American Masters Profile Gospel Legend Rosetta Tharpe on PBS

American Masters kicks off its 27th season with a documentary on Gospel Music Legend Sister Rosetta Tharpe.

 

 

 

 

 

Born in Cotton Plant, Arkansas in 1915, she and her mother relocated to Chicago as part of the Great Migration.  Joining the newly formed Church of God in Christ allowed Rosetta exposure to the music of the sanctified church and she developed a very distinctive playing style.  She would go on to rise from mere obscurity to one of the world’s most popular gospel singers and the first to cross over successfully into mainstream popular music, inspiring the likes of  Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Little Richard.

American Masters Rosetta Tharpe tribute will air on PBS on February 22nd in honor of Black History Month.  Check your local listings for time and channel.

httpv://youtu.be/E3JY_9paE_M