Gertrude “Ma” Rainey was born in Columbus, Georgia. Widely celebrated as the “Mother of the Blues,” she began performing at the Columbus Opera House in 1900 during a talent show called The Bunch of Blackberries. Known for her deep, soulful voice and pioneering role in shaping blues music, Rainey recorded her first track in 1923 and continued until 1928. Her legacy influenced generations of blues and jazz artists. She passed away on December 22, 1939.
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