2.3 Gladys Bentley and queer performance
9 min read•august 19, 2024
was a trailblazing African American blues singer during the . Her gender-nonconforming performances challenged societal norms, making her an icon for queer visibility and expression in the early 20th century.
Bentley's masculine attire and unapologetic queer identity paved the way for future artists. Her legacy highlights the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality, inspiring generations of queer performers to embrace authenticity and resist oppression through art.
Gladys Bentley's early life
- Gladys Bentley, born in 1907, was a pioneering African American blues singer and performer during the Harlem Renaissance
- Her early life experiences shaped her identity as a gender-nonconforming queer artist who challenged societal norms
Childhood in Philadelphia
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- Bentley grew up in a working-class family in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- From a young age, she expressed a preference for masculine clothing and activities typically associated with boys
- Faced rejection and disapproval from her family due to her gender nonconformity
- Found solace in music, teaching herself to play the piano and developing her singing voice
Struggles with gender identity
- Bentley grappled with her gender identity throughout her childhood and adolescence
- Experienced a sense of alienation and disconnection from the expectations placed on her as a girl
- Sought to express her authentic self through her appearance and behavior, despite societal pressures to conform
- Faced discrimination and ostracism from her community due to her gender nonconformity
Move to New York City
- In the 1920s, Bentley moved to New York City to pursue her passion for music and performance
- Attracted to the vibrant cultural scene of the Harlem Renaissance, which celebrated Black artistry and expression
- Found a more accepting environment for her gender nonconformity and queer identity in Harlem
- Began performing in speakeasies and clubs, honing her skills as a blues singer and entertainer
Harlem Renaissance
- The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural and artistic movement that flourished in the 1920s and 1930s
- Centered in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City, it celebrated African American creativity, intellectualism, and pride
- Provided a platform for Black artists, writers, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents and challenge racial stereotypes
Cultural and artistic movement
- The Harlem Renaissance encompassed various forms of artistic expression, including literature, music, visual art, and dance
- Black artists explored themes of identity, racism, and the African American experience through their work
- Influenced by African heritage, as well as contemporary social and political issues
- Sought to redefine Black culture and assert the value of African American contributions to American society
Celebration of Black identity
- The Harlem Renaissance promoted a positive and empowering image of Black identity
- Challenged the negative stereotypes and caricatures that had long been perpetuated by white society
- Encouraged pride in African American history, culture, and achievements
- Fostered a sense of community and solidarity among Black artists and intellectuals
Queer subculture in Harlem
- Within the Harlem Renaissance, there existed a vibrant queer subculture
- Many Black queer artists found acceptance and opportunities to express themselves in Harlem's nightclubs and speakeasies
- performances, same-sex relationships, and gender nonconformity were more openly tolerated in Harlem compared to other parts of society
- Queer artists like Gladys Bentley, , and were celebrated figures in the Harlem Renaissance
Bentley's rise to fame
- Gladys Bentley's unique style and captivating stage presence quickly garnered attention in Harlem's nightlife scene
- Her performances challenged gender norms and celebrated queer identity, attracting diverse audiences
Performances at the Clam House
- Bentley gained notoriety for her performances at the , a popular speakeasy in Harlem
- Dressed in masculine attire, she entertained patrons with her powerful vocals and bawdy lyrics
- Improvised raunchy and suggestive verses, pushing the boundaries of sexual expression
- Created a rowdy and inclusive atmosphere that welcomed queer and straight audiences alike
Signature style and persona
- Bentley developed a distinctive stage persona that subverted traditional gender roles
- Wore tailored suits, top hats, and men's shoes, presenting a masculine appearance
- Exuded confidence and sexual charisma, flirting with both male and female audience members
- Incorporated elements of drag and gender play into her performances, blurring the lines between masculinity and femininity
Popularity among queer audiences
- Bentley's unapologetic expression of her queer identity resonated with LGBTQ+ audiences
- Became an icon and role model for queer people, particularly in the Black community
- Her performances provided a space for queer individuals to gather, socialize, and feel a sense of belonging
- Attracted a devoted following of queer fans who admired her talent and authenticity
Gender nonconformity in performance
- Gladys Bentley's performances were groundbreaking in their defiance of gender norms and expectations
- Her masculine presentation and behavior on stage challenged the rigid gender roles of the time
Masculine attire and demeanor
