I’m in the mood to hear some ragtime. (Not just because of the J. Durante thread that inspired this one.) Anyway, I wonder if you, or anyone else who happens to read this, can point me towards some names to ask for or collections to seek out. I tried Virgin Megastore last week or so, but the guy said all they had under that heading was Scott Joplin piano. I’m looking for songs that have lyrics as well; I have a vague understanding that there were such songs, but beyond that, I’m lost.
The one site I just looked at http://www.rtpress.com has some links that may be worth investigating.
The Washington Post or New York Times did a story on ragtime music within the last year that talked about a small revival of interest in the music. Web sites and Napster encouraged people to try the music. It also went into detail about some of the stars, and how the music reflected its times, particularly in racial attitudes.
The Band did at least one ragtime song, entitled “Rag Mama Rag.” It is on their album “The Band;” a worthy purchase for non-ragtime reasons.
Scott Joplin is considered to be a huge figure in ragtime music, but I’m not familiar with any of his tunes that include lyrics. He did write an opera towards the end of his career. Listen to Scott Joplin anyway!
Oop, my answer vanished into the void and is now being read by the CIA? Well, what I suggested is to get some ORIGINAL ragtime; the modern recreations never sound right. Go to http://www.tinfoil.com and the other links therein; they have original recordings (c1900–20) on CD and cassette.
One of the best bands to look for is James Reese Europe’s. I’ll be Castle Trotting and Bunny Hugging, how’s 'bout you?
Board’s acting up again, I guess.