The Power of Women's Blues

Service Description

The Power of Women's Blues with Vicci & Jessie A good 15 years before Robert Johnson even made his first recording, the blues was well established by a group of early innovators: women such as Mamie Smith, Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Lucille Bogan and many more. These early blues women defied racism, sexism and, many, homophobia. Their lives were governed by an independent spirit; they were fearless and strong and they sang about reality. In this half lecture / half dance class you will analyse the lyrics of some well known blues songs written for and by women and delve into the socio-political reasons for why they are so important and powerful. And with the strength of artists such as Koko Taylor, Alberta Hunter and Nina Simone behind you, you will start to embody the power these women expressed through their music.