calsfoundation@cals.org
March 20, 1915
“Sister Rosetta” Tharpe was born in Cotton Plant (Woodruff County). Tharpe was one of gospel music’s first superstars, the first gospel performer to record for a major record label (Decca), and an early crossover from gospel to secular music. Tharpe has been cited as an influence by numerous musicians, including Bob Dylan, Little Richard, Elvis Presley, and Arkansan Johnny Cash.