Influential Female Blues Performers

Painted by Pamela Fraizer, Alberta Hunter: Regarded as the first female Blues singer. Lil’ Hardin: Pianist, King Oliver’s Creole Band. (Alberta and Lil’ both recorded in Richmond) Memphis Minnie: Guitarist, blues performer. Sister Rosetta Tharp: Considered first gospel superstar. Elvis said she was one of his strongest influences. Big Mama Thornton: Wrote Janis Joplin’s hit “Ball ‘n’ Chain. First to record “Hound Dog,” 1953.