Like many African-American singers of the 20s and beyond, Lizzie Miles would be torn between staying respectful to her love of God and performing the blues, seen by many at the time as the Devil’s Music.

After a number of years out of the limelight following a serious illness, Lizzie was persuaded to perform again. Thing is, she had vowed in prayer not to perform onstage ever again if she was saved from the illness. So, for the rest of her career she would perform on the floor in front of, or beside, the stage.

Born Elizabeth Mary Landreaux in 1895, Lizzie didn’t like to be defined as a blues singer, preferring to be known as a performer of many different styles. Songs like the tough blues of Salty Dog and the Creole jazz of Eh La Bas demonstrate her formidable range and skills.

Listen: Lizzie Miles with Sharkey Bonano in 1952 - Salty Dog (1952)

Listen: Lizzie Miles with Bob Scobey - Eh La Bas (1956)