Memphis Minnie

Memphis Minnie (1897–1973) was a pioneering American blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter, celebrated as one of the most influential women in blues history. Born Lizzie Douglas in Algiers, Louisiana, she mastered both country and urban blues styles, excelling in fingerpicking and later adopting electric guitar. Her career spanned over three decades, producing iconic songs like "Bumble Bee," "Me and My Chauffeur Blues," and "When the Levee Breaks" (later adapted by Led Zeppelin). Known for her confident performances and sharp wit, Memphis Minnie broke barriers in a male-dominated genre, leaving an enduring legacy as one of the blues' greatest innovators.