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Ma and Pa Poorhouse Blues

"Ma" Rainey &
"Papa" Charlie Jackson

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This recording was produced in Chicago during October of 1928 featuring Ma Rainey vocals, and
Papa Charlie Jackson six-string banjo & vocals.

In this humorous vocal duet "Mother of the Blues" Gertrude "Ma" Rainey is joined by un-credited "Father of Hokum" "Papa" Charlie Jackson to tackle the very real issue of poverty among minorities in Chicago at the time.

Although their verbal exchange is entertaining it also serves as food for thought on the subject of financial hardship among the lower class, an all too familiar theme.