Other than the fact that she appeared in the 1947 movie Jivin' in Bebop with Dizzy Gillespie, not much else is known about the beautiful exotic dancer known as Sahji. That film, no more than a string of musical performances, presents Sahji in all of her "exotic" otherness doing a dance that reminds me very much of what "praise dancers" now do in church. Hmm ... are they the original exotic dancers?
Sahji was also known as Madeleine Jackson, and is known to have been married to musician Leroy Harris, a saxophonist with the Earl Hines Orchestra.
This collection of photos originally belonged to a Cotton Club chorus girl, reportedly a headline dancer by the name of Margot, who appeared at the club between 1933-39.
One inscription reads "To Margot, You are tops as a dancer. And as a lady, you are even higher. Best wishes for your present & future happiness. Sincerely, Madeline Sahji Jackson." Under that it says "Sahji" Cousin Madeleine.
The inscription on the last photo says "To Margo, my country cuz. Wish you would join me again in this mess. 'Best Always, Madeleine .. Sahji."
Madeleine "Sahji" Jackson ... NOT YOUR EVERYDAY COUNTRY COUSIN!
Nice photos! Ive never heard of her!
Posted by: Brandon | May 19, 2011 at 11:46 AM
Hey Brandon, thanks for your comment, but no worry - MOST PEOPLE have never heard of her. I NEVER HEARD OF HER until I saw her photos and KNEW I HAD TO HAVE THEM ON MY BLOG!
Posted by: Corey | May 19, 2011 at 01:29 PM
wow, she is amazing...
Posted by: Erotixx.wordpress.com | May 29, 2011 at 02:18 AM