Hociel Thomas facts for kids

Hociel Thomas (born July 10, 1904 – died August 22, 1952) was an American blues singer and pianist. She was known for her unique style, often called classic female blues.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Hociel Thomas was born in Houston, Texas. Her father, George Washington Thomas, was also a musician, a songwriter, and even published music. This meant music was a big part of her family life from the start.

Around 1916, when Hociel was about 12 years old, she moved to New Orleans, Louisiana. She went to live with her aunt, Sippie Wallace, who was a famous blues singer herself. Living with Sippie Wallace likely helped Hociel learn a lot about music and performing.

Building a Career

By 1924, Hociel Thomas moved to Chicago, Illinois. Chicago was a big city with many music clubs and theaters, and she performed in these places until the early 1930s.

Her recording career began in 1925 when she recorded for Gennett Records. In 1925 and 1926, she made several recordings for the famous Okeh label. On some of these recordings, she had amazing musicians playing with her. Her young uncle, Hersal Thomas, played the piano on a song called "Fish Tail Dance." She also recorded with the legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong.

Later Years and Legacy

During the 1930s, a tough time known as the Great Depression, it became harder for many musicians to find work. Hociel Thomas's music career slowed down, and she worked outside of music for a while.

In the early 1940s, she moved to Oakland, California. She returned to recording in 1946, making seven songs as both a pianist and singer with Mutt Carey for the Circle label. These were her last recordings. In 1948, she also performed with Kid Ory's Orchestra in San Francisco.

Hociel Thomas faced health challenges later in life, including losing her eyesight. She passed away on August 22, 1952, from heart disease. Her recordings remain an important part of blues history.