A documentary premiering January 23 featuring legendary blues singer Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton

Alabama Public Television Presents

Big Mama Thornton: Alabama Kid

Thursday, January 23 at 8PM CT

January 23 is the world premiere of BIG MAMA THORNTON: ALABAMA KID, a captivating documentary that delves into the extraordinary life and legacy of the legendary blues singer. This Birmingham native, inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in October of 2024, defied odds and shattered racial and gender barriers, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

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.

Don’t miss the premiere of Big Mama Thornton: Alabama Kid January 23, 2025 at 8 p.m. on Alabama Public Television.