Bert Williams
1874 - 1922
5
Quotes
Biography
Bert Williams was a pioneering African-American vaudeville performer, comedian, and recording artist. He rose to fame in the early 20th century as one of the few black entertainers to achieve widespread success in the era of racial segregation. Williams became known for his comedic talents and ability to subvert stereotypes through humor. He often performed in blackface, a common practice at the time, but used his performances to critically comment on racism and social issues.
Famous Quotes (5)
1
Nobody ever heard of ugly men falling in love in a comic opera. Even the big prima donnas don't fall in love with ugly men.
2
It's no disgrace to be colored, but it is awfully inconvenient.
3
I have never been able to discover that there was anything disgraceful in being a colored man. But I have often found it inconvenient.
4
Comedy's a serious business. A serious business with only one purpose - to make people laugh.
5
I think that I possess the dubious distinction of being the only professional representative of my race.