Esther Bigeou
Albums
Facts about Esther Bigeou
Esther Bigeou was a prominent American blues and jazz singer during the early 20th century. Here are some key facts about her:
Early Life and Career: Esther Bigeou was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, around 1890. She began her career as a performer in the early 1910s, establishing herself as a talented blues and jazz singer in the vibrant music scene of New Orleans. Bigeou quickly gained recognition for her powerful voice, expressive delivery, and charismatic stage presence, earning her a devoted following among audiences in the South.
Recording Career: Esther Bigeou recorded several sides for prominent record labels during the 1920s, including Columbia Records and Paramount Records. Her recordings featured a mix of blues, jazz, and popular songs of the era, showcasing her versatile vocal abilities and dynamic range. Bigeou's recordings were well-received by critics and fans alike, cementing her reputation as one of the leading female vocalists of the early jazz and blues era.
Style and Influence: Esther Bigeou's singing style was characterized by its soulful expressiveness, emotive delivery, and powerful vocal technique. She drew inspiration from the blues singers of the Deep South as well as the jazz vocalists of the burgeoning jazz scene in New Orleans. Bigeou's performances were known for their raw emotional intensity and improvisational flair, earning her comparisons to other leading female vocalists of the era, such as Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey.
Collaborations and Performances: Esther Bigeou performed alongside some of the most influential musicians of her time, including King Oliver, Jelly Roll Morton, and Louis Armstrong. She was a fixture in the jazz clubs and speakeasies of New Orleans, where she captivated audiences with her electrifying performances and magnetic stage presence. Bigeou's collaborations with other jazz and blues musicians helped to elevate her profile and solidify her status as a respected and admired vocalist in the jazz community.
Legacy: Esther Bigeou's contributions to the early jazz and blues music have left an enduring legacy on the American music landscape. She was one of the pioneering female vocalists of the early 20th century, helping to pave the way for future generations of women in jazz and blues music. Though her recorded legacy is relatively small compared to some of her contemporaries, Bigeou's influence on the development of jazz and blues singing cannot be overstated,