Bessie Smith was an American musician, born on April 15, 1894. She is known as the "Empress of the Blues" and was one of the most popular blues singers of the 1920s and 1930s. Smith's powerful voice and emotional performances made her a significant figure in the music industry. Her recordings, including "Downhearted Blues," have left a lasting legacy, influencing generations of musicians. She passed away on September 26, 1937.