Connecting Sister Rosetta Tharpe to Phoebe Bridgers: A Look at the Development of Female Singer/Guitarists From 1940-Today
Session Title
Performances
Faculty Mentor
Tracy Patterson, Ph.D.
College
College of Visual and Performing Arts
Department
Music
Abstract
Sister Rosetta Tharpe, a queer Black woman and "Queen of Rock and Roll," was an innovator of gospel music and popularized the use of the electric guitar in the 1940s. Her impact on American popular music is evident when listening to artists such as Elvis Presley, Little Richard, and Chuck Berry. While her influence on the music of her famous male counterparts is undeniable and referenced in documentaries, textbooks, and films, the trail-blazing guidance she provided female vocalist/guitarists is rarely highlighted. In this presentation, Ms.Prevatte will create a musical family tree connecting Sister Rosetta Tharpe to modern-day singer/songwriter, Phoebe Bridgers, by linking multiple known female singer/guitarists including Dolly Parton and Tracy Chapman. Citing direct connections and musical examples, Prevatte will explore Tharpe's musical lineage and conclude with a live performance of a piece from Bridger's repertoire.
Course Assignment
MUST 308 – Patterson
Previously Presented/Performed?
Winthrop University Showcase of Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavors, Rock Hill, SC, April 2023.
Type of Presentation
Performance of my creative work
Start Date
15-4-2023 12:00 PM
Connecting Sister Rosetta Tharpe to Phoebe Bridgers: A Look at the Development of Female Singer/Guitarists From 1940-Today
Sister Rosetta Tharpe, a queer Black woman and "Queen of Rock and Roll," was an innovator of gospel music and popularized the use of the electric guitar in the 1940s. Her impact on American popular music is evident when listening to artists such as Elvis Presley, Little Richard, and Chuck Berry. While her influence on the music of her famous male counterparts is undeniable and referenced in documentaries, textbooks, and films, the trail-blazing guidance she provided female vocalist/guitarists is rarely highlighted. In this presentation, Ms.Prevatte will create a musical family tree connecting Sister Rosetta Tharpe to modern-day singer/songwriter, Phoebe Bridgers, by linking multiple known female singer/guitarists including Dolly Parton and Tracy Chapman. Citing direct connections and musical examples, Prevatte will explore Tharpe's musical lineage and conclude with a live performance of a piece from Bridger's repertoire.
