This video is just perfect, in my opinion. Right from Sister Rosetta Tharpe alighting from a buggy and being escorted to the stage on a disused railway platform to her superb artistry and incredible voice, everything exudes sass and spirit. What’s more, the visual impact of the dame rocking an electric guitar in a white bejewelled swing coat and heels is as glorious as it gets. Considering her achievements (she’s been dubbed the Godmother of Rock n’ Roll) and that she was inspiration to the likes of Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin and Jerry Lee Lewis, I’m surprised she’s not more widely known and referenced, but the historical precedent she set is inspiring.

Credits:
Photograph of  Sister Rosetta Tharpe by Jonnie Hamp from BBC
Video of Sister Rosetta Tharpe performing near Manchester in 1964 from YouTube