Died On This Date (November 1, 2008) Rosetta Reitz / Founder of Rosetta Records
themusicsover Rosetta Reitz
September 28, 1924 – November 1, 2008
Rosetta Reitz was a much-respected feminist and music authority who formed her own label, Rosetta Records in 1979. The label specialized in lost recordings of female blues artist from the 1920s to the 1960s. Over the years, she released sides by the likes of Ida Cox, Bessie Smith, Ma Rainey and Mae West. Her packages were noted quality remasters, extensive liner notes and rare historical photos. Reitz curated the Newport Jazz Festival’s “Women of Jazz” tributes in 1980 and 1981. The programs included performances by Big Mama Thornton, Nell Carter and Koko Taylor. Rosetta Reitz was 84 when she passed away on November 1, 2008.