Mechanical Music Digest  Archives
You Are Not Logged In Login/Get New Account
Please Log In. Accounts are free!
Logged In users are granted additional features including a more current version of the Archives and a simplified process for submitting articles.
Home Archives Calendar Gallery Store Links Info
MMD > Archives > July 2003 > 2003.07.27 > 05Prev  Next


Politically Incorrect Piano Rolls
By Bob Loesch

Hello, Merna.  I have a small collection of what might be called
politically incorrect piano and organ (58-note) rolls, but we must
remember that in the early 1900s, it was quite permissible to use
terms which would be racially insensitive today.  I have never heard of
Mr. Windle, but I do have one roll (a recut, which is sadly in storage
so I can't look it up), which is supposed to be the KKK's 'anthem'.

There are many collectors of piano rolls, sheet music, and early
records of songs known as 'coon songs', because of their subject
matter.  I have rolls of 'Darktown Strutters Ball', 'The Nigger's
Birthday', 'Rufus on Parade', and many others.  I collect them because
they are _good music,_ not because of any racist feelings or hurtful
words.  If the titles were changed to something more appropriate today,
they would probably be more widely listened to.

I hope this email doesn't upset or offend!  That is _not_ my intention!

Regards,
Bob Loesch
Lakeport, California, USA


(Message sent Sun 27 Jul 2003, 05:41:54 GMT, from time zone GMT-0700.)

Key Words in Subject:  Incorrect, Piano, Politically, Rolls

Home    Archives    Calendar    Gallery    Store    Links    Info   


Enter text below to search the MMD Website with Google



CONTACT FORM: Click HERE to write to the editor, or to post a message about Mechanical Musical Instruments to the MMD

Unless otherwise noted, all opinions are those of the individual authors and may not represent those of the editors. Compilation copyright 1995-2024 by Jody Kravitz.

Please read our Republication Policy before copying information from or creating links to this web site.

Click HERE to contact the webmaster regarding problems with the website.

Please support publication of the MMD by donating online

Please Support Publication of the MMD with your Generous Donation

Pay via PayPal

No PayPal account required

                                     
Translate This Page