Fall 2026 OLLI Digital Catalog

FEMALE BLUES ROYALTY IN AMERICA: INSPIRING WOMEN 1920s-1980s (G567)

G – History

Have you ever thought about singing in a local blues club? The focus of our course will be on four artists that notably each had successful comeback singing and recording careers in their 60s and beyond: Alberta Hunter, Sippie Wallace, Victoria Spivey and Edith Wilson. We discuss their specific styles, influences, where and with whom they performed, etc. Ultimately, we will consider the meaning(s) of their lyrics as well as listen to some of their fabulous songs.

Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.

This offering meets for a total of 5 session(s).

INSTRUCTOR: Joan Lussky

LUSSKY, JOAN — Ph.D., information sciences, Drexel University. Former faculty member at the Catholic University of America, also taught at Drexel and Rowan universities, as well as presented workshops for various organizations. Currently enjoys reading, jewelry making, gardening and listening to Chicago blues.

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