Alberta Hunter's life was a testament to resilience and passion. Born in 1895 in Memphis, Tennessee, she became a celebrated jazz and blues singer and songwriter. Her journey was marked by significant milestones, from her early days in Chicago to her later years as a performer in New York City. This article explores the key phases of her life, highlighting her determination and talent that left a lasting impact on the music world.
Early Life and Move to Chicago
Alberta Hunter's
early life was characterized by a strong desire to pursue music. At the age of 12, she moved to Chicago, a decision that would set the stage for her future career. The circumstances of her move are not entirely clear; she either ran away from home or moved with her family. In Chicago, she took on various jobs, such as peeling potatoes, to support herself while nurturing her dream of becoming a singer.
Her initial foray into the music scene involved performing in modest venues. However, her talent soon caught the attention of pianist Tony Jackson, with whom she worked at the Elite Cafe #1. This collaboration marked the beginning of her ascent in the music industry. By 1915, she secured a position at the prestigious Dreamland Café, one of the most notable clubs of the time.
Rise to Fame in the 1920s and 1930s
The 1920s and 1930s were pivotal decades for Alberta Hunter. She achieved significant success as both a singer and songwriter during this period. Her performances in clubs and on stages in New York and London solidified her reputation as a leading figure in jazz and blues. One of her most famous songs, "Downhearted Blues," co-written with Lovie Austin, gained widespread acclaim when performed by Bessie Smith in 1923.
Hunter's recording career also flourished during these years. She made several recordings with notable musicians, including Fletcher Henderson's band and the Original Memphis Five. Her collaboration with Clarence Williams and Louis Armstrong further showcased her versatility and talent. Her only chart success came with "Beale Street Blues," which reached number 16 on the Billboard top 30, featuring Fats Waller on the organ.
A New Chapter: Nursing and a Triumphant Return
In the mid-1950s, following the death of her mother, Alberta Hunter made a surprising career shift. She left the music industry and pursued a career in nursing, using a falsified birth certificate and high school diploma to gain admission to a nursing program. She worked at the Goldwater Memorial Hospital in New York for many years, finding fulfillment in this new role.
However, music remained a part of her life. In 1961, producer Chris Albertson convinced her to return to the studio, leading to new recordings with musicians like Lil Armstrong and Lovie Austin. Despite enjoying singing, Hunter continued her nursing career until she was forced to retire at the age of 81 in 1977.
Her retirement from nursing marked the beginning of a remarkable comeback in music. In 1978, at the age of 82, she recorded the album "The Amtrak Blues" and began performing again. Her performances at the Cookery in Greenwich Village were met with great success, leading to extended engagements and new opportunities, including television appearances and international tours. Alberta Hunter continued to perform until shortly before her death in 1984, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
