A documentary premiering January 23 featuring legendary blues singer Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton
World Premiere at Historic Carver Theatre
Join us for a free screening of our new documentary film and enjoy live performances by the Magic City Blues Society, featuring Robert Harris, Elaine Hudson, Elnora Spencer, Jock Webb, and Jonny Nathan. The night will be emceed by Burgin Matthews.
Free and Open to the Public
Location: 1631 4th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Date and Time: Fri, Jan 17, 2025 7:00 PM
Sponsored by: Alabama Public Television, Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, One State Films
Who is Big Mama Thornton?
One of the greatest blues singers of all time, Alabama-born Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton was inducted into the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame in October 2024. She joined a traveling variety show at age 14, and for the next forty years, she navigated the murky waters of the music industry while retaining her own unique style, defying gender norms and refusing to sing anything unless it “sang to her soul.” Big Mama was also an inspiration to other artists—Elvis Presley’s hit “Hound Dog” was both inspired and originally sung by her, Joplin’s “Ball and Chain” was written by her and became Joplin’s signature song.
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