Mamie Smith ( née Robinson ; May 26 , 1883 -- September 16 , 1946 ) was an American vaudeville singer , dancer , pianist and actress , who appeared in several films late in her career .
Mamie Smith ( born Mamie Robinson ; May 26 , 1883 -- September 16 , 1946 ) was an American vaudeville singer , dancer and pianist . She appeared in several movies .