If black musicians were fond of Janis it was in part because she always credited performers who had influenced her. Odetta was the first singer Janis tried to imitate. “Every time Janis and I were in the same area,” she says, “Janis made a point to thank me profusely.” Janis even picked up half the cost of providing Bessie Smith’s grave with a proper headstone. Fiery Etta James was initially angry about all the attention Janis received, but she, too, was won over by her. “She gave me respect, and I began feeling proud to be her role model. When I heard her sing, I recognized my influence, but I also heard the electricity and rage in her own voice. She had balls. I loved her attitude.
An accomplished musician of folk and blues, Odetta Holmes was born in Birmingham, Alabama, and her vocal talent was noticed at a young age, with her classical training in operatic singing beginning at age 13. She moved to Los Angeles to study music at LA City College, dreaming of joining the opera. After a few years working in musical theatre, she moved to San Francisco and became enamored with its folk scene, resolving to sing folk songs herself. She gained national fame and recognition, particularly after a well-received collaboration with Harry Belafonte. Like many other folk singers of her generation, Odetta was politically active, singing "O Freedom" at the March on Washington. Among others, she is cited as an influence by Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Janis Joplin, and Maya Angelou. She died in 2008.