The early years
There is no clear answer as to who Mahalia Jackson's first piano accompanist was. Although various pianists are mentioned who worked with her at different times in her career, there is no clear indication as to who her very first accompanist was. The following pianists played for Mahalia Jackson before Midres Falls' time:
Pearl Robinson
Robinson is mentioned as the piano accompanist for the youth choir in which Mahalia sang. However, it remains unclear whether Pearl Robinson also accompanied Mahalia as a soloist.
Rosalie McKenney
On October 3, 1946, Mahalia Jackson and her accompanist Rosalie McKenny recorded “(I'm Going to) Wait until My Change Comes,” “I'm Going to Tell God,” “I Want to Rest,” and “He Knows My Heart” for the Lalble APOLLO label.
Fletcher Robinson
Fletcher Robinson It is mentioned that Fletcher Robinson, a member of Jackson's Sunday school, encouraged her to sing as a soloist in church. However, it is not explicitly stated whether he was also her piano accompanist.
Estelle Allen
Estelle Allen is mentioned as Mahalia's pianist in the late 1930s. She accompanied Mahalia on her first recordings for Decca Records in 1937.
Prince Johnson (Johnson Singers)
During Mahalia's time with the Johnson Singers in the 1930s, Prince Johnson played piano in the group. Although he is not explicitly referred to as her piano accompanist, it is likely that he took on this role during their performances together and thus also accompanied Mahalia as a soloist.