Ethel Waters (oct.31,1896 - sep.1,1977) was an American blues and jazz vocalist and actress. She was born to a 12 year old mother, Louise Anderson, who had .brEthel Waters (Oct.31,1896 (1900?) - Sept.1,1977) was an American blues and jazz vocalist and actress. She frequently performed jazz, big band, rock and roll .brEthel Waters (October 31, 1896 -- September 1, 1977) was an American blues, jazz and gospel vocalist and actress. She frequently performed jazz, big band, .brEthel Waters (Oct.31,1896(1900?) - Sept.1,1977) was an American blues and jazz vocalist and actress. She frequently performed jazz, big band, rock and roll .