May 8
Phillis Wheatley Published
In 1773, Phillis Wheatley published "Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral," making her the first African American to publish a book of poetry. Originally kidnapped from West Africa and enslaved in Boston, her literary achievement challenged prevailing racist assumptions about Black intellectual capacity.
Robert Johnson Born
Born May 8, 1911, Robert Johnson recorded only 29 songs, but his guitar playing and songwriting influenced virtually every blues and rock musician who followed. Songs like "Cross Road Blues" and "Sweet Home Chicago" are cornerstones of American music.
Mary Lou Williams Born
Born May 8, 1910, Mary Lou Williams was a jazz prodigy who performed and arranged for major bands. She mentored younger musicians including Thelonious Monk, Charlie Parker, and Dizzy Gillespie, and her career spanned virtually the entire history of jazz.