- Bentley's signature style involved wearing men's clothing, such as suits, ties, and hats
- Adopted a masculine swagger and confident demeanor on stage
- Subverted the expectation that female performers should be traditionally feminine and demure
- Used her masculine appearance to assert her queer identity and reject societal constraints
Subversion of traditional gender roles
- Through her performances, Bentley challenged the notion that women should be submissive and passive
- Displayed a dominant and assertive presence on stage, commanding the attention of the audience
- Flirted with and seduced both men and women, defying heteronormative expectations
- Blurred the lines between masculine and feminine, creating a space for and nonconformity
Unapologetic queer expression
- Bentley's performances were a bold and unapologetic celebration of her queer identity
- Refused to hide or tone down her sexuality and gender expression for the sake of respectability
- Used her platform to give visibility and voice to the experiences of queer people
- Inspired and empowered other queer individuals to embrace their authentic selves
Bentley's romantic relationships
- Gladys Bentley's personal life was marked by several significant romantic relationships that challenged societal norms
- Her same-sex relationships and interracial affair were groundbreaking in an era of widespread homophobia and racism
Marriage to a woman
- In the 1930s, Bentley married a woman in a private ceremony
- The marriage was a bold statement of her queer identity and commitment to her partner
- Challenged the legal and social barriers that prevented same-sex couples from having their relationships recognized
- Demonstrated the possibility of queer love and partnership, even in the face of societal disapproval
Affair with a white woman
- Bentley had a highly publicized affair with a white woman, which scandalized both the Black and white communities
- The interracial nature of the relationship defied the strict racial segregation and anti-miscegenation laws of the time
- Highlighted the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality in Bentley's life and the broader society
- Faced backlash and criticism from both the Black and white press, who sensationalized and condemned the relationship
Challenges of interracial love
- Bentley's affair with a white woman exposed the challenges and dangers of interracial relationships in a deeply racist society
- Risked violence, ostracism, and legal repercussions for daring to love across racial lines
- Navigated the complex dynamics of power, privilege, and oppression within the relationship
- Faced judgment and disapproval from both the Black and white communities, who viewed the relationship as a transgression
Influence on queer performance
- Gladys Bentley's groundbreaking performances and unapologetic queer identity had a profound impact on the world of queer art and entertainment
- Her influence can be seen in the work of subsequent generations of queer performers and activists
Breaking barriers for Black queer artists
- Bentley was one of the first Black queer artists to achieve mainstream success and visibility
- Paved the way for other Black LGBTQ+ performers to express themselves and find acceptance in the entertainment industry
- Challenged the intersecting oppressions of racism, homophobia, and gender discrimination
- Inspired Black queer artists to embrace their identities and use their art as a form of resistance and self-expression
Paving the way for drag kings
- Bentley's masculine presentation and gender-bending performances laid the foundation for the art of drag king performance
- Demonstrated the power and subversive potential of female masculinity on stage
- Influenced the development of drag king culture and aesthetics in the decades that followed
- Provided a template for future generations of queer female performers to explore gender and sexuality through drag
Legacy in queer music and nightlife
- Bentley's impact can be seen in the continued prominence of queer themes and artists in music and nightlife
- Her fearless expression of queer desire and gender nonconformity set a precedent for future queer musicians
- Helped to establish queer nightclubs and performance spaces as important sites of community and resistance
- Influenced the evolution of queer music genres, such as disco, punk, and hip hop, which have often been spaces for LGBTQ+ expression
Later life and career
- In the later years of her life, Gladys Bentley faced a decline in her career and personal struggles
- Her experiences reflect the challenges and pressures faced by queer artists in a society that was still largely unaccepting of LGBTQ+ identities
Move to Los Angeles
- In the 1940s, Bentley moved to Los Angeles in an attempt to revive her career
- Found limited opportunities for Black queer performers in the Hollywood entertainment industry
- Struggled to recapture the same level of success and popularity she had enjoyed during the Harlem Renaissance
- Faced discrimination and typecasting based on her race, gender, and sexuality
Brief marriage to a man
- In the 1950s, Bentley briefly married a man, J. T. Gibson
- The marriage was seen as an attempt to conform to societal expectations and pressure to "reform" her queer identity
- Highlighted the challenges faced by queer individuals in a society that demanded heteronormativity and gender conformity
- The marriage was short-lived and ended in divorce
Decline in popularity and health
