Final answer:
The music industry's discovery of black music in the early 1920s can be greatly attributed to Bert Williams, a black vaudeville performer. His pioneering work led to broader recognition of styles like blues and jazz, with artists like Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, and Bessie Smith further popularizing the genres.
Step-by-step explanation:
The music industry's discovery of black music can be attributed to the success of various African American artists in the early 1920s. A pivotal black vaudeville performer who made significant contributions to this discovery was Bert Williams. Williams, a prominent figure in vaudeville, became the first African American performer in the Ziegfeld Follies of 1910 and was a pioneer in bringing black musical styles to broader audiences. His work helped pave the way for the Harlem Renaissance, during which the distinct blues and jazz styles of African American communities became internationally recognized genres. Notable jazz artists like Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway later performed in Harlem nightclubs, such as the Cotton Club, and blues singer Bessie Smith, dubbed "The Empress of the Blues," gained notoriety for her powerful vocals and collaborations with artists like Louis Armstrong.