Blind Skeleton's Three Tune Tuesday

Wax Cylinders

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000

This week on Four Tune Tuesday, we’re going old. Very old. Rather than our usual today-in-history framing, we’re taking a detour into the cylinder era — the format that preceded the 78rpm disc entirely, and the one that gave birth to the commercial recording industry in the first place. We open in 1891 with what is, as best as we can determine, the oldest cylinder in the UCSB Cylinder Audio Archive: a cornet solo by D.B. Dana, accompanied at the piano by bandleader Edward Issler, performing the “Cujus Animam” from Rossini’s Stabat Mater — recorded live, by hand, into a phonograph horn, with no possibility of duplication. Our second cylinder is a vocal piece from the same year, J.W. Myers singing “Bell Buoy” for the North American Phonograph Company — not a record label, but the chaotic network of thirty-three regional companies through which Edison tried, and ultimately failed, to dominate the nascent industry. From there, we turn to the violin — and to one of the more quietly fascinating chapters in recording history. Charles D’Almaine was the first person ever to record with a Stroh violin, an instrument invented in 1899 specifically to solve the problem that the standard violin posed for acoustic recording. We hear him first in 1899, before the Stroh, on a conventional violin in a solo arrangement of the “Miserere” from Verdi’s Il Trovatore — and then in 1904, after, on a joyful fiddle medley that includes, somewhere in the middle, a reel he apparently named after himself.

Stroh Violin

[(https://ids.si.edu/ids/deliveryService?id=NMAH-92-13660&max=600)](https://ids.si.edu/ids/deliveryService?id=NMAH-92-13660&max=600)

Easter and Passover

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 13:42:47 +0000

Spring arrives with music this week on Three Tune Tuesday, as we mark the convergence of Easter and Passover with three recordings that span the full range of what this season sounded like on early shellac. We open with a detour into pure coincidence — Vessella’s Italian Band recorded the “Blushing Maiden March” on this very date in 1911, a bright and breezy piece of light entertainment from one of Victor’s most beloved concert bands, the resident ensemble of Atlantic City’s famous Steel Pier. From there we turn to the sacred, with tenor Frederic Freemantel’s “Resurrection,” a 12-inch Red Seal recording of Oliver Holden’s great hymn tune “Coronation” — a melody so enduring it is considered the oldest American hymn tune still in continuous use, here given the full solemnity of Victor’s prestige format. We close on the other side of spring’s spiritual calendar, with Cantor Mordechai Hershman’s deeply moving “K’shimcho,” a Passover prayer recorded with Nathaniel Shilkret conducting, in which one of the golden age of chazzanut’s finest voices brings an ancient liturgical text into the modern world of recorded sound.

Inner Peace

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 14:11:32 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, the theme is Inner Peace — inspired by a vision over the weekend. We open with a Today in History pick: on this very date in 1907, Prince’s Military Band recorded The Dream of the Rarebit Fiend for Columbia Records, a chaotic, lurching musical portrait of the nightmare state that reminds us what peace is not. From there we move to something quieter — the Revillon Trio’s 1915 instrumental recording of Somewhere a Voice Is Calling, a melody written by Arthur F. Tate on holiday in Whitby, England, in which the voice of the title goes unheard and the listener is left simply waiting, still, in the dusk. We close with one of the most hard-won declarations of peace in the entire hymn tradition: It Is Well With My Soul, recorded in 1906 by William F. Hooley and the Handel Mixed Quartet, the text written by Horatio Spafford as his ship crossed the spot in the Atlantic where his four daughters had drowned. Three recordings, three different ways of arriving at the same place — because inner peace, it turns out, is never simply given. It has to be found.

Lyrics

Somewhere a Voice is Calling

Dusk and the shadows falling O’er land and sea; Somewhere a voice is calling Calling for me

Night and the stars are gleaming Tender and true; Dearest, my heart is dreaming Dreaming of you

Night and the stars are gleaming Tender and true; Dearest, my heart is dreaming Dreaming of you

It is Well With my Soul

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul. Refrain: It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul. Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul. My sin—oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!— My sin, not in part but the whole, Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul! For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live: If Jordan above me shall roll, No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul. But, Lord, ’tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait, The sky, not the grave, is our goal; Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord! Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul! And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll; The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, Even so, it is well with my soul.

The Follies of War

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:09:21 +0000

March 24, 1918: German forces crossed the Somme during Operation Michael, Ludendorff’s great spring offensive — the war machine’s last confident lunge toward a victory that never came. In 2026, with the Trump administration dismantling alliances built on the bones of two world wars, treating the consequences of war as someone else’s problem, and marching forward with the kind of certainty that history tends to punish, it felt like a good week to reach back to the era when people were still trying to make sense of what industrialized war actually meant — and some of them were brave enough to say so. “Peter Piper” — Arthur Pryor’s Band (Victor, 1905) It sounds like a march — all brass and forward momentum and purpose. But “Peter Piper” is built on a nursery rhyme tongue-twister, a piece of music that moves with great confidence toward absolutely nothing. Arthur Pryor was the second most famous bandleader in America after Sousa, and when his band played, people stood up straight. On the anniversary of the Somme crossing, it seemed like the right way to open: all that certainty, all that momentum, built entirely on nonsense. “Stay Down Here Where You Belong” — Henry Burr (Victor, 1915) Irving Berlin wrote this in 1915, before America entered the war and before he understood which way the wind was blowing. The conceit is simple and devastating: the Devil urges his son to stay in Hell rather than venture up to the surface, because up there they’re making butchers out of brothers, and there’s more hell above ground than below. Henry Burr recorded it with the quiet conviction of a man who meant it. Within two years, America was at war, Berlin had moved on to writing songs for the troops, and this one was quietly shelved. It is the voice that said don’t go — before the drums got loud enough that nobody could hear it anymore. “Oh! It’s a Lovely War” — Courtland & Jeffries (1918) By 1918, four years in, the Somme and Verdun behind them and millions dead, two music hall performers called Courtland & Jeffries were on stage insisting that everything was absolutely fine. Every verse of this song catalogs the miseries of army life — the mud, the tinned jam, the absurdity of military hierarchy — and every verse ends with the chorus cheerfully declaring it all perfectly wonderful. It is one of the only songs of the era that got away with mocking the war while it was still being fought, by the simple trick of never technically admitting that’s what it was doing. The humor is the gap between what is said and what is meant. In 1918, that gap was the width of the Western Front.

St. Patrick's Day

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 14:22:54 +0000

St. Patrick’s Day

This week, Boneapart and Yulia talk about St. Patrick’s Day and share some songs celebrating the emerald isle.

Mother Machree

There’s a spot in my heart which no colleen may own there’s a depth in my soul never sounded or known There’s a place in my mem’ry my heart that you fill no other can take it no one ever will

CHORUS

Oh I love the dear silver that shines in your hair and the brow that’s all furrowed and wrinkled with care I kiss the dear fingers so toil worn for me Oh God bless you and keep you Mother Machree

Every sorrow or cure in the dear days gone by was made bright by the light by the smile in your eye like a candle the burns in the window at night you fond love has cheered my and guided me right.

The Wearing of the Green

O Paddy dear, and did you hear the news that’s going round? The Shamrock is forbid, by laws, to grow on Irish ground No more St. Patrick’s day we’ll keep, his colour last be seen For, there’s a bloody law agin the Wearing of the Green.

Oh! I met with Napper Tandy, and he took me by the hand, And he says; How is Poor Auld Ireland, and does she stand? She’s the most distressed Country that ever I have seen For, they are hanging men and women for the Wearing of the Green.

And since the colour we must wear, is England’s cruel red, Auld Ireland’s sons will ne’er forget the blood that they have shed. Then take the Shamrock from your hat, and cast it on the sod It will take root, and flourish still, tho’ under foot ’tis trod.

When the law can stop the blades of grass from growing as they grow. And when the leaves, in Summer time, their verdure does not show. Then, I will change the colour I wearin’ my cabbeen But, till that day, please God ! I’ll stick to the Wearing of the Green.

But if, at last, her colours should be torn from Ireland’s heart Her sons, with shame and sorrow, from the dear old soil will part I’ve heard whispers of a Country that lies far beyond sea, Where rich and poor stand equal, in the light of Freedom’s day.

O Erin! must we leave you driven by the tyrant’s hand Must we ask a Mother’s blessing, in a strange but happy land Where the cruel Cross of England’s thraldom never to be seen But where, thank God! we’ll live and die, still Wearing of the Green.

