The film takes place in Chicago in 1927. At this time, racial prejudice still existed, and the color of a person's skin was of great importance. Ma Rainey is a popular blues star who is trying to record a new record at one of the recording studios. But in the team there are people who are not satisfied with the routine. Livi, being a trumpet player, wants to go to the front rows. But Ma Rainey, who has a complex character, intends to put everything in its place. White producers see audience preferences differently. They are even able to take the rights to the work of the blues performer. Managers forbid Livi to perform her songs. They push the black guy in, showing him just a worker. Holding a grudge, the trumpeter decides to team up with Ma in order to achieve a common goal - to take his music and win a place of honor on the musical Olympus ...