11 Thomas “Georgia Tom” Dorsey (1899-1993) and “Tampa Red” Whittaker (1904-1981) “It's Tight Like That” 1928; “If I Could Hear My Mother Pray Again” 1934

Also known as The Hokum Boys, they met through the auspices of Ma Rainey and recorded numerous hits during the Depression. Whittaker became a lead performer and songwriter in the Chicago blues scene. Dorsey, however, invested himself more into gospel music. After the 1932 death of his wife Nettie during childbirth, he wrote the hymn, “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” (Georgiaencyclopedia.org). His 1934 recording of “If I Could Hear My Mother Pray Again” and the 1973 album Precious Lord are listed on the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress.

Tom Dorsey and Red Whittaker "It's Tight Like That"

Thomas A. Dorsey "If I Could Hear My Mother Pray Again"