Anderson was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1902. She began singing in church at an early age and showed great talent. She studied music at the Philadelphia Musical Academy and later at the Juilliard School in New York City. In 1925, she made her professional debut in New York City.
Anderson's career was successful from the start. She toured the United States and Europe, performing in some of the world's most prestigious concert halls. She also recorded several albums and appeared in several films.
Despite her success, Anderson faced significant racial discrimination throughout her career. She was often denied the opportunity to perform in certain venues because of her race. In 1939, she was scheduled to perform at Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., but the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), which owned the hall, refused to allow her to perform because of her race. This decision sparked a national outcry, and Anderson eventually performed a concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.
Anderson's concert at the Lincoln Memorial was a major turning point in the civil rights movement. It helped to bring national attention to the issue of racial segregation and inspired people to fight for equal rights. Anderson continued to perform throughout her life, and she became a symbol of hope and courage for African Americans.
Anderson was awarded numerous honors and awards for her work, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. She died in Portland, Oregon, in 1993.