Sing Like Sissieretta

Description

Sissieretta Jones was born Matilda Sissieretta Joyner in Virginia in 1868. Her father was a pastor, and Sissieretta began singing in the church choir at an early age. When church members commented on how good her voice was, she somehow found the funds to attend the Providence Academy of Music in Rhode Island. In 1886 she went to Boston to get additional formal training and soon after was hired as the lead vocalist for the Tennessee Jubilee Singers. The group toured the Caribbean, packing in mixed race audiences. Their second tour was managed by an all black team, including Sissieretta’s husband. They performed for dignitaries and other high profile people, who would gift Sissieretta medals and jewels, which she began pinning across her chest for performances and became her signature look.

In 1892, she performed operatic pieces to an audience of thousands at the newly built Madison Square Garden. She then performed at the White House for President Benjamin Harrison, and became the first African American woman to headline a concert at the main stage of Carnegie Hall. After touring Europe, Jim Crow laws and increasing racial discrimination made it difficult for Sissieretta to pursue her career. She had to sell her jewels and medals to survive, and died in poverty in 1933. During the height of her career, she was nicknamed “Black Patti” after the Italian opera singer Adelina Patti. It was a name Sissieretta did not approve of, but it followed her for the rest of her life.

This classic unisex jersey short sleeve tee fits like a well-loved favorite. Soft cotton and quality print make users fall in love with it over and over again. These t-shirts have-ribbed knit collars to bolster shaping. The shoulders have taping for better fit over time. Dual side seams hold the garment’s shape for longer.

.: 100% Airlume combed and ringspun cotton (fiber content may vary for different colors)
.: Light fabric (4.2 oz/yd² (142 g/m²))
.: Retail fit
.: Tear away label
.: Runs true to size

Photo is public domain. “Sissiretta Jones” by Napoleon Sarony, 9 Mar 1821 – 9 Nov 1896 is marked with CC0 1.0.