- As musical tastes and social attitudes changed, Bentley's career began to wane
- Faced financial difficulties and struggled to find steady work in the entertainment industry
- Experienced health problems, including issues related to her weight and substance abuse
- Reflected the toll that years of marginalization, discrimination, and personal struggles had taken on her well-being
Bentley's impact and legacy
- Despite the challenges she faced in her later life, Gladys Bentley's impact and legacy as a pioneering queer artist remain significant and enduring
- Her contributions to music, performance, and LGBTQ+ visibility continue to inspire and influence new generations of queer artists and activists
Trailblazer for queer visibility
- Bentley was a trailblazer who brought queer identity and expression to the forefront of popular entertainment
- Her unapologetic embrace of her masculinity and same-sex desire challenged societal norms and expectations
- Provided representation and validation for queer individuals who had long been marginalized and invisible in mainstream culture
- Demonstrated the power of visibility and authenticity in the face of oppression and discrimination
Intersection of race, gender, and sexuality
- Bentley's experiences highlight the complex intersections of race, gender, and sexuality in the lives of queer people of color
- Navigated the challenges of being a Black queer woman in a society that oppressed and marginalized all three identities
- Used her art to explore and express the unique struggles and joys of living at the intersection of multiple marginalized communities
- Paved the way for future generations of queer artists to address issues of and identity in their work
Enduring influence on queer art and culture
- Bentley's legacy continues to shape and inspire queer art and culture to this day
- Her boldness, creativity, and authenticity set a standard for queer performers and artists to follow
- Helped to establish a lineage of queer music and performance that celebrates identity, desire, and resistance
- Remains an icon and role model for queer individuals, particularly those in the Black and LGBTQ+ communities, who see in her a reflection of their own struggles and triumphs
Key Terms to Review (20)
Apollo Theater: The Apollo Theater is a historic music hall located in Harlem, New York City, renowned for its significant role in African American cultural history and the arts. Opened in 1934, it became a premier venue for black performers and was instrumental in launching the careers of many influential artists, making it a vital site for queer performance and expression, particularly during the Harlem Renaissance and beyond.
Bentley's 'The Black Cat' performance: Bentley's 'The Black Cat' performance was a groundbreaking and provocative theatrical piece that showcased the talents of Gladys Bentley, a prominent African American lesbian performer in the Harlem Renaissance. This performance was notable for its bold exploration of gender and sexuality, challenging societal norms through its raunchy humor and defiance of traditional gender roles. Bentley's work in this performance helped to create a space for queer expression within the larger context of early 20th-century American culture.
Benton's 'The Way We Live Now': 'The Way We Live Now' is a concept introduced by artist and writer Benton, which examines the contemporary social and cultural dynamics through a queer lens. This term emphasizes how art and performance reflect the realities of life for marginalized communities, particularly focusing on identity, sexuality, and societal norms. In this context, it connects to the lived experiences of queer individuals and the ways in which performance art becomes a medium for expressing and challenging these experiences.
Bessie Smith: Bessie Smith was an influential African American blues singer in the early 20th century, known for her powerful voice and emotive performances. She earned the title 'Empress of the Blues' and became a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, which also served as a backdrop for queer performance during that time. Her music often addressed themes of love, loss, and social issues, resonating deeply with diverse audiences and paving the way for future artists in both the blues genre and queer performance spaces.
Cabaret: Cabaret is a form of theatrical entertainment that combines music, dance, and drama, often performed in an intimate setting like a nightclub or restaurant. It emerged in the late 19th century in Paris and became a popular venue for showcasing avant-garde art and queer performance, where artists could express their identity and challenge societal norms in a safe space.
Camp: Camp is an aesthetic style and sensibility that embraces exaggerated, playful, and often theatrical elements to subvert traditional notions of taste and beauty. It thrives on the absurd, the over-the-top, and the ironic, allowing for the exploration of identity, gender, and societal norms through humor and exaggeration.
Clam house: A clam house refers to a specific type of bar or nightclub that was popular in the early to mid-20th century, often associated with queer nightlife. These establishments were known for their informal atmosphere, allowing patrons to gather and socialize freely, often featuring live entertainment, including performances by queer artists. Clam houses became crucial spaces for the LGBTQ+ community, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural expression in an era when such spaces were limited.
