I’ve been eBaying — looking at the surprises offered for sale.
First, a piece of sheet music tied in to a 1946 record date for the Manor label — with Pete Johnson, Sidney Catlett, Jimmy Shirley, and Gene Ramey. I had never heard of the Duchess Music Publishers, perhaps an attempt to connect with a hoped-for hit record. The arranger’s name caught my eye:
Notice that someone energetically claimed ownership of this sheet.
Then, some paper ephemera connected to the downtown Cotton Club. I know the name is demeaning, and the club wouldn’t admit patrons of color, but with such music and those prices, one could ignore those facts:
Don’t forget to give the card to the headwaiter (decades before email):
The Perfect Evening, no argument:
And Bill Robinson:
Did you know Jack Oakie was so talented? This is a publicity still for the 1934 film MURDER AT THE VANITIES, with two very recognizable musicians:
Ah, show business!
May your happiness increase!
