Sister Rosetta Tharpe (1915 - 1973) was a gospel singer and guitarist who influenced many musicians, including Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, and Elvis Presley. She is known as the "Godmother of Rock 'n' Roll". She was the first great recording star of gospel music, and was among the first gospel musicians to appeal to rhythm and blues and rock and roll audiences, later being referred to as "the original soul sister".