Linda Hopkins

Linda Hopkins was a powerhouse vocalist who effortlessly bridged gospel, blues, and Broadway with her rich, soulful voice. Born Melinda Helen Matthews in 1920s New Orleans, she grew up singing in church choirs before carving out a legendary career. Her gospel roots shone through in every performance, whether she was belting blues standards like "Walkin' and Talkin' Blues" or commanding theater stages. Hopkins made history with her Tony Award-winning one-woman show *Me and Bessie*, where she channeled blues icon Bessie Smith with electrifying authenticity.

A true musical chameleon, Hopkins collaborated with greats like Mahalia Jackson and Muddy Waters while maintaining her own distinct style. Her live albums like *The Living Legend LIVE!* capture the raw energy that made her performances unforgettable. Even as she explored rock-infused blues in later releases like *Rock And Roll Blues*, Hopkins never lost the spiritual fervor that first propelled her from church pews to international acclaim.

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