Josephine Baker

1919: Baker begins touring with the Jones Family Band as well as the Dixie Steppers. Baker performed comedic skits and danced.
1923: Baker lands a role in the Broadway musical "Shuffle Along." Performing as a member of the chorus, Baker added her comedic persona, making her popular with audiences.
Baker also moves to New York City. She is soon performing in "Chocolate Dandies." She also performs with Ethel Waters at the Plantation Club.
1925 to 1930: Baker travels to Paris and performs in La Revue Nègre at the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées. French audiences were impressed with Baker’s performance—especially Danse Sauvage, in which she wore only a feather skirt.
1926: Baker’s career hits its peak. Performing at Folies Bergère music hall, in a set called La Folie du Jour, Baker danced topless, wearing a skirt made of bananas. The show was successful and Baker became one of the most popular and highest-paid performers in Europe. Writers and artists such as Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, and E. E. Cummings were fans. Baker also was nicknamed “Black Venus” and “Black Pearl.”
1930s: Baker begins singing and recording professional. She also plays the lead in several films including Zou-Zou and Princesse Tam-Tam.
1936: Baker returned to the United States and performed. She was met with hostility and racism by audiences. She returned to France and sought citizenship.
1973: Baker performs at Carnegie Hall and receives strong reviews from critics. The show marked Baker’s comeback as a performer.
In April 1975, Baker performed at Bobino Theater in Paris. The performance was a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of her debut in Paris. Celebrities such as Sophia Loren and Princess Grace of Monaco were in attendance.

Josephine Baker introduction

career timeline

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