Bessie Smith - Outside of That

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I've got the meanest man in the land
But his love is that sticking brand
His kiss just lingers on my lips
And thrill me to my fingertips
People say I'm a fool
He's heartless and also cruel
But outside of that, he's all right with me
Outside of that, he's sweet as he can be

I love him as true as stars above
He beats me up, but how he can love
I never loved like that since the day I was born

I said for fun: "I don't want you no more"
And when I said that, I made sweet papa sore
He blacked my eyes, I couldn't see
Then he pawned the things he gave to me
But outside of that, he's all right with me

I said for fun: "I don't want you no more"
And when I said that, I made sweet papa sore
When he pawned my things I said: you're a dirty old thief
Now, then he turned around and knocks out both of my teeth
Outside of that, he's all right with me

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Bessie Smith

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Bessie Smith, born in 1894 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is renowned as “The Empress of Blues,” a title befitting her unparalleled talent and influence in the world of music. With her powerful voice and emotive delivery, she became one of the most celebrated vocalists of the 1900s.

In 1922, Smith signed a recording contract with Columbia Records, a groundbreaking achievement for Black musicians at the time. This marked the beginning of her rise to fame and success, as she became one of the highest-paid Black performers of her era. Throughout her career, she recorded numerous blues songs that showcased her exceptional vocal range and emotional depth.

Smith's unique vocal style had a profound impact on later jazz musicians, who drew inspiration from her expressive growls and soulful delivery. Despite facing challenges and discrimination as a Black woman in the music industry, Smith's talent and resilience shone through in her music, earning her a lasting legacy.

In addition to her musical contributions, Smith's personal life has also been a subject of interest and speculation. Rumored to be bisexual, she lived unapologetically and authentically, paving the way for future generations of LGBTQ+ artists. Her influence extended beyond her own time, as singers like Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, and Janis Joplin cited her as a primary influence on their music.

Tragically, Smith's life was cut short in 1937 following complications from a car accident. Despite her untimely death, her impact on the music world continues to be felt to this day. Her story has been immortalized in various forms of media, including film, television, and books, ensuring that her legacy as a pioneering and influential musician lives on for generations to come.