Baby Esther

She performed regularly at nightclubs in Harlem and all over the United States in the 1920s. In her act, “Baby Esther” danced, made funny faces, rolled her eyes, and—most famously—interpolated nonsense phrases such as “Boo-Boo-Boo”, “Wha-Da-Da”, and “Doo-Doo-Doo”.

Duke Ellington

Although he is a pivotal figure in the history of jazz, he is also considered “the most significant composer of the genre”. Ellington embraced the phrase “beyond category”. He considered it a liberating principle, and referring to his music as part of the more general category of American Music.

Mamie Smith & The Jazz Hounds

Mamie Smith & The Jazz Hounds Mamie Smith & Her Jazz Hounds: Pioneers of Recorded Jazz Cincinnati, OH May 26, 1891 – September 16, 1946 Let’s turn back the clock to the early 1920s and dive into the vibrant world of Mamie Smith & Her Jazz Hounds. Their musical journey is a remarkable tale of […]

Charlie Christian

He was one of the first to produce improvised masterpieces using electrically amplified equipment. His recording career helped raise the guitar from an accompanying to a dominant solo instrument.

Bessie Smith

Bessie Smith was among the highest-paid Black performers of her time with hits like “Downhearted Blues.” The song was extremely popular and sold an estimated 800,000 copies, and propelling Smith into the blues spotlight.

John Robichaux’s Orchestra

In the vibrant tapestry of New Orleans’ rich musical history, one name stands out as a true maestro of jazz: John Edward Robichaux. Born in the heart of Louisiana, this talented drummer and bandleader left an indelible mark on the world of music, orchestrating melodies that would resonate for generations to come.

Edward “Dee Dee”Chandler

Edward “Dee Dee” Chandler is the forefather of the drumset. Chandler’s era was before a detailed investigation and history was compiled for New Orleans jazz.

Scott Joplin

Meet Scott Joplin, the maestro of merriment and the crowned king of ragtime!