Ireland Must be Heaven, for my Mother Came From There

I’ve often heard my daddy speak of Ireland’s lakes and dells, The place must be like Heaven, if it’s half like what he tells; There’s roses fair and shamrocks there, and laughing waters flow; I have never seen that Isle of Green, But there’s one thing sure I know.

Ireland must be Heaven, for an angel came from there, I never knew a living soul, one half as sweet or fair, For her eyes are like the star light, And the white clouds match her hair, Sure Ireland Must be Heaven, For My Mother Came From There.

I’ve pictured in my fondest dreams old Ireland’s vales and rills, I see a stairway to the sky, formed by her verdant hills; Each wave that’s in the ocean blue just loves to hug the shore, So if Ireland isn’t Heaven, then sure, It must be right next door.

The Blues

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:55:35 +0000

This week Yulia and Boneapart talk, not sing, The Blues. We discuss some history and share two very fantastic Blues songs that come from different backgrounds.

Of course, we also play a song “Released on this Date In History.”

Songs

Irish Hearts

Artist: Fred Van Eps (banjo solo, with orchestra)
Composer: Henry Frantzen
Arranger: Everett J. Evans
Recorded: March 10, 1916, New York
Label: Columbia, catalog number A2283
Matrix: 46487, Take 00
Format: 10-inch disc
Other title: “March and Two-Step”
Flip side: “Pearl of the Harem” (Harry P. Guy / Fred Van Eps), same session

Anticipatin’ Blues

Southern Negro Quartette

Recorded June 30, 1921, New York
Columbia A3444, Matrix 79920, Take 4
Flip side: “I’m Wild About Moonshine” (Turner Layton / Henry Creamer)
Composer: Billy James / Jean Harmon
Format: Male vocal quartet, unaccompanied

Lyrics

I’ve been waiting ever so long, watching and praying for you, for you. Say if you know that my love is gone. What are you going to do? Don’t keep me worrying you. I’m tired of being alone. You hear me stating, I’m tired of waiting. You’d better worry back home, back home, of God’s laws. Tired of waiting, gonna steal the pain. It’s gonna flow, flow, flow. I’m getting worried, I’m starting to hurry. Hearing of my words, every so low, too low, too low. But what you’re telling me, I always thought that. I’ve been waiting ever so long, watching and praying for you, for you. Say if you know that my love is gone. What are you going to do? Don’t keep me worrying you. I’m tired of waiting, gonna steal the pain. You hear me stating, I’m tired of waiting. I’m tired of waiting, gonna steal the pain. You hear me stating, I’m tired of waiting. I’m tired of waiting, gonna steal the pain. You hear me stating, I’m tired of waiting. And there’s a pain now, flow, flow, flow, flow, flow. Someday you’ll regret what you’ve done. You’ll worry back, you’re my side, my side. But you’ll find another someone, and blame on me as his bride. Don’t keep me stalling around, waiting for what I don’t get. Oh how I’m sighing, say that you’re trying. So they can make me forget, forget. I’ve got no words. I don’t wait, sing those damn tears. The pain is so blue, blue, blue. I’m getting worried, it’s better to hurry, dear. Stop my burning with the blue, blue, blue. Those are what you tell me, always thought sad. And there’s a pain now of fifty percent. The others ain’t done. And there’s a pain now of fifty percent. The others ain’t done. The pain is so blue, blue, blue. I’m getting worried, it’s better to hurry, dear. Stop my burning with the blue, blue, blue. Oh how I’m sighing, say that you’re trying. So they can make me forget, forget. I’m getting worried, it’s better to hurry, dear. Stop my burning with the blue, blue, blue. Lose, lose, lose, lose, lose When someone does me wrong I always face down I’ve got the size of a thumb, no, why oh reason I’ve got the size of a ring and just the fate ain’t Lose, lose, lose, lose, lose Don’t be rich, it ain’t on trick I will join your life and I will kill you quick I’ve got the size of a ring and just the fate ain’t Lose, lose, lose, lose, lose, lose Some loooooose

Crazy Blues

Recording details:

Artist: Mamie Smith & Her Jazz Hounds
Recorded: August 10, 1920, OKeh Records, New York
Released: November 1920 on OKeh 4169
Matrix/Take: S-7529, take C
Flip side: “It’s Right Here for You”
Composer: Perry Bradford (originally published as “Harlem Blues,” itself adapted from even earlier material)

Lyrics

I can’t sleep at night I can’t eat a bite ‘Cause the man I love He don’t treat me right

He makes me feel so blue I don’t know what to do Sometime I sit and sigh And then begin to cry ’Cause my best friend Said his last goodbye

There’s a change in the ocean Change in the deep blue sea, my baby I’ll tell you folks, there ain’t no change in me My love for that man will always be

Now I can read his letters I sure can’t read his mind I thought he’s lovin’ me He’s leavin’ all the time Now I see my poor love was blind

Now I got the crazy blues Since my baby went away I ain’t got no time to lose I must find him today You might also like Blue Yodel No. 1 (T for Texas) Jimmie Rodgers Believer Imagine Dragons Gimme a Pigfoot and a Bottle of Beer Bessie Smith Now the doctor’s gonna do all that he can But what you’re gonna need is an undertaker man I ain’t had nothin’ but bad news Now I got the crazy blues

Now I can read his letters I sure can’t read his mind I thought he’s lovin’ me He’s leavin’ all the time Now I see my poor love was blind

I went to the railroad Hang my head on the track Thought about my daddy I gladly snatched it back Now my babe’s gone And gave me the sack

Now I’ve got the crazy blues Since my baby went away I ain’t had no time to lose I must find him today

I’m gonna do like a Chinaman Go and get some hop Get myself a gun, and shoot myself a cop I ain’t had nothin’ but bad news Now I’ve got the crazy blues

Fuck Trump

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 14:20:01 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, Boneapart and Yulia open with a piece of music history: on this day in 1916, Swedish tenor Aage Wang-Holm stepped into a New York recording studio to record a tender song of longing for home, sung in his native language for the millions of Scandinavian immigrants who made up a largely invisible audience for the early phonograph industry. Then the episode turns to its theme – freedom versus authoritarianism – beginning with Arthur Pryor’s Band and their 1904 march commemorating the Boston Tea Party, a moment of defiance against an empire that had decided the colonies existed to serve the crown rather than themselves. The episode closes with Reinald Werrenrath, one of the most recorded voices of his era, singing “Freedom for All Forever” – a WWI rallying cry built around a phrase chosen by the American public in a nationwide wartime slogan contest, and written by a soldier-songwriter then serving in the Canadian Engineers. Recorded in March 1918 with the outcome of the war still uncertain, it was a declaration that some things are worth fighting for. A century later, we’re still having that argument.

Egalite

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 06:40:19 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, Boneapart and Yulia explore the theme of Égalité — equality — through three recordings from the acoustic era. We open with a "This Day in History" spin: the All Star Trio's rollicking fox trot medley "You Ain't Heard Nothing Yet," recorded by Victor Arden, George Hamilton Green, and F. Wheeler Wadsworth in New York City on this very date in 1920. Then we turn to the theme, beginning with the Manhattan Harmony Four's stirring 1923 recording of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" — the Black National Anthem, written by James Weldon Johnson and his brother Rosamond, and pressed on Black Swan Records, the pioneering Harlem-based label founded by Harry Pace as an act of racial pride and cultural self-determination. We close with Emile Van Bosch, a Belgian-born operatic baritone, delivering a thunderous Dutch-language performance of De Internationale — recorded in Berlin in August 1925, just as the tensions that would define the coming decades were beginning to gather. Three songs, three movements, one enduring question: what does it mean to demand a more equal world?

Six Song Sunday

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 11:25:21 +0000

Coinciding with The Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville discovering that their theatre was actually opened in 1902, not 1903, Yulia and Boneapart visited the theatre and recorded a special, one-off, Three Tune Tuesday - named "Six Song Sunday" - in the hotel room the night before! All songs were recorded in 1902!

