Jessie Smith (singer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jessie Smith
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| Background information | |
| Also known as | Little Miss Jessie Jessie David Jessie Smith Lucas |
| Born | November 28, 1941 Clarksdale, Mississippi, U.S. |
| Died | February 4, 2021 (aged 79) Alton, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | R&B |
| Occupation(s) | Singer |
| Associated acts | Benny Sharp The Ikettes Ike & Tina Turner The Mirettes |
Jessie Smith was an American R&B (Rhythm and Blues) singer. She was born on November 28, 1941, and passed away on February 4, 2021. Jessie started her singing career with a musician named Benny Sharp. She was known as Little Miss Jessie back then.
Jessie became famous as one of the first members of The Ikettes. This was a singing group that performed with Ike & Tina Turner. Later, she sang backup for many other artists. These included Dr. John, Paul Williams, and José Feliciano.
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Jessie's Life and Music Career
Jessie Smith was born in Clarksdale, Mississippi. She grew up in Alton, Illinois. As a teenager, she sang gospel songs in her church. She was also part of a gospel group called The Monroe-Ettes.
Starting Her Music Journey
When Jessie was 16, she won a local talent show. Sometimes, she sang backup for visiting musicians like Albert King. In 1961, she joined Benny Sharp's band in St. Louis. His band was called the Zorros of Rhythm.
With Benny Sharp's band, Jessie released her first song. It was called "My Baby Has Gone." She released it under the name Little Miss Jessie.
Becoming an Ikette
By 1962, Jessie joined the Ike & Tina Turner Revue. This was a big music show that moved to Los Angeles. Jessie, along with Robbie Montgomery and Venetta Fields, became the first official the Ikettes.
The Ikettes traveled a lot, performing almost every night. They sang at famous places like the Apollo Theater in New York. They also appeared on TV shows like American Bandstand.
The Ikettes had some popular songs in 1965. These included "Peaches 'N' Cream" and "I'm So Thankful." These songs were hits on both the Pop and R&B music charts.
Forming The Mirettes
In 1965, Jessie, Venetta, and Robbie left the Ike & Tina Turner Revue. They were not allowed to use the name Ikettes anymore. So, in 1966, they formed a new group called the Mirettes. They named the group after their new record label, Mirwood Records.
The Mirettes released a few songs. Their hit song "In the Midnight Hour" came out in 1968. After the Mirettes broke up, Jessie kept singing backup for other artists in the 1970s. She often worked with Robbie Montgomery. They sang on albums for artists like Dr. John.
Later Years
After her R&B career, Jessie settled in California. She married Edward Lucas and started a family. In 1990, she went back to her gospel roots. She sang in a church in Alton, Illinois, where she continued to share her voice.
Jessie Smith passed away on February 4, 2021, at the age of 79.
Jessie's Music Recordings
Jessie Smith was part of many recordings throughout her career.
Songs She Released
- 1961: "My Baby Has Gone" / "St. Louis Sunset Twist"
- 1973: "When Love Calls Your Name" / "Please Go" (with Mickey Stevenson)
Albums with The Ikettes and The Mirettes
Jessie sang on these albums as a member of The Ikettes or The Mirettes:
- 1965: Live! The Ike & Tina Turner Show
- 1967: The Ike & Tina Turner Show (Vol. 2)
- 1966: Soul The Hits
- 1968: In The Midnight Hour
- 1969: Whirlpool
