Fats Waller, one of my husband's heroes, just before he died (1943) at the age of 39. He died of pneumonia on a train. Fats Waller plus a lovely singer named Myra Johnson in a mock catfight; what could be better? I couldn't find out much about Myra Johnson, beyond the fact (I got this from a book of my jazz-loving husband's) that she recorded with Boyd Senter and his band in 1938. She recorded two sides. That's all I could learn..
Anyway, here's one of the great jazz classics:
I couldn't love this video any more than I do. I hope that the current generation of African-Americans will rediscover this irreplaceable and revered musical heritage soon, soon, soon. Such elan, my God. Bring back the Delta blues and authentic jazz, 21st Century style!
I'm doing my part to spread the love.
In order to make music of this order of sophistication a musical education is needed. Unfortunately, no child left behind has caused many school districts to gut their music programs. African Americans who are dependent on public education, particularly in urban schools, will have a hard time learning the necessary skills.
Posted by: Clark | February 18, 2008 at 02:59 PM