Fraternite

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 03:56:32 +0000

In this week's episode, Boneapart and Yulia continue their Liberty, Equality, Fraternity series with a look at Fraternité — brotherhood, solidarity, and standing together — themes that feel as urgent today as they did a century ago. We open with a "today in music history" moment: Marcel Journet's rich bass voice bringing the Porter's Song from Flotow's opera Martha to life in a 1905 Victor recording. Then we turn to our theme, starting with a stirring 1922 brass band march simply — and perfectly — titled "Fraternity," performed by the St. Hilda Prize Band, a group of coal miners from South Shields who happened to be among the finest musicians in Britain. We close with "Hold the Fort," recorded in 1914 by the Chautauqua Preachers' Quartette — a gospel hymn born from a Civil War battle cry that found new life as a labor movement anthem. Three songs, three stories, one enduring message: we're stronger together. Pull up a chair, pour yourself something warm, and join us.

Liberte

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 10:59:02 +0000

In this week's episode, Boneapart and Yulia both get ready to run through a wall after a listen to an early recording of Patrick Henry's famous (possibily anachronistic) Give me Liberty speech. They also listen to a couple other Liberte inspired runes and get all sorts of riled up.

Imbolc

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 03:59:45 +0000

On this Imbolc-themed Three Tune Tuesday, Boneapart and Yulia spin three pre-1926 gems: a cheeky hospital flirtation in Billy Murray's "Good-night, Nurse" (1913), the hopeful robin-call of Charlotte Kirwan's "When the Robins Nest Again" (1913), and Irving Berlin's tender confession "Tell Her in the Springtime" (1924). Amid crackly grooves and seasonal candlelight, they explore rebirth, from personal healing to nature's first whispers

Self Care

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:01:02 +0000

The world today sucks. So do fascists. It's important to remember that fighting them also requires Self Care. In this episode we try for some levity as a method of self care.

Its Electric

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 17:53:38 +0000

1925 was the year that "electric recording", or "orthophonic" records, were designed, greatly enhancing the sound of recorded music. This week Yulia and Boneapart discuss what made electric recording such a game changer and provide examples of just how much of an improvement over previous "acoustic" recording it made.

Looking Forward

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 07:14:39 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we’re looking forward—not with naïve optimism, but with determination. Through a 1914 recording of Danse macabre, the unsettling call of Your King and Country Want You, and the resolute stance of We’ll Never Let the Old Flag Fall, we explore how resolve survives the rise of authoritarianism—and how easily it can be misused. These songs come from a moment when the world stood on the edge of catastrophe, yet they still speak to endurance, awareness, and the refusal to surrender one’s values. This isn’t about cheering for power or glory; it’s about recognizing the voices that try to claim us, remembering that no regime lasts forever, and choosing—quietly, stubbornly—to keep looking ahead.

Peace

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 12:20:02 +0000

Peace opens the 2026 season of Three Tune Tuesday by tracing how the idea of peace sounds when it’s assumed, hoped for, and finally begged for. We begin with a carefree 1913 duet recorded on this very day in history—light, romantic, and blissfully unaware of the catastrophe to come—before moving into two post–World War I songs that reflect a world trying to steady itself after profound loss. From ringing bells to a grieving father’s plea to stop singing about war altogether, this episode listens closely to how music carries exhaustion, hope, and quiet resolve across a decade forever changed.

New Years

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 03:55:48 +0000

New Year’s has a funny way of sneaking up on us. This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we slip into the quiet spaces between resolutions and reminiscence with three early recordings that circle home, goodbyes, and the people we carry forward with us. From ivy-clad nostalgia, to a polite-but-suggestive farewell at the window, to a solemn solo take on Auld Lang Syne, this 45-minute episode skips the noise and leans into reflection. No countdown. No fireworks. Just a moment to look back—before stepping ahead.

Yule

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 16:20:50 +0000

This week Boneapart and Yulia discuss Yule, it's origins, and it's place in society. Oh, and they play songs to celebrate it, too.

Hanukkah

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 07:15:49 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we explore Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, through early 20th-century recordings preserved by the Library of Congress. Rather than modern holiday songs, this episode listens to the prayers and sacred music that would have surrounded Hanukkah a hundred years ago — voices of continuity, resilience, and quiet faith. Along the way, we talk history, pronunciation, and even count out the Hanukkah candles, letting the music and conversation illuminate what the holiday has meant across generations. It’s a reflective episode about persistence, memory, and light that endures longer than expected.

Kwanzaa

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:01:02 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, Boneapart has a birthday with a lighthearted nod to the passage of time before shifting into a thoughtful, Kwanzaa-season exploration of two remarkable early spiritual recordings. After the celebratory 1911 Birthday Serenade, the episode moves into Marian Anderson’s 1923 performance of Deep River, a piece whose themes of faith, unity, and shared purpose resonate with several principles of Kwanzaa. The journey continues with the 1902 Dinwiddie Colored Quartet rendition of Steal Away, an intimate and historically rich glimpse into the spiritual tradition’s roots. Together, the selections form a quietly powerful reflection on resilience, community, and the ways music carries meaning across generations.

Thanksgiving

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 06:58:47 +0000

It's Thanksgiving in December! Come join Yulia and Boneapart as they spend this episode talking turkey!

Mythology

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 01:40:02 +0000

In this week’s episode of Three Tune Tuesday, we dive into the realm of myth—where gods, spirits, and mortals blur together in music that’s anything but ordinary. Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld turns divine tragedy into biting satire, poking fun at power and pretension through a Parisian can-can. Schubert’s Erlkönig pulls us into the dark woods of folklore, where whispers in the wind may be more than they seem. And Wagner’s Magic Fire Scene ignites the heavens themselves, capturing the moment a god’s compassion reshapes destiny. Three visions of myth—comic, tragic, and cosmic—each revealing a different truth about what it means to be human.

Veterans Day, Remembrance Day, and Armistice Day

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 01:41:02 +0000

This week we're honouring our Veterans from many countries, with songs celebrating the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

The Universe

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 15:01:03 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday we go a little cosmic with “The Universe,” tracing a quiet arc from wonder to reach to trust. We open with “Underneath the Stars” (1915), a secular nocturne that lingers on night air and distant light—humankind gazing up and asking big questions. Then we lift off with “Come, Josephine, in My Flying Machine” (1910/11), the giddy early-aviation fantasy where romance and technology climb skyward together. We land with “Whispering Hope,” the enduring parlor hymn that softens the room and lets us place a little faith in the order of things. Three sides, one journey—from looking at the stars, to reaching for them, to listening for their answer.

Halloween Special

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:20:39 +0000

This week we celebrate Halloween with a guest! Cousin Gustav Femur joins Boneapart for a celebration of all things spooky.

Bravery

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:28:46 +0000

Dedicated to the #nokings movement. Bravery.

Songs of Protest - Let Freedom Ring

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 01:30:02 +0000

In this week’s Three Tune Tuesday, we explore the thin line between patriotism and protest — those moments when loyalty to one’s country means daring to question it. Long before protest songs filled coffeehouses and picket lines, defiance lived in the guise of anthems and ballads. From The Battle Cry of Freedom’s rally for liberty, to The Minstrel Boy’s quiet defiance through art, to My Country ’Tis of Thee, a hymn reclaimed again and again by voices demanding America live up to its promise, these recordings remind us that resistance doesn’t always shout. Sometimes, it sings in harmony.

Moonlight

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 01:30:02 +0000

This week, Blind Skeleton lifts a glass to the full moon—and to love that’s weathered a few of them. On this Supermoon evening, we trace how the moonlight wove itself into the music of the early 1900s: from the dreamy hush of Neil Moret’s “Moonlight Serenade” to the warm harmonies of “By the Light of the Silvery Moon”, and finally to the joyous barn-dance energy of Arthur Pryor’s “Shine On, Harvest Moon”.

National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 01:31:02 +0000

National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

Renaissance

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 22:05:42 +0000

This week’s Three Tune Tuesday takes its cue from a day that began at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, detoured through a kilted stroll, and ended with an Oktoberfest stein. Our theme follows that same arc: we open with a Renaissance court dance, the Gagliarda, brought to life by Toscanini and La Scala; we leap to Scotland with Jules Levy’s sparkling cornet solo on The Blue Bells of Scotland, a nod to the tartan I wore; and we close with Geraldine Farrar’s 1912 recording of Wonnevoller Mai, o komm herbei, a German song that toasts both springtime joy and beer-hall cheer. From Renaissance leaps to Scottish brass to German song, it’s a journey across time, place, and pint glasses.

