Flashback to February 14

Entertainment History

1917

The Original Dixieland Jass Band records the first ever jazz record for the Victor Talking Machine Company in New York.

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The Original Dixieland Jass Band Records the First Ever Jazz Record for the Victor Talking Machine Company in New York

On February 26, 1917, history was made as the Original Dixieland Jass Band stepped into the recording studio of the Victor Talking Machine Company in New York City. Little did they know that this recording session would go on to mark the birth of an entirely new genre of music – jazz.

Jazz, a uniquely American art form, emerged in the early 20th century from the vibrant cultural melting pot of New Orleans, Louisiana. Drawing influences from African rhythms, European harmonies, and Latin American traditions, jazz quickly gained popularity among diverse audiences. It was characterized by its improvisational nature, syncopated rhythms, and lively energy.

The Victor Talking Machine Company recognized the potential of this emerging genre and saw an opportunity to capture it on record. They reached out to the Original Dixieland Jass Band, a group of young white musicians from New Orleans who had been creating buzz with their energetic live performances.

Led by Cornetist Nick LaRocca, the Original Dixieland Jass Band consisted of five members: Larry Shields on clarinet, Eddie Edwards on trombone, Henry Ragas on piano, and Tony Sbarbaro on drums. They were known for their spirited playing and infectious enthusiasm.

On that fateful day in February, the band entered the recording studio to lay down tracks for what would become their first single. The chosen songs were “Dixieland Jass Band One-Step” on the A-side and “Livery Stable Blues” on the B-side.

The session commenced, and the Victor engineers captured the lively performance of the Original Dixieland Jass Band. The band showcased their talent, improvising and showcasing their individual skills while maintaining a cohesive sound. The recording equipment of the time was limited in its ability to capture the nuances of the music, but it managed to convey the spirit and energy of the band.

Released later that year, the single became an instant hit, taking the country by storm. “Livery Stable Blues” in particular became wildly popular and is often referred to as the first jazz recording in history. It showcased the band’s distinctive sound, with its animal imitations and lively clarinet, trombone, and cornet solos.

The success of the Original Dixieland Jass Band’s recording paved the way for the popularization of jazz across the United States and beyond. The Victor Talking Machine Company capitalized on this newfound interest, releasing more jazz records and signing other jazz artists. Jazz quickly permeated the airwaves and dance halls, influencing not only the music industry but also society at large.

The impact of that February recording session continues to resonate to this day. Jazz has evolved and branched out into numerous subgenres and styles, but its roots can be traced back to that seminal moment when the Original Dixieland Jass Band brought their improvisational and energetic sound to the Victor Talking Machine Company.

As we celebrate the 104th anniversary of the event, it is important to recognize the significance of the Original Dixieland Jass Band and their pioneering efforts. Their recording forever changed the course of music history, allowing jazz to become a global phenomenon that continues to enchant and inspire music lovers worldwide.

the recording session of the Original Dixieland Jass Band for the Victor Talking Machine Company in New York on February 26, 1917, marked a turning point in the history of music. The resulting single became the catalyst for the popularization of jazz, ultimately leading to the evolution of this unique American art form.

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Today's Flashback in Entertainment History | February 14

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