Lizzie Miles

Early Life and Career Beginnings: Lizzie Miles was an American blues and jazz singer born Elizabeth Mary Landreaux on March 31, 1895, in New Orleans, Louisiana. She began her musical career in the early 1900s, singing in vaudeville shows and cabarets in her hometown. Miles' distinctive voice, characterized by its deep, rich timbre and expressive delivery, quickly caught the attention of audiences and fellow musicians alike.

Pioneering Recording Artist: Lizzie Miles is regarded as one of the pioneering female recording artists in jazz and blues music. She made her first recordings in the 1920s, capturing her powerful vocals on early phonograph records. Miles' recordings showcased her mastery of blues and jazz standards, as well as her ability to infuse each song with emotion and authenticity. Her recordings helped popularize the blues genre and established her as a prominent figure in the early days of recorded music.

Collaborations and Musical Influence: Throughout her career, Lizzie Miles collaborated with some of the most influential musicians of her time. She performed with jazz legends such as Louis Armstrong, King Oliver, and Jelly Roll Morton, among others. Miles' soulful interpretations of blues and jazz classics influenced generations of singers and musicians, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. Her ability to convey raw emotion and storytelling through her singing set her apart as a truly exceptional artist.

Resurgence of Popularity: Although Lizzie Miles' recording career slowed down in the 1930s and 1940s, she experienced a resurgence of popularity in the 1950s during the traditional jazz revival. Miles began performing at jazz festivals and clubs around the United States and Europe, reintroducing audiences to her timeless music. Her performances received acclaim from both old fans and new audiences, reaffirming her status as a legendary figure in jazz and blues music.

Legacy and Recognition: Lizzie Miles' contributions to jazz and blues music have been recognized and celebrated by music historians and enthusiasts alike. She is remembered for her powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and groundbreaking recordings, which helped shape the early development of jazz and blues music. Miles' legacy lives on through her timeless recordings and the ongoing influence of her music on future generations of musicians. She remains a beloved figure in the history of American