Justice in the Court of Song

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 23:43:21 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we step into the witness box for “Justice in the Court of Song.” From Vernon Dalhart’s mournful The Prisoner’s Song to Billy Murray’s cheeky Prohibition jab How Are You Goin’ to Wet Your Whistle?, and Fred Hillebrand’s sly social satire Ain’t We Got Fun, these records remind us that music has always doubled as testimony, protest, and cross-examination. Join Boneapart and Yulia as they explore how early 1920s hits laughed at the law, mourned its judgments, and poked holes in society’s supposed order.

Boneaparts Favourites

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 02:19:46 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, Boneapart shares three of his all-time favorite records: the exotic fox trot “Egyptland” by the Six Brown Brothers, the barnyard mayhem of “Livery Stable Blues” by the Original Dixieland Jass Band, and the thunderous “Anvil Chorus” from Verdi’s Il Trovatore, performed by the New York Light Opera Company. Somehow, Suzanne and Boneapart spin a full hour of stories, history, and banter out of just these three tracks—proof that even the smallest playlist can open the door to big conversations about the birth of jazz, the rise of the saxophone, and opera’s unlikely place on early 78s.

Labour Day

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 11:00:02 +0000

To mark Labour Day, we trace a line from quiet graft to collective thunder: Stanley Kirkby’s “The Farmer’s Boy” (1912, Beka-Grand-Record) opens with rural work ethic and upward hope; Alan Turner’s “The Village Blacksmith” (Victor) hammers out craft pride and debtless independence; and Chaliapin’s “Dubinushka” (HMV DA 621, 1924) lifts a hauling chant into a rallying cry. In our unscripted meander we dip into the holiday’s origins, swap label lore (Beka’s Berlin–London pipeline, Victor quirks, HMV’s red-label sheen), and let three sides carry the week from sweat and skill to solidarity.

International Relations

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 03:13:37 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we’re taking a trip across borders with an “International Relations” theme — but not the kind fought with guns and flags. Instead, we follow how early 20th-century popular music imagined, borrowed, and sometimes outright distorted the sounds of “foreign” places. From the faux-exotic fox-trot of Hindustan (1918), to the heartfelt Latin American cry of Ay, Ay, Ay (1920), to the global journey of La Paloma (1902) — one of the first true international pop songs — we explore how music both connected cultures and flattened them into stereotypes. It’s a story of whitewashing, longing, and cross-cultural love, told through three spins of the shellac.

Music we Learned from Cartoons

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:00:02 +0000

This week’s Three Tune Tuesday isn’t about concert halls or high culture. It’s about the tunes we first met through Bugs Bunny in drag, Elmer Fudd in a horned helmet, and Daffy Duck pounding a piano. Music we learned from cartoons.

Non Sousa Marches

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 11:01:02 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we’re marching to a different beat — and it’s definitely not Sousa’s. We’ve lined up three bold, cheeky, and slightly irreverent marches that trade rigid patriotism for a wink and a grin. From the circus-crazed chaos of Entry of the Gladiators, to the clapping, stomping revelry of Radetzky March, and finally the sly, end-of-the-parade strut of The Gladiator’s Farewell, these tunes prove that a march doesn’t have to salute the regime — sometimes it can just laugh in time to the music.

Sousa Marches

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 06:24:58 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we dive into the world of Sousa marches — not just as music, but as cultural artifacts. From the bold nationalism of The Stars and Stripes Forever to the disciplined dignity of Semper Fidelis, and finally to the unexpectedly comedic afterlife of The Liberty Bell, we explore what marches were meant to do, who they were meant to move, and how their meanings have shifted over time. It's a journey through patriotism, power, and the strange ways symbols evolve — all in three tunes.

Disobedient Women

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 03:07:22 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we tip our hats (and rattle some cages) with a theme that’s long overdue: Disobedient Women. From flappers and vaudeville queens to blues legends who lived out loud, we spin three songs that chart a quiet revolution—women stepping out, speaking up, and refusing to be small. You’ll hear about Rebecca, who came back from Mecca with a scandalous new spirit; Eva Tanguay, who just flat-out didn’t care; and Ma Rainey, who shattered every mold with a song too bold for her time. It’s satire, song, and side-eye for the patriarchy—and we’re not sorry.

Outsiders

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 10:49:02 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we turn our ear to the outsiders — the wanderers, the exiled, and the forgotten. From a lonesome American drifter to a Siberian prisoner and a mother mourning her lost son, these early recordings echo with the voices of those who don’t quite belong. Whether cast out, worn down, or simply left behind, each song carries the weight of life on the margins. Join us for three vintage tracks that ask: who gets to belong, and who gets left out in the cold?

Rebellious Laughter

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 02:54:11 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we celebrate Rebellious Laughter — the kind that exposes ego, hypocrisy, and the absurdity of social masks. Our three tunes come from the early 1900s, but their targets feel timeless. First up, “I Love Me (I’m Wild About Myself)” is a vanity-fueled romp that skewers self-obsession with a wink and a waltz. Then, Bert Williams delivers “Nobody”, a quietly brilliant satire about being forgotten, ignored, and expected to keep smiling — a song as relevant now as it was in 1906. We close with “He Goes to Church on Sunday”, Billy Murray’s cheerful takedown of moral hypocrisy, where showing up in a pew is enough to excuse a week of bad behavior. Together, these songs remind us that joy can be a form of resistance — especially when it calls out the nonsense with a grin.

Workers Songs

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 16:24:02 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we’re rolling up our sleeves and diving into songs of sweat, steel, and solidarity. From the pounding drills of Irish railroad workers, to the rousing toasts of weary students, to the thunderous celebration at the forge, these tunes remind us that hard work is a universal rhythm. Whether it’s toil for wages or the shared struggles of daily life, today’s set spans borders and centuries—but every song rings with the sounds of labor and perseverance.

Freedom, eh?

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 11:00:02 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we celebrate freedom with three pre-1925 gems. “The Canadian Guns” brings a blast of patriotic pride, echoing Canada’s military legacy. “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” captures everyday liberty through baseball’s simple joy. And “Canadian Capers,” a jaunty foxtrot, dances us into the upbeat spirit of postwar freedom. From marching bands to jazz bands, it's a brisk stroll through North American liberty in sound.

June 24 Songs that were Co opted

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 12:20:04 +0000

In this episode of Three Tune Tuesday, we dive into songs that didn’t mean the way we mean them today. Each tune started with a clear intent—mockery, freedom, defiance—and then history took the wheel. “Yankee Doodle” was a British joke that became an American anthem. “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” was a coded cry for liberation, now sung in sports arenas. And “The Battle Cry of Freedom” was a Union rallying song, rewritten by Confederates with the same melody. Through these three tracks, we explore how music travels—across time, across causes, and sometimes across the line of its original meaning.

June 17 Father Figures

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 11:01:02 +0000

We're celebrating Father's Day this week! Boneapart and Yulia spend the week talking about dads, fathers, father figures, and, of course, music!

DEI - Blind Skeleton Style

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 11:00:02 +0000

In response to the U.S. Navy’s recent decision to rename ships originally honoring figures like Harriet Tubman and Harvey Milk, this episode of Three Tune Tuesday—“Erased but Not Forgotten”—features three pre-1925 records that speak louder than silence. With non-English and racially coded titles, La Paloma, The French Trot, and Darktown Strutters’ Ball serve as melodic rebukes to a whitewashed vision of history. These songs, recorded by Mexican, multicultural, and Black artists, reflect the true roots of American music and the deep legacy of diversity that no government directive can erase.

Billy Murray

Tue, 27 May 2025 04:18:57 +0000

We're celebrating Billy Murray's birthday this week! We have three songs, ranging from Patriotic for Memorial Day, to Americana, and just plain old fun.

Opera

Tue, 20 May 2025 05:00:20 +0000

UntitledThis week on Three Tune Tuesday, we raise the curtain on a genre often dismissed as dusty and elitist — but trust us, opera’s got bite. We're diving into arias that hit like pop ballads, thrill like thrillers, and joke like vaudeville.

You’ll hear:

John McCormack’s tender take on Puccini’s La Bohème — a poet’s love story set in bohemian Paris.
Enrico Caruso’s swaggering rendition of La donna è mobile — a courtly banger full of charm and cynicism.
Titta Ruffo’s show-stopping Largo al factotum — the operatic equivalent of shotgunning an espresso and winking at the camera.

These recordings are over 100 years old, but the drama, flair, and emotion still ring out loud and clear. So whether you're new to opera or just like your tenors vintage, come join us for a little love, a little betrayal, and a lot of vibrato.

