Ma Rainey Signs with Paramount Records, Begins Landmark Recordings

In December 1923, Ma Rainey signed with Paramount Records and began a five-year recording relationship that produced 100 songs. Known as the 'Mother of the Blues,' Rainey was one of the first women to record the blues professionally. Her earthy, unvarnished style contrasted with Bessie Smith's more polished approach and documented Southern rural Black culture for posterity.