Drag: Drag is a performance art form where individuals dress in exaggerated clothing and adopt behaviors associated with the opposite gender, often to entertain and challenge societal norms. It serves as a powerful medium for self-expression, political commentary, and the exploration of gender identity and fluidity. The art of drag has evolved into various styles and subcultures, contributing significantly to queer culture and performance.
Feminist theory: Feminist theory is an interdisciplinary framework that examines the ways in which gender, particularly women's experiences, intersects with various social, political, and cultural contexts. It challenges traditional narratives and power structures, advocating for gender equality while addressing issues such as representation, identity, and oppression. This theory plays a crucial role in analyzing how different forms of art reflect and challenge societal norms regarding gender and sexuality.
Gender fluidity: Gender fluidity refers to a gender identity that can change over time or depending on the situation, encompassing a spectrum of identities that may shift between traditional understandings of masculinity and femininity. This concept challenges binary notions of gender, allowing individuals to express themselves in ways that may not fit neatly into male or female categories, often embracing aspects of both or neither.
Gladys Bentley: Gladys Bentley was a groundbreaking African American singer, pianist, and drag performer active during the Harlem Renaissance, known for her bold, unapologetic expression of sexuality and gender nonconformity. Bentley's performances often challenged societal norms and celebrated queer identity, making her a significant figure in the context of queer performance art.
Harlem Renaissance: The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural, social, and artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century, primarily during the 1920s, centered in Harlem, New York. It celebrated African American cultural expressions and produced a significant body of literature, music, visual art, and performance that often included themes of identity, racial pride, and social critique, with a notable undercurrent of queer expression and exploration.
Intersectionality: Intersectionality is a framework that examines how various social identities, such as race, gender, sexuality, and class, intersect and interact to create overlapping systems of discrimination or disadvantage. This concept helps to understand the complexity of social issues and the unique experiences of individuals who belong to multiple marginalized groups.
Kitsch: Kitsch refers to art, objects, or design that is considered to be in poor taste due to its overly sentimental or gaudy nature. It often evokes a sense of nostalgia and is frequently associated with mass production and commercialism. In the context of queer performance, kitsch can serve as a tool for subverting traditional aesthetics and embracing camp sensibilities, allowing artists to challenge societal norms while engaging audiences in both a critical and playful manner.
Lgbtq+: LGBTQ+ is an acronym that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and the '+' represents other sexual orientations and gender identities not specifically included in the acronym. This term emphasizes the diversity within the community and aims to create an inclusive space for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It highlights the intersections of various identities and experiences in relation to societal norms, culture, and history.
Ma Rainey: Ma Rainey was a pioneering African American blues singer known as the 'Mother of the Blues,' whose career flourished in the 1920s. She was celebrated for her powerful voice, emotional depth, and her ability to infuse her performances with themes of love, pain, and resilience. Rainey's impact on music and culture is significant, especially within the context of queer performance, where she expressed a bold persona that challenged societal norms around gender and sexuality.
McCarthyism: McCarthyism refers to the political practice of making accusations of subversion or treason without proper evidence, primarily associated with Senator Joseph McCarthy's campaign against alleged communists in the early 1950s in the United States. This era was characterized by heightened fears of communism and led to widespread investigations, blacklisting, and persecution of individuals in various sectors, including arts and entertainment, significantly affecting queer performance and expression during this time.
Queer theory: Queer theory is an academic field that emerged in the early 1990s, focusing on the study of gender and sexuality from a critical perspective. It challenges traditional norms and categories surrounding identity, emphasizing the fluidity of gender and sexual orientation. This approach connects to various forms of expression and activism, highlighting the importance of intersectionality in understanding the complexities of identity.
The aids crisis: The AIDS crisis refers to the widespread epidemic of HIV/AIDS that emerged in the late 20th century, particularly affecting marginalized communities, including gay men and people of color. This health crisis not only resulted in a significant loss of life but also highlighted issues of stigma, discrimination, and the urgent need for medical research and public health initiatives.
The Stonewall Inn: The Stonewall Inn is a historic gay bar located in Greenwich Village, New York City, known as the site of the Stonewall Riots in June 1969, which were pivotal events in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. The riots were a response to a police raid, and they sparked a wave of activism and demand for equal rights for queer individuals, significantly shaping modern LGBTQ+ culture and politics.