Holy Troublemakers

Tue, 13 May 2025 04:21:56 +0000

A cranky farmer, a striking worker, and a gospel quartet walk into the 20th century—and come out swinging.

From labor unions to hymnbooks, we're marching to the beat of righteous resistance.

Celebration

Tue, 06 May 2025 05:05:59 +0000

It's time to celebrate! There was global pushback this week against the rising tide of extremism and fascism, and we are here to celebrate!

Stoicism as Revolution

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 04:44:32 +0000

UntitMarcus Aurelius turns 1,904 this week, and we’re celebrating with three pre‑1925 shellac gems that trace a Stoic hero’s journey—from public revolt, through reflective calm, to unbreakable inner resolve.led

The Quiet Rebellion of Holding On: Hope and Perseverance

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 11:00:02 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we step gently into the long, slow resistance of endurance. Against a backdrop of political erosion and cultural fatigue, we turn to three early 20th-century recordings that whisper instead of roar — songs that offer spiritual grounding, forward momentum, and the healing power of shared memory. From a parlor hymn of self-realignment to a Highland traveler's ballad, and finally to a balm born of Black spiritual resilience, this episode is for anyone who’s felt like giving up… and decided to sing instead. Featuring Olive Kline & Elsie Baker’s 1922 duet of “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing”, Robert Murray’s 1924 journey along “The Road to the Isles” (Aco Records), and the 1914 recording of “There Is a Balm in Gilead” by the Fisk Jubilee Quartet.

Defiance as the American Pulse

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 23:27:13 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we crank up the victrola and tune into the timeless spirit of defiance—not just as a reaction, but as a rhythm pulsing through American history. From the railroad tracks to the dance halls, from the front lines of war to the backrooms of resistance, defiance has always had a soundtrack—and tonight, we’re dropping the needle on three of its most unforgettable grooves.

Barking Mad! Jazz Jesters and Barkin' Blues

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:48:31 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we slip on banana peels and land squarely in the middle of a jazz-fueled circus. From barking blues to piano-pounding hijinks, these three tunes capture the wonderfully unhinged spirit of early jazz and novelty records that laughed their way through the phonograph horn.

You’ll hear:

A musical riot from the Six Brown Brothers, where Aunt Dinah’s daughter Hannah unleashes absolute piano pandemonium.
A howlin’, growlin’ romp courtesy of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band in “Bow Wow Blues.”
And the clarinet chaos of Wilbur Sweatman, who gleefully sidesteps the doggone blues with a grin and a toot.

So take off your serious face and put on your dancing shoes—this one’s for the jesters, the jazzers, and anyone who’s ever tapped their toe to a barking saxophone.

Fuck Tyranny: A Vintage Howl

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 11:01:02 +0000

Three songs from before 1925, stitched into a fierce, unflinching reflection on power, resistance, and the long memory of music.

️ Warning: Tramp! Tramp! Tramp!

️ Exposure: Old Hundredth

Action: La Marseillaise

Tyrants always forget: the people sing.

We sang in chains.

We sang in revolutions.

We’re still singing now.

Harriet Tubman

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 18:32:02 +0000

Last week was Harriet Tubman Day in the United States. Harriet Tubman was a former slave who led dozens of other slaves to freedom using the Underground Railroad. In this episode we talk about some of the songs they used both as hidden messages as well as songs of hope.

International Women's Day

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 21:19:41 +0000

We're celebrating International Women's Day with three songs from some great female composers. We’ve got a vaudeville siren, a Nordic mystic, and a Parisian virtuoso. Tune in and listen!

Family

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 04:40:59 +0000

A recent death in the family inspired this week's theme of family. Join Boneapart and Yulia as they discuss the issues, share some songs of love and sorrow and, ultimately, end on a humourous note.

Ragtime

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 23:47:55 +0000

Black History Month continues at Blind Skeleton with a discussion of ragtime music, it's origins, and it's influence on the upcoming music style known as "jazz."

Early Blues Women

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 12:01:02 +0000

It's Black History Month! Boneapart and Yulia begin to celebrate by sharing and discussing some very early Blues by black women, including the first ever recording of a blues some by a black woman!

Cats

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 09:32:32 +0000

Celebrating a feline loss, Boneapart and Yulia talk about the history of "cats" and share some cat-inspired pre-1925 music.

Civic Duty

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 08:18:07 +0000

Boneapart and Yulia conclude their monthlong examination of Rights and Responsibilities with a discussion around Civic Duty as seen through the lens of 100+ year old songs.

Universal Suffrage

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 07:28:10 +0000

Boneapart and Yulia continue their reflections on rights and obligations with a discuss of Women's and Universal Suffrage as seen through the lens of three songs over 100 years old.

Rights

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 05:50:51 +0000

Join Boneapart and Yulia this week as they play, and discuss, three songs based on the concept of rights and human rights.

American History

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 05:17:43 +0000

Boneapart and Yulia ring in the New Year with an American History inspired Three Tune Tuesday. Come listen, laugh, learn, and enjoy some old music with them.

New Years Eve

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 15:44:19 +0000

It was New Years Eve! Boneapart and Yulia had a live show. This is it!

Christmas Eve

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 07:21:54 +0000

It's Christmas Eve! Come have a listen as Boneapart and Yulia play some classic Christmas tunes.

Christmas

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 12:01:02 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, we’re celebrating the magic of Christmas with a festive selection of vintage recordings from the early 20th century. Featuring the elegant charm of Marek Weber Trio’s Song of Christmas, the lively medley of Christmas Gems by The Black Diamonds Band, and the serene beauty of Robert Gayler’s Christmas Bells, this episode takes you on a nostalgic journey through the sounds of the season. Along the way, we explore the historical and cultural significance of these recordings, reflecting on how they brought families and communities together during the holidays. From joyful melodies to peaceful reflections, this special episode captures the timeless essence of Christmas past.

Yule

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 12:01:02 +0000

This week's Yule-themed episode of Three Tune Tuesday invites listeners on a magical journey into the traditions and spirit of Yule, illuminated through the enchanting melodies of the acoustic era. Hosted by Boneapart in his digital cottage by the hearth, the episode explores themes of light, renewal, and togetherness through three carefully curated songs: Fred Douglas's celestial Aurora Borealis (1921), Gustav Lange’s serene Pure as Snow (1913), and the harmonious Yule-ride Echoes (1923) by the Holy Trinity Male Quartette. As these timeless tunes crackle to life, Boneapart masterfully weaves their historical and cultural significance into the rich tapestry of Yule celebrations, creating an immersive and heartwarming experience.

A Wax Cylinder Christmas

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 12:01:02 +0000

In this week’s special holiday episode of Three Tune Tuesday, we take you on a nostalgic journey through A Wax Cylinder Christmas, celebrating the festive sounds of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Featuring three enchanting recordings—Frank S. Mazziotta’s lively piccolo performance of "Sleighride" (1898), the Nebe-Quartett’s harmonious "Christmas Carol Medley" (1910), and Albert Quesnel’s heartfelt rendition of "Cantique de Noel" (1914)—this episode brings the joy and wonder of vintage holiday music to life. With historical insights and the warmth of timeless traditions, it’s a perfect way to relive the magic of Christmas past.

Songs of the Stage

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 12:01:02 +0000

Step back in time with this week’s Three Tune Tuesday as we explore the Songs of the Stage—the music that captivated audiences in vaudeville halls, theaters, and beyond during the early 20th century. From the ragtime humor of "Hello! Ma Baby" to the nostalgic charm of "In the Good Old Summertime" and the bittersweet beauty of "My Gal Sal," this episode celebrates the magic of live performance and the innovations that brought it into homes through early recording technology. Join host Boneapart for a journey through history, culture, and timeless melodies that defined an era.

Americana

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 12:01:02 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, join your host Boneapart for a journey into Americana, exploring the rich and diverse music that helped shape the cultural identity of a growing nation. From the adventurous optimism of “Oh Susanna” performed by the Great White Way Orchestra, to the syncopated brilliance of Vess L. Ossman’s rendition of “Maple Leaf Rag,” and the profound hope of “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” by Lieut. Jim Europe’s Four Harmony Kings, each recording offers a glimpse into the spirit of early America. Discover how these timeless melodies reflect the resilience, creativity, and dreams of a nation in transition, and celebrate the enduring power of music to tell our collective story.

