Performing in blackface makeup was a theatrical convention used by many entertainers at the beginning of the 20th century, having its origin in the minstrel and vaudeville show. Al Jolson was the most famous performer to wear blackface makeup when singing- he felt Working behind a blackface mask gave him a sense of freedom. I guess in a way you could call the mask, in his case, a placebo. There are just so many forms of art out there to explore, some is very interesting. Sometimes, what makes art interesting is the back story. Look up the blackface, the history behind it is actually pretty interesting!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XF6383U8xD0&feature=related