The musicians of the Harlem Renaissance were highly influenced by current events
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Bessie Smith was a defiant voice in the Harlem Renaissance. She influenced others not only with her jazz and blues vocals, but with her spunk and strong will. Being openly and unapologetically sexual broke many stereotypes for not only African Americans but women as well. She sang about her experiences and this rebellious lifestyle she lived carried through to her music. She performed a many times at the Cotton Club, one of the most well known clubs of the time.
Louis Armstrong was a musician, innovator, and most importantly the King of Jazz. Armstrong revolutionized jazz music in Harlem with his unique approach to this particular style of music. His recognizable voice combined with scat singing style made him the icon he is today. Most importantly, Armstrong sang about the issues America faced. Being African American, Armstrong faced a lot of racism and discrimination. He always strived for the better and that shines through in some of his most famous work.
Billie Holiday began singing at a very young age. Being influenced by both Bessie Smith and Louis Armstrong, Holiday grew a great love for music. When she couldn’t get hired for her dancing, she would perform at nightclubs in Harlem. That is where her talent was finally recognized and she began to make it big. She sang about racism and discrimination, turning jukebox songs into jazz hits.
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Jacqueline Leyva