In this episode, Sarah and Drew explore the lives of LGBTQ musicians, starting with Bessie Smith and Josephine Baker. This conversation delves into the life of Bessie Smith, a pioneering blues singer known for her complex personality, turbulent relationships, and significant impact on music and culture. The discussion highlights her rise to fame, struggles with family and marriage, exploration of sexuality, confrontations with racism, and the powerful messages in her lyrics. Bessie's legacy is marked by her boldness and defiance, as well as her tragic end, which left a lasting impression on the music world. This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Josephine Baker, exploring her journey from a poor upbringing in St. Louis to becoming a celebrated performer in Paris. The discussion highlights her struggles with race and identity, her impact on civil rights, and her lasting influence on culture and society. Baker's bold performances and her role as a spy during World War II are also examined, showcasing her multifaceted contributions to art and activism.
Sources
Bessie Smith: The woman who sang the blues
https://youtu.be/o-TqtAIc21M?si=9IPG74mWk3m26y6I
Blues legacies and Black feminism : Gertrude "Ma" Rainey, Bessie Smith, and Billie Holiday
by Anglea Davis (1998)
The Scandalous and Triumphant Life of Josephine Baker.
https://youtu.be/s1lf_Vd4xqw?si=BB5hP5IIQ1B8BQG8
Josephine Baker: The Story of an Awakening
https://youtu.be/3nHUh_yjLaA?si=-f7J-jFgwc8a30jK
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