Posts tagged: Bessie Smith

Voices That Shaped a Generation: Celebrating the Popular Vocalists of the 1920s–1930s

By , September 30, 2025 2:14 pm
A collage of vintage record labels and covers with the text "Popular Vocalists of the 1920s–1930s.

The 1920s and 1930s were transformative decades in American music. As technology evolved—from acoustic horns to electric microphones and national radio broadcasts—so did the role of the singer. For the first time, individual vocalists could connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, their voices crackling across radio waves and spinning from gramophones in homes across the country.

This golden age introduced us to vocal pioneers whose artistry laid the foundation for modern pop, jazz, and blues. Read More About This…

Celebrating Black Blues Artists for Black History Month!

By , February 7, 2020 12:46 pm
Photo of vintage sheet music and record covers celebrating Black blues musicians

In celebration of Black History Month, the Recorded Sound Archives has curated a collection of Black Blues Artists some of which are currently on display on the 1st floor of the FAU Wimberly Library for the month of February.

Click to discover 14 Blues Artists such as the voices of Huddie Leadbelly, Ethel Waters, Bessie Smith and more in this collection! Read More About This…

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