Freedom

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 12:01:02 +0000

In this week’s episode of **Three Tune Tuesday**, we explore the enduring theme of freedom through the lens of early 20th-century music, marking Remembrance Day, Armistice Day, and Veterans Day. Our selections—*“Over There,” “Home Sweet Home,”* and *“Take Me Out to the Ball Game”*—each reveal a unique aspect of freedom: the courage to fight for it, the love of home that makes it worth defending, and the simple joys it brings. Together, these songs offer a heartfelt tribute to the sacrifices made in its name and the everyday blessings it affords.

Wax Cylinders

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:00:03 +0000

Join Boneapart for a nostalgic journey back to the dawn of recorded music as Three Tune Tuesday explores the world of wax cylinders. We'll be spinning selections from Verdi's Il Trovatore, Mozart's The Magic Flute, and Balfe's The Bohemian Girl, all captured on these delicate relics of the past. Discover the stories behind the music, the singers, and the technology that brought these sounds to life over a century ago.

Halloween

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 11:01:02 +0000

Gather 'round the digital hearth and prepare to be chilled to the bone! Three Tune Tuesday is a weekly podcast where your skeletal host, Boneapart, spins haunting melodies from the 1910s and '20s. Each episode explores a different theme, delving into the history, culture, and technology behind these vintage tunes. From ghostly waltzes to devilish dreams, we'll unearth the spooky sounds of Halloween past and explore the evolving spirit of this haunting holiday. So, dim the lights, grab your favorite brew, and join us for a spine-tingling journey through the forgotten corners of early recorded music.

Edison Records

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 02:06:13 +0000

In this week’s episode of Three Tune Tuesday, we explore the diverse catalog of Edison Records, one of the pioneering forces in early 20th-century recorded music. Our journey begins with the sweeping orchestral sounds of Wagner’s Die Meistersinger Overture, performed by the American Concert Orchestra, which we’ll experience in two parts. Between these grandiose pieces, we’re treated to the sentimental charm of Walter Scanlan’s Sometime, a popular vocal hit from the 1920s. From classical grandeur to romantic ballads, this episode showcases the range of music that captivated early phonograph listeners and helped shape the world of recorded sound.

Pathe Records

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 12:25:45 +0000

Journey back to 1920 with us on #ThreeTuneTuesday! We’re exploring Pathé Records and their groundbreaking vertical-cut recording method. Discover how technology shaped the sounds of a century ago.

Emerson Records

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 10:01:02 +0000

Step into our time machine and join us for a musical journey to the early 20th century! This week's Three Tune Tuesday explores the fascinating story of Emerson Records. From its innovative "universal cut" records to its diverse catalog featuring jazz, opera, and early country music, we'll discover how this short-lived but influential label shaped the sound of the Roaring Twenties.

Banner Records

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 13:21:40 +0000

This episode of Three Tune Tuesday delves into the world of Banner Records, a pivotal player in the early 1920s music industry. Through three carefully selected songs from Banner's catalog, the podcast explores how this budget label democratized access to popular music. The journey begins with "In Our Parlor on a Sunday Night" (1923), illustrating the importance of parlor music in American homes. It then moves to the lively dance halls with "Ritzi Mitzi" (1923), showcasing the rise of dance music during the Roaring Twenties. The musical exploration concludes with Irving Berlin's "Lady of the Evening" (1922), demonstrating Banner's strategy of covering works by renowned composers. Throughout the episode, listeners gain insights into Banner Records' innovative business model, its impact on spreading popular music across diverse demographics, and its significant contribution to shaping a shared national musical culture in 1920s America. The podcast also touches on the broader context of the music industry at the time, highlighting how Banner's budget-friendly approach made quality recordings accessible to a wider audience, forever changing the landscape of recorded music.

Cameo Records

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 12:34:20 +0000

Step back in time to the Roaring Twenties, when a upstart record label called Cameo shook the foundations of the music industry. In this episode of Three Tune Tuesday, we'll explore how Cameo Records revolutionized the market with their 50-cent records, making music accessible to the masses during the Jazz Age. From hot jazz tunes to Broadway hits, we'll sample Cameo's diverse catalog and uncover how this budget-friendly label captured the sounds of a nation in transition. Join us as we drop the needle on three vintage Cameo recordings and discover the fascinating story of a company that helped democratize music in America. It's a tale of innovation, adaptation, and the power of affordable tunes in the face of industry giants.

Okeh Records

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 12:27:05 +0000

In this episode of “Three Tune Tuesday,” we explore the fascinating early years of Okeh Records, from its founding in 1916 to its influential position in the music industry by 1922. Through three carefully selected recordings, we trace Okeh’s evolution and its significant impact on American popular music. We begin with the “12th Street Rag” by the Rega Dance Orchestra (1920), which captures the transition from ragtime to early jazz and Okeh’s role in popularizing dance music. Next, we discover a young Artie Shaw in “Fee Fi Fo Fun” (1922), highlighting Okeh’s knack for spotting future talent and adapting to changing musical trends. Finally, we delve into the sophisticated world of hotel orchestras with Vincent Lopez’s “Deedle Deedle Dum” (1922), showcasing Okeh’s diverse catalog and marketing strategies. Throughout the journey, we explore Okeh’s innovative approaches, including their groundbreaking “race records” series and their ability to capture a wide range of musical styles, cementing their place as a pivotal force in shaping the soundscape of early 20th century America.

Paramount Records

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 12:25:36 +0000

In this episode of "Three Tune Tuesday," we embark on a captivating journey through the early years of Paramount Records, from 1917 to 1920. We explore the label's unexpected origins as a side venture of the Wisconsin Chair Company, tracing its evolution from pressing classical records to becoming a significant player in the burgeoning popular music scene. Through three carefully selected recordings - the Blue Danube Waltz by the Paramount Symphony Orchestra (1917), Träumerei performed by Samuel Gardner (1918), and La Veeda by the Newport Society Orchestra (1920) - we witness Paramount's transformation. These selections showcase the label's initial focus on classical music, its technical improvements in recording, and its shift towards the popular dance tunes that would set the stage for its later significance in blues and jazz. Along the way, we delve into the historical context of each recording, examining how Paramount's journey reflected and influenced the changing musical landscape of early 20th century America.

Lyric Records

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 11:49:25 +0000

In this episode of Three Tune Tuesday, we explored the fascinating world of Lyric Records, a pioneering label from the early 20th century. We journeyed through three distinctive recordings that showcase the label's commitment to quality and its capture of a pivotal moment in American musical history. From the young George Gershwin's collaboration on "Darling" performed by Selvin's Novelty Orchestra, to Jerome Kern's emotive "Left All Alone Again Blues" brought to life by Joseph Samuels Dance Orchestra, and finally to the lively "At the High Brown Babies Ball" by Yerke's Novelty Five, we witnessed the transition from ragtime influences to the emergence of early jazz. These selections not only entertained but also provided a valuable historical perspective on the evolving soundscape of post-World War I America, demonstrating Lyric Records' significant role in preserving the musical heritage of its time.

Summer Songs

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 13:26:10 +0000

In this nostalgic journey through the summers of yesteryear, Three Tune Tuesday explores three classic songs from the early 1900s that capture the essence of the season. We begin with "In the Good Old Summer Time" (1902) by Harry Macdonough, a beloved tune that paints a picture of romantic summer strolls. Next, we delve into "Summertime" (1908) by the Haydn Quartet, which offers a glimpse into leisurely summer pastimes of the era. Finally, we round off with "School Days" (1908), celebrating the joy of summer vacation's arrival.

Songs from Vaudeville

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:23:02 +0000

In this edition of "Three Tune Tuesday," we embarked on a musical journey through the vibrant world of vaudeville, exploring three iconic songs that capture the spirit of early 20th-century American entertainment. We began with "Hello! Ma Baby" (1899), a humorous take on technology and romance performed by Len Spencer, which showcased vaudeville's ability to comment on societal changes. Next, we delved into "Bill Bailey, Won't You Please Come Home" (1902), performed by Bob Roberts and Fred Hylands, examining the rise of ragtime and its influence on popular music. Finally, we concluded with "Shine On, Harvest Moon" (1910), recorded by Arthur Pryor's Band, discussing how this vaudeville staple transcended its origins to become a timeless classic. Throughout the episode, we explored the cultural context of each song, the artists who brought them to life, and their lasting impact on American music, providing listeners with a rich tapestry of historical insight and musical appreciation.

