Song recordings After you’ve gone Childhood days Dear old Southland Everybody’s crazy ’bout the doggone blues, but I’m happy Goodbye Alexander, goodbye honey boy If you’ll come back I’m waiting for you, ‘Liza Jane I’ve got the finest man Jubilee blues Oh! Frenchy! Strut Miss Lizzie Sweet Emalina, my gal Sweet mamma (Papa’s getting mad)…
Today in History–July 10–the Library of Congress features jazz pianist Jelly Roll Morton, who died on this day in 1941. Born Ferdinand Joseph La Menthe in New Orleans, Louisiana, Morton billed himself as “Jelly Roll” while playing minstrel and vaudeville shows. In addition to jazz, Morton also played ragtime, blues and spirituals. Learn more by visiting the Today in History section, then follow the links below to…
Today in History–November 22–the Library of Congress features musical theater star Lillian Russell, who made her debut at Tony Pastor’s Theatre in New York City on this date in 1880. Performing light opera and vaudeville shows, Russell had a successful career for nearly three decades. After, she devoted much of her time to politics. Learn more…
Today in History–January 13–the Library of Congress features Sophie Tucker, born on this date in 1884 or 1886 as Sonya Kalish. Learn more about the life of this much loved entertainer by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access more resources related to Sophie Tucker and musical entertainment styles of her day. Sophie Tucker sheet music Sophie Tucker images…
Today in History–November 3–the Library of Congress features Eugene O’Neill & the Provincetown Players. On this day in 1916, the experimental Playwrights’ Theater opened its first New York season in Greenwich Village. Learn more by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access more Library resources related to Eugene O’Neill and theater. The Experimental…
Today in History–August 16–the Library of Congress features the Hippodrome Theater, which closed permanently on this day in 1939. Opened in 1905, this gigantic theater seated up to 5,200 people and was the stage for the most popular vaudeville performers of the time, including Harry Houdini. Learn more by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links…
Understanding historical context is an important element when considering why a primary source was created. The Teaching with the Library of Congress blog outlines characteristics to look for when selecting primary sources that students will be able to place in historical context. For more help providing historical context, look in the Library Teacher Guides in…
Today in History–June 23–the Library of Congress features renowned choreographer Bob Fosse, born on this day in 1927. It seems Fosse was born into the business since his father worked in vaudeville. Find out more by visiting the Today in History section, then follow the links below to access more resources about Fosse, dance, and vaudeville. Robert “Bob”…