The blues, with its raw emotion and soulful melodies, has long been a powerful medium for expression and storytelling. Throughout its history, women have played a vital role in shaping the genre, both as pioneering artists who laid the foundation and as modern icons who continue to keep the blues alive. As we continue to celebrate women during Women’s History Month here at Stave & Slide and the remarkable impact they have had on the many passions we enjoy whether it be bourbon, cigars, cocktails or in this case blues music, let’s pay homage to the founding mothers and modern queens of the blues who have left an indelible mark on the genre.  Thank you to all the women who have poured their heart and soul into the music we love so much. 

 The Early Queens of the Blues

Bessie Smith:

Known as the "Empress of the Blues," Bessie Smith was one of the most influential blues singers of the 1920s and 1930s. With her powerful voice and emotive delivery, she paved the way for future generations of female blues artists.

Ma Rainey:

Dubbed the "Mother of the Blues," Ma Rainey was a trailblazing performer whose bold stage presence and distinctive vocal style helped define the early blues sound. Her recordings laid the groundwork for the development of the genre.

Big Mama Thornton:

Big Mama Thornton's gritty vocals and commanding stage presence made her a force to be reckoned with in the blues world. She is best known for her original recording of "Hound Dog," later popularized by Elvis Presley.  Her soulful influence is still reaching young listeners today as Doja Cat sampled a wailing recording of “Hound Dog” on her recent 2022 hit single “Vegas” by Shonka Dukureh, who portrayed the legendary Big Mama Thornton for the Baz Luhrman blockbuster film “Elvis”.

Memphis Minnie:

A skilled guitarist and songwriter, Memphis Minnie was one of the first female blues artists to achieve commercial success. Her dynamic performances and soulful lyrics continue to inspire musicians today.

Billie Holiday:

Though primarily known as a jazz singer, Billie Holiday's renditions of blues standards like "Strange Fruit" and "Fine and Mellow" solidified her place as a seminal figure in the blues genre.

 Ella Fitzgerald:

Ella Fitzgerald's impeccable vocal technique and improvisational prowess transcended genre boundaries, but her blues recordings remain some of the most celebrated in the genre's history.

Ruth Brown:

Ruth Brown's powerhouse vocals and charismatic stage presence made her a star of the rhythm and blues scene in the 1950s. Her influence can be heard in the work of countless contemporary artists.

Koko Taylor:

Koko Taylor, known as the "Queen of the Blues," was a force of nature on stage, delivering electrifying performances with her powerhouse vocals and commanding presence.

 Modern Female Blues Artists: Carrying the Torch

Etta James:

Etta James's impassioned vocals and emotionally charged performances earned her widespread acclaim as one of the greatest blues singers of all time. Her enduring influence can be heard in the work of generations of artists.

Bonnie Raitt:

Bonnie Raitt's distinctive slide guitar playing, and soulful vocals have made her a beloved figure in the blues-rock genre. With her expressive interpretations of classic blues songs, she has introduced the genre to new audiences around the world.

Susan Tedeschi:

Susan Tedeschi's soulful voice and fiery guitar playing have made her a leading figure in contemporary blues music. With her blend of blues, rock, and soul, she continues to push the boundaries of the genre.  As the frontwoman of the busy blues circuit touring Tedeschi-Trucks band, with husband Derek Trucks, Susan Tedeschi is keeping the blues alive and well.

Rory Block:

Rory Block’s virtuosic guitar playing and deep reverence for the blues tradition have earned her a reputation as one of the foremost interpreters of country blues. Her dedication to preserving the legacy of the genre is unmatched.

Shemekia Copeland:

Daughter of famed Texas bluesman Johnny Copeland, Shemekia Copeland's powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics have made her a voice for change in the blues world. With her bold approach to storytelling, she continues to shed light on important issues through her music. 

Joanne Shaw Taylor:

Joanne Shaw Taylor's blistering guitar solos and soulful vocals have earned her comparisons to blues legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Albert King. With her dynamic performances and electrifying stage presence, she's keeping the blues alive for a new generation of fans.

Beth Hart:

Beth Hart's raw, emotive vocals and fearless songwriting have made her a standout in the contemporary blues-rock scene. With her willingness to explore the depths of human emotion, she connects with audiences on a profound level.

Samantha Fish:

Samantha Fish's dynamic guitar playing, and husky vocals have earned her a reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in the blues world. With her genre-defying sound and fearless approach to songwriting, she's carving out her own unique place in the blues landscape.

From the founding mothers who paved the way for future generations to the modern icons who continue to push the boundaries of the genre, women have always been at the forefront of the blues. Their voices, their stories, and their music have helped shape the rich tapestry of the blues tradition, inspiring countless artists, and audiences around the world. As we take time to celebrate Women’s History Month let us honor the contributions of these remarkable women, by remembering their enduring legacy and the profound impact they've had on the world of music.