Saxophone Songs

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:02:17 +0000

This week's Three Tune Tuesday takes listeners on a journey through the early days of the saxophone in popular music. We explore three groundbreaking recordings that showcase the instrument's evolution from 1914 to 1919. Beginning with the Six Brown Brothers' vaudeville-inspired rendition of "La Paloma" (1914), we witness the saxophone's initial foray into entertainment. We then move to Rudy Wiedoeft's elegant "Valse Erica" (1916), which demonstrates the instrument's potential for sophisticated expression. Finally, we delve into the Columbia Saxophone Sextet's "All Blues Medley" (1919), showcasing how the saxophone adapted to emerging American musical forms. Through these selections, we trace the saxophone's journey from novelty to necessity, setting the stage for its central role in the jazz age and beyond.

Rural Life and Folk Traditions

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 01:10:05 +0000

This edition of "Three Tune Tuesday" takes listeners on a captivating journey through rural American life and folk traditions, focusing on three iconic songs from the early 20th century. The episode explores the boisterous energy of "Old Dan Tucker" (1916), recorded by Harry C. Brown, which captures the spirit of rural entertainment and showcases Columbia's lateral recording process. It then delves into the witty exchanges of "The Arkansas Traveler" (1922), performed by Steve Porter and Ernest Hare, highlighting rural hospitality and humor while examining Edison's innovative "hill and dale" recording method. Finally, it presents the nostalgic sentimentality of "The Old Oaken Bucket" (1905), recorded by an unnamed male quartet for the Harvard Disc Record label, reflecting on rural life amidst increasing urbanization. Throughout the episode, host Boneapart interweaves historical context, technological advancements in early sound recording, and the cultural significance of these musical treasures, emphasizing the importance of preserving these traditions as a window into America's past.

Cultural Melting Pot

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 12:44:30 +0000

In this episode of Three Tune Tuesday, host Boneapart takes listeners on a captivating journey through the musical landscape of the early 20th century, exploring how urban centers became cultural melting pots that gave birth to new and exciting sounds. The episode features three distinct pieces: 'El Choclo,' a tango recorded by a Spanish band, showcasing the global spread of Latin American rhythms; 'Nola,' a fox trot by Felix Arndt that blends ragtime with classical influences; and 'Gypsy Love Song,' performed by Eugene Cowles, demonstrating the fusion of operetta and popular styles. Through these selections, listeners gain insight into the vibrant cultural exchanges of the era and their lasting impact on modern music.

World War I Reflections

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 12:14:53 +0000

This week's episode of Three Tune Tuesday delves into the profound impact of World War I on music, highlighting how songs served as a source of comfort, camaraderie, and emotional expression for both soldiers and those on the home front. We explore the spirited farewell of "Goodbye Broadway, Hello France" performed by the American Quartet and Billy Murray, the poignant longing of "Roses of Picardy" by the Atlantic Dance Orchestra, and the humorous yet heartfelt sentiments of "Oh, How I Hate to Get Up in the Morning" performed by Arthur Fields. These songs provide a rich musical tapestry that reflects the resilience and spirit of a generation shaped by the trials of war.

Freedom and the Pursuit of Happiness

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 21:02:40 +0000

In this week's episode of "Three Tune Tuesday," we delve into the theme of "Freedom and the Pursuit of Happiness" in celebration of Canada Day and US Independence Day. Through the evocative melodies of "Marching Through Georgia" by the Zon-o-phone Concert Band, "The Maple Leaf Forever" by the Victor Military Band, and "Yankee Doodle" by Charles Harrison and the Broadway Quartette, we explore the historical significance and enduring legacy of these patriotic songs. Each tune offers a unique glimpse into the spirit of liberation and national pride, reminding us of the values and collective spirit that have shaped our nations. Join us as we reflect on the sacrifices made for our freedoms and the joy of our shared pursuit of happiness.

Women's Suffrage Anthems

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 21:24:35 +0000

In this week’s episode of Three Tune Tuesday, we delve into the inspiring anthems of the women's suffrage movement, highlighting songs that played a pivotal role in advocating for women's rights in the early 20th century. We explore the disciplined determination in "Fall in Line (Suffrage March)" by Victor Military Band, the relatable charm of "Oh, Dear! What Can the Matter Be?" by Ray Herbeck, and the heartfelt advocacy in "She’s Good Enough to Be Your Baby’s Mother" by Anna Chandler. These songs not only entertained but also united and inspired a movement, reflecting the courage and resolve of the women who fought tirelessly for equality and justice.

Technological Marvels

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:01:02 +0000

In this week's episode of Three Tune Tuesday, we delve into the theme of "Technological Marvels," celebrating early 20th-century innovations through music. The episode features "Come Take a Trip in My Airship" by J.W. Myers, capturing the excitement of aviation; "Casey Jones" by Billy Murray and the American Quartet, honoring the heroic railroad engineer; and "Over There" by Nora Bayes, a patriotic anthem that boosted American morale during World War I. Each song reflects the era's fascination with technological progress and its profound cultural impact, offering listeners a nostalgic journey through history.

The Dawn of Recorded Music

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 06:30:02 +0000

In this week's episode of "Three Tune Tuesday," we explore the transformative era of the dawn of recorded music. Join us as we listen to George W. Johnson's jovial "The Laughing Song" from 1891, Enrico Caruso's powerful 1904 recording of "Vesti la giubba," and Charles D'Almaine's elegant "Gavotte" from the same year. Discover how the advent of recording technology changed the way people experienced and enjoyed music, bringing the voices and melodies of iconic artists into homes around the world for the first time. Tune in for a captivating journey through musical history and the early days of acoustic recording.

The Industrial Revolution

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:00:02 +0000

In this week's episode of Three Tune Tuesday, we delve into the theme of "Industrial Revolution Rhythms," exploring how the rapid technological advancements and urbanization of the late 19th and early 20th centuries influenced music. Featuring Allen McQuhae's romantic "Kiss Me With Your Eyes," The Music Art Singers' intricate "Madrigal," and Billy Jones and Ernest Hare's nostalgic "Down At the Old Swimmin' Hole," we examine how these songs reflect the bustling energy, precision, and blend of rural past and urban present that defined the Industrial Revolution. Join Boneapart in this musical journey through time, celebrating the melodies that captured the spirit of an era in transition.

Songs of Protest

Tue, 28 May 2024 11:01:02 +0000

In this episode of Three Tune Tuesday, we delved into the rich history and enduring power of protest songs recorded before 1924. We explored the stirring "Battle Hymn of the Republic" by Frank C Stanley, a Civil War anthem that galvanized the Union cause; the poignant "Hard Times, Come Again No More" by Louise Homer, a reflection on the struggles faced by the poor; and "A Man's a Man for a'That" by Hector Grant, Robert Burns's egalitarian anthem celebrating the dignity and worth of every individual. These songs, each a powerful call for social justice and change, remind us of music's timeless ability to inspire and unite people across generations.

Folk Revival

Tue, 14 May 2024 11:00:02 +0000

In this week's "Three Tune Tuesday," we delve into the rich history of American folk music with a thematic exploration titled "Folk Revivals." The episode features stirring renditions of the timeless "Barbara Allen" by Frank Luther and his Pards, the instrumental mastery of "Cumberland Gap" by Uncle 'Am' Stuart, and the evocative "The Virginia Moonshiner" by Jesse Coat. Each song offers a unique window into the past, showcasing the themes of love, adventure, and defiance that have echoed through American history and shaped its cultural landscape. This journey through folk music not only entertains but also educates, connecting us with the enduring human stories that folk music captures so well.

Syncopated Spirit: A Journey Through Ragtime

Tue, 07 May 2024 12:56:13 +0000

On this week's Three Tune Tuesday, "Syncopated Spirit: A Journey Through Ragtime," host Boneapart guides listeners through the lively world of early ragtime. The episode showcases Scott Joplin's iconic "Maple Leaf Rag" and "The Entertainer," revealing how his rhythmic mastery and catchy melodies established him as the "King of Ragtime." The journey culminates in the Original Dixieland Jazz Band's "Tiger Rag," whose high-energy blend of ragtime and early jazz electrified audiences nationwide. With historical insights and syncopated rhythms, this episode paints a vibrant picture of ragtime’s rise and its influence on American music.

