The Essential Bessie Smith

 Bessie Smith was the "Empress of the Blues" back in the 20's and 30's, performing in her urban/jazzy style - piano, horn section, etc. - and touring with the likes of Ma Rainey before Bessie embarked on her highly successful solo career. 

This 2-CD set is a fab collection of some of Bessie's best known works including greats such as "Aggravatin' Papa", "'Taint Nobody's Business If I Do", her take on Ma Rainey's "Bo Weavil Blues", her sultry version of "St. Louis Blues", the Dixieland Jazz-styled "Cake Walkin' Babies From Home", "Alexander's Ragtime Band", "There'll Be a Hot Time in the Old City Tonight", "Send Me to the 'Lectric Chair", "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out", the devilish "Moan, You Moaners", the lascivious "Need a Little Sugar in My Bowl", "Gimme a Pigfoot and a Bottle of Beer" and an incredible amount more! 

Truly a superior collection and a great deal - pick it up for a fine overview of this talented woman!