Clara Smith was an eminent American classic female blues singer who significantly contributed to the genre's development during the 1920s and early 1930s. Born in 1894 in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, Clara Smith's velvety voice and emotive delivery captivated audiences during the peak era of blues recording. Dubbed the "Queen of the Moaners," a moniker that alluded to her deeply expressive and moaning style, Smith developed a repertoire that spoke to the trials and tribulations of African American women of her time.

Beginning her career in vaudeville, she transitioned to recording music, signing with Columbia Records. Her professional recordings started in 1923, with a prolific outpouring that ultimately resulted in over 120 sides before her career concluded. Her songs often dealt with themes of love, infidelity, and hardship, with a blend of sultriness and sorrow that became her trademark. Through albums like "Clara Smith Vol. 1 (1923-1924)" through to "Clara Smith Vol. 6 (1930-1932)," she left behind a valuable legacy of work that provides insight into the artistic and cultural climate of the period. Although Clara Smith's life was cut short when she passed away in 1935, her impact on the blues genre has been long-lasting, influencing numerous artists and garnering respect and reverence within the annals of music history.

Genres

Classic Female Blues

Latest Release

The Speakeasy Lady

Clara Smith

Album - 16 Tracks - Released February 26, 2021