Sax Appeal: The Whimsical World of the Six Brown Brothers

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 11:30:02 +0000

Join us this week on Three Tune Tuesday as we delve into the whimsical world of the Six Brown Brothers, the trailblazing saxophone sextet that became vaudeville sensations in the early 20th century. Known for their quirky performances and exceptional musicianship, the Six Brown Brothers played a pivotal role in popularizing the saxophone and infusing early jazz with their unique blend of humor and harmony. Tune in as we explore their captivating soundscapes and the cultural backdrop that made their music a defining part of the era's entertainment landscape. Don't miss this saxophone-packed journey into the heart of vintage vaudeville!

Whispers of Jazz The Paul Whiteman Odyssey

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 04:30:02 +0000

In this captivating episode of Three Tune Tuesday, titled "Whispers of Jazz: The Paul Whiteman Odyssey," we journey through the life and music of Paul Whiteman, a pivotal figure dubbed the 'King of Jazz.' From his early classical roots to his meteoric rise in the roaring twenties, Whiteman's innovative blend of jazz and orchestral music paved the way for the genre's mainstream acceptance. Through a carefully curated selection of his iconic tracks - "Whispering," "Three O'Clock in the Morning," and "Avalon" - we delve into the stories behind the music, exploring how Whiteman's legacy continues to resonate in the jazz world and beyond, making this episode an essential listen for music lovers and history aficionados alike.

Harmony and Eclipse: A Journey Through Time, Triumph, and Serendipity

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:51:02 +0000

Celebrating the anniversary of the modern Olympic games, the awe-inspiring beauty of a solar eclipse, and the whimsical discovery of a serendipitous song, this episode weaves together the themes of unity, wonder, and random joy through the melodies of yesteryear. From the spirited "Olimpiada (Olympic)" by the Ceskoslovenska narodni Kapela, through the mysterious "Eclipse Medley" by Pietro, to the unexpectedly delightful "Peggy Dear" by Gene Fosdick's Hoosiers, listeners are treated to a journey that not only entertains but deeply connects them to the rich tapestry of human experience and the timeless nature of music's power to unite and inspire.

Echoes of a Musical Pioneer: Honoring W.C. Handy on Three Tune Tuesday

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 10:10:01 +0000

In this week's episode of Three Tune Tuesday, titled "Echoes of a Musical Pioneer: Honoring W.C. Handy," we embark on a soul-stirring journey through the life and legacy of W.C. Handy, the 'Father of the Blues.' Host Boneapart invites listeners into a digital cottage set in the early 20th century, to celebrate the monumental contributions of Handy, whose music laid the foundation for the blues genre. Through the iconic strains of "Memphis Blues," "Beale Street Blues," and "St. Louis Blues," we explore Handy's unique ability to capture the essence of African American folk music, transforming it into a universal language of emotion and resilience. Interwoven with thoughtful insights into Handy's influence on music and culture, this episode is a tribute to the enduring spirit of the blues, resonating with echoes of a past that continues to inspire the future of American music.

Echoes of the Dance Hall: The All-Star Trio and the Dawn of Jazz

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 07:31:01 +0000

This captivating podcast explores the world of vintage music, focusing on the captivating sounds of the All-Star Trio. From the smoky haze of 1920s dance halls to the marvel of early acoustic recording, this show transports you to an era when music mirrored a society hungry for change and novelty. Discover the infectious rhythms, playful melodies, and historical impact of this early jazz trio while gaining insights into the fascinating cultural shifts of the Roaring Twenties.

Echoes of Innovation: The 1923 Resonance

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 01:30:02 +0000

This week on Three Tune Tuesday, join Boneapart as we travel back a century to 1923, a time of boundless innovation and seismic cultural shifts. In this episode, "Echoes of Innovation: The 1923 Resonance," we explore how groundbreaking technologies like sound-on-film began to intertwine with the burgeoning entertainment industry, setting the stage for the immersive 'talkies' that would captivate audiences worldwide. Through a meticulously curated selection of songs, we'll experience the Roaring Twenties' exuberance, from the sweeping vocals of Broadway to the rhythmical heartbeat of jazz that pulsed through America's veins. Each track not only echoes the technological and cultural milestones of 1923 but also tells a story of a society on the cusp of modernity, yearning for expression and connection in an ever-changing world. Join us in our digital cottage, as we revel in the past's sounds and stories, reminding us of the enduring power of music to capture the spirit of its time.

Roaring Twenties Remix: Music of 1922

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 13:29:04 +0000

Journey back to 1922, a pivotal year in the Roaring Twenties! We'll explore how music reflected society's whirlwind evolution. We'll hear how radio sparked a national soundtrack and made stars overnight, witness the clash of traditional sounds with the liberating rhythms of jazz, and even sneak into a speakeasy for some Prohibition-era blues. Get ready to discover the fascinating soundtrack of a nation caught between its past and an exhilarating future.

Three Tune Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 12:15:50 +0000

Step into 1921, a year of lingering wartime echoes and restless energy! On this Three Tune Tuesday, we explore the birth of the Jazz Age through the hit song "Margie". We'll discuss the rise of radio and its influence on songs like "Pale Moon". Finally, we'll delve into the fascinating world of acoustic recording and its impact on the exotic sounds of "Honolulu Honey". It's a musical journey through a pivotal moment in history, highlighting societal shifts, changing tastes, and technological wonders.

Three Tune Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 13:39:40 +0000

Join us this week on "Three Tune Tuesday" as Doctor Boneapart Rhythmwave, our charismatic conductor of time-traveling tunes, steers the mighty Blind Skeleton online radio station back to the electrifying year of 1920. Immerse yourself in an era where jazz reigned supreme, flappers danced the Charleston, and speakeasies buzzed with forbidden melodies. As the Roaring Twenties dawn, we explore the cultural upheavals, the triumphs of the suffrage movement, and the paradox of Prohibition through the medium that captured it all: music.

Three Tune Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 13:37:28 +0000

Dial in for a dazzling debut as Doctor Boneapart Rhythmwave takes to the airwaves with the premiere episode of Three Tune Tuesday, a time-traveling auditory adventure that'll whisk you back to the transformative year of 1919. In this kickoff special, we're diving into the "Victory Vibes and Artistic Explosion" that defined the era, exploring the boundless creativity and cultural shifts that set the stage for the Roaring Twenties. From the victorious tunes that celebrated the end of the Great War to the jazz beats that defied the dawn of Prohibition, prepare for a journey through the melodies that shaped a pivotal moment in history.

With his unmatched charisma and deep dive into the soul of the era, Doctor Boneapart Rhythmwave introduces a playlist that captures the spirit of 1919, featuring the infectious energy of "Tiger Rag" by the Original Dixieland Jazz Band, the defiant "Alcoholic Blues" by the All Star Trio, and the spirited "Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives to Me" by Esther Walker. This episode isn't just a history lesson; it's an invitation to experience the music that moved a generation, through the lens of a host who's passionate about bringing the past to life. Tune in, turn up the volume, and let Doctor Boneapart Rhythmwave guide you through the rich tapestry of 1919's musical landscape, where history has never sounded so alive.

Three Tune Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 18:24:34 +0000

1918 saw the end of World War 1 and the beginnings of a national Jazz scene. Come listen as we explore the impact of culture, society, and technology on music!

Three Tune Tuesday, February 6, 2024

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 03:49:30 +0000

Step into the digital parlor of Three Tune Tuesday, where the echoes of 1917 reverberate through the air, led by your host, Boneapart. In this week's episode, we travel back to a world caught in the whirlwind of the First World War, a time of immense transformation where music served as a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil. As you nestle into the warmth of a Victorian embrace, let Boneapart guide you through the poignant melodies of a year that witnessed the stark contrasts of human experience—from the battlegrounds to the revolutionary fervor that reshaped nations. Discover the timeless strains of "Smiles and Chuckles," a piece that dances between the notes of joy and the early jazz influences that would shape a century. Take a pause with Skeleton Brew's coffee interlude, a modern nod to the pleasures that bind us across time. Then, dive into the pioneering sounds of "Livery Stable Blues," a record that heralded the jazz age, and conclude with the stirring patriotism of "Over There." Join us on this auditory journey through 1917, where history's melodies offer not just a reflection on the past, but a connection to the enduring human spirit.

Three Tune Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Sat, 03 Feb 2024 02:01:57 +0000

Step back in time with this week's "Three Tune Tuesday" as we spotlight the year 1916—a pivotal moment in music history captured through the authentic sounds of acoustically recorded songs. In this special episode, we delve deep into the sonic landscape of the early 20th century, featuring a trio of tracks that encapsulate the spirit and innovation of the era.