Smith.

Not to Be Confused

It is important not to confuse Bessie Mae Smith with another famous singer. She was not the same person as the well-known classic blues singer Bessie Smith. They were two different artists.