Ma Rainey, the so-called 'Mother of the Blues,' can now be heard clearer than ever

NPR | By Debbie Elliott,

Daniel Ofman, Sarah Robbins

Published July 26, 2026 at 4:46 PM EDT

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Ma Rainey was a musical pioneer. Her voice was once scratchy and hard to hear, but is now crystal clear on a new box set.

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Debbie Elliott

NPR National Correspondent Debbie Elliott can be heard telling stories from her native South. She covers the latest news and politics, and is attuned to the region's rich culture and history.

Daniel Ofman

Sarah Robbins

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Ma Rainey, the so-called 'Mother of the Blues,' can now be heard clearer than ever

Support quality journalism, like the story above, with your gift right now.

Support quality journalism, like the story above,
with your gift right now.