A History of Jazz Podcast

Show Notes You can listen to songs from every episode on Spotify. You can follow along with the show on Twitter @jazzhistorypod. My name is Arik Devens, and you can follow me on Twitter @danieltiger, or listen to my general interest podcast, Fun Fact.

Delve into the vibrant jazz scene of 1919 with the Louisiana Five band. Learn about Murray Pilser, Harry A. Yerkes, and Wilbur Sweatman's contributions in early jazz history. Explore the success of Sweatman's hit 'Slide Kelly Slide' and the legacy of Will Marion Cook in shaping jazz music.

Dive into the fascinating journey of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band as they take jazz across the Atlantic! Discover how J. Russell Robinson stepped in after Henry Ragas’s untimely death. Hear about their tumultuous arrival in London, mixed reviews, and a surprising firing after a standing ovation. Experience their rise in Britain, from performances at the Palladium to a successful residency at Martin's. Plus, uncover the scandal that followed LaRocca and their eventual return to America. It's a lively tale of triumph and turmoil!

Delve into the fascinating world of Ford Dabney, a pivotal yet overlooked figure in early jazz history. Discover his journey from a musical upbringing in Washington, D.C., to major contributions in vaudeville and ragtime. Learn about his influential role in founding the Clef Club and his significant recordings in 1919. Explore his collaboration with the Castles during the Tango craze and how his work shaped future jazz musicians. Finishing with a look at his legacy, this story highlights the often forgotten roots of jazz.

Dive into the life of James Reese Europe, a key figure in shaping jazz history. Discover his early struggles in New York and the founding of the Clef Club, a pivotal moment for Black musicians. Learn about his groundbreaking collaboration with the dance duo Vernon and Irene Castle, which led to popular recordings. Explore his military service with the 369th Hellfighters, where he introduced jazz to European audiences. The podcast culminates in a tragic confrontation that cut his life short, but his legacy continues to resonate.

Explore the vibrant jazz scene of 1918, where historical events shaped musical innovation. Delve into Mike Bernard's ragtime fame and mythmaking, and see how Earl Fuller promoted 'hot' jazz. Discover the early integrated Savoy Quartet and compare versions of 'Darktown Strutter's Ball' for stylistic insights. Learn about Dan Kildare's tumultuous career at Ciro's, leading to a tragic end. This episode captures a pivotal moment in jazz history, filled with excitement and drama.

Explore the fascinating world of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band as they navigate the challenges of the music industry in 1918. Discover their return to Victor Records and how jazz was marketed as a novelty fad. Uncover the story behind the catchy rhythm of 'Fidgety Feet' and the era's dance craze, including the origins of the shimmy. Hear about the personal struggles of band members faced with the draft and the tragic impact of the Spanish flu on pianist Henry Ragas. It's a lively journey through early jazz history!

Explore the overlooked genius of Wilbur Sweatman, a pioneer of early jazz and vaudeville. Discover his groundbreaking mixed-race recordings and innovative performances, including his unique three-clarinet gimmick. Delve into his early life, from childhood in Brunswick to leading orchestras in St. Louis. Hear about his struggle for recognition amid segregation and the dynamics of early recording sessions. The podcast highlights Sweatman's significant, yet often uncelebrated, contributions to the 1918 jazz scene.

Dive into the vibrant jazz scene of 1917, exploring historical events and the decline of ragtime following Scott Joplin's death. Discover the early European jazz influence at Ciro's Club and the dynamic work of Wilbur Swetman, the first Black jazz recording leader. Get insights on James P. Johnson's pivotal piano rolls that bridged ragtime to jazz, and the Frisco Jazz Band's entrance into Broadway. Finally, hear about W.C. Handy's evolving views on jazz and his impactful recordings.

Discover the origins of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band and their groundbreaking 1917 recordings. Learn about Nick LaRocca's inspiring early life and Eddie Edwards's shift from violin to trombone. Dive into the stories behind hit tunes like 'Indiana' and 'Ostrich Walk,' while exploring the band's evolution in Chicago. Unravel the controversies surrounding 'Tiger Rag' and the challenges faced during studio recordings. Finally, hear about their New York breakthrough and the legal battles over their iconic tracks.