Victoria Spivey

"A rare collection of performances by America's premier bluesmen at the peak of their artistry."--Container

The 1920s "classic era" of recorded blues was dominated by women who lived and performed in the cities. This Rough Guide explores its glitzy heyday when singers such as Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey became the first real stars of the blues.

"From the earthy guitar-driven country blues of Blind Lemon Jefferson and Charley Patton to the sequined glamour of classic blues singers Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey, this Rough Guide charts the early recorded history of the blues through its key pioneers."--Publisher description