	Home Rainey Ma 1886 - 1939 (53) QUOTES
	Gertrude Pridgett (1886 - 1939), known as Ma Rainey, was an American blues and jazz singer, one of the first professional blues singers. She was born on April 26, 1886 in Columbus, Georgia. Her career began through her participation in a talent contest when she was about twelve years old and a little later she worked as a cabaret singer. Her first recording dates back to 1923 and within five years she had more than 100 recordings to her credit. Its fame spread significantly mainly in the American South. Ma Rainey influenced many musicians and singers, having a decisive contribution to the formation of traditional blues. She retired from singing in 1935 and returned to her hometown where she set up and directed two theaters. She died on December 22, 1939.

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Rainey Ma 1886 - 1939 (53)

QUOTES

Gertrude Pridgett (1886 - 1939), known as Ma Rainey, was an American blues and jazz singer, one of the first professional blues singers.

She was born on April 26, 1886 in Columbus, Georgia. Her career began through her participation in a talent contest when she was about twelve years old and a little later she worked as a cabaret singer. Her first recording dates back to 1923 and within five years she had more than 100 recordings to her credit. Its fame spread significantly mainly in the American South. Ma Rainey influenced many musicians and singers, having a decisive contribution to the formation of traditional blues.

She retired from singing in 1935 and returned to her hometown where she set up and directed two theaters. She died on December 22, 1939.