Trixie Smith was a prominent figure in the blues and vaudeville scene during the 1920s and 1930s. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1895, she moved to New York City during the Great Migration, where she would find her footing in entertainment. Smith first gained recognition in 1922 after winning a blues singing contest in Harlem, which effectively helped launch her recording career. She cut several records with Black Swan and Paramount, where her forceful and soulful voice, coupled with evocative lyrics, captured the complexity of African American life during that era.

Her music career spanned various genres, including blues, jazz, and vaudeville, allowing her to carve out a distinct place for herself in the musical narrative of the early 20th century. Notably, Smith's songwriting addressed themes of love, hardship, and societal issues with a blend of irony and realism. While she might be best remembered for her spirited blues numbers, she was also very much a part of the thriving vaudeville circuit. The compilations "Trixie Smith Vol. 1 1922-1924" and "Trixie Smith Vol. 2 1925-1929" offer a glimpse into her prolific output during the heyday of her career. Her influence extends beyond just her recordings; as a black female artist in the early 20th century, her contributions to the genre laid groundwork for future generations of blues musicians and vocalists.

Genres

Harlem Renaissance

Vintage Swing

Latest Release

Weary Blues - The 1922 Recordings (Remastered)

Trixie Smith

Album - 10 Tracks - Released January 2, 2024