description Ida Cox Overview
Ida Cox was an African American blues singer and vaudeville performer nicknamed the 'Uncrowned Queen of the Blues.' She recorded prolifically for Paramount Records in the 1920s, writing many of her own songs under her name and various pseudonyms. She toured on the Theater Owners Booking Association circuit, which served African American audiences and performers across the United States. After a period away from the industry, she returned to performing and recording in the 1960s.
insights Ranking position
Ida Cox ranks #56 of 161 in the Vaudeville ranking, behind New York Hippodrome, ahead of Pantages Circuit.
help Ida Cox FAQ
What was Ida Cox's famous nickname?
Ida Cox, a prominent African American blues singer, was widely known as the "Uncrowned Queen of the Blues." She earned this title during her massive popularity in the 1920s alongside her peer, Bessie Smith.
What record label did Ida Cox record for in the 1920s?
She recorded prolifically for Paramount Records, a label famous for its "race records" series aimed at Black audiences. During this time, she wrote many of her own songs, which was uncommon for female blues artists of the era.
What theater circuit did Ida Cox perform on?
Cox was a major star on the Theater Owners Booking Association (TOBA) circuit, the premier vaudeville circuit for Black performers in the 1920s. She commanded huge audiences and was a top-billed act across the United States.
Did Ida Cox write her own music?
Yes, she was a prolific songwriter and often published her music under her own name as well as various pseudonyms. This allowed her to maintain creative control and collect royalties in an industry that frequently exploited Black artists.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
