Jackson, Mahalia
(1911–1972)
Jackson, Mahalia (October 11, 1911; January 27, 1972) Mahalia Jackson was among the best-known and celebrated solo gospel vocalists of the twentieth century. Jackson broke down several barriers through her career: she blended the vocal styles of blues singers such as Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey with her gospel repertoire; her recordings and performances appealed equally to black and white audiences; and she made gospel music truly “popular,” something that could be heard on national radio and…