Four-time Grammy-winning artist Lizzo is set to electrify the screen as she takes on the role of Rock ‘n’ Roll legend Rosetta Tharpe in an upcoming biopic. This exciting project promises to showcase not only Lizzo’s incredible talent but also the profound impact Tharpe had on the music industry.
It’s about time we shine a spotlight on Rosetta Tharpe, the groundbreaking gospel singer who transcended traditional gospel music to become an iconic figure in the realms of Rock ‘n’ Roll and R&B. This long-awaited biographical endeavor, produced by Amazon MGM Studios, features Lizzo, known for her dynamic performances in films like Hustlers, taking center stage as she embodies Rosetta’s spirit through her electrifying guitar skills.
Not only is Lizzo starring in this pivotal film, but she is also stepping into a producer role alongside Kevin Beisler, Nina Yang Bongiovi of Significant Productions, and Forest Whitaker. The screenplay, crafted by talented writers Natalie Chaidez (The Flight Attendant, Queen of the South) and Kwynn Perry (Tigerbelles, The Burned Photo), will delve deeply into the life and legacy of Rosetta Tharpe, who is often heralded as the mother of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Her revolutionary influence paved the way for legendary artists such as Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash, inspiring countless musicians to embrace their craft with passion and authenticity.
The narrative of Lizzo’s portrayal of Rosetta is inspired by real events, aiming to capture a transformative era in Tharpe’s life. The film promises to explore themes of groundbreaking innovation, defiant passion, and secret love. As she breaks through musical barriers with her signature guitar sound, Rosetta grapples with societal constraints and her concealed love for another woman, ultimately culminating in a historic performance that transformed a wedding into an unforgettable concert—the first-ever stadium show.
During the 1930s and 1940s, Sister Rosetta Tharpe gained immense popularity with her unique gospel recordings, which seamlessly merged heartfelt hymns with lively electric guitar riffs. She was among the pioneers to adopt heavy distortion in her sound, a technique that continues to influence contemporary artists today. Tharpe’s contributions played a significant role in the evolution of British blues in the 1960s, and her legendary 1964 tour with Muddy Waters remains a revered moment in music history, celebrated by artists like Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Keith Richards.
Rosetta Tharpe was known for embracing all performance venues, from intimate train station platforms to vibrant nightclubs and grand concert halls. To truly appreciate her groundbreaking sound, listeners should explore tracks like “Up About My Head,” “Didn’t It Rain,” “Shout Sister Shout,” “Rock Me,” and “The Devil Has Thrown Him Down.” Although Sister Rosetta Tharpe passed away in 1973, her musical legacy continues to resonate, with Diggers Factory recently releasing a new compilation of her work on February 28, 2025, titled “Godmother of Rock ‘N’ Roll.”
What are your thoughts on Lizzo taking on the role of Rosetta Tharpe in the Amazon MGM Studios film Rosetta? We invite you to share your opinions in the comments section below.
Meet the Author: Steve Seigh
