Big Tiny Little, born Dudley Little Jr. on August 31, 1930, was an American musician and pianist known for his vivacious honky-tonk piano style and engaging stage presence. His rise to fame came after he became a regular face on Lawrence Welk's television show, "The Lawrence Welk Show," from 1955 to 1959, which introduced him to American audiences across the country. Little's music catered to fans of a bygone era, with a focus on the lively sounds of ragtime and honky-tonk, often infused with the spirit of the Roaring Twenties.
Throughout his career, Big Tiny Little recorded a multitude of albums that celebrated the energetic and nostalgic tone of early American piano music. Albums like "Golden Piano Hits," "Honky-Tonk Piano," and "Big Tiny Little's 20's" echo the essence of a ragtime revival, brimming with the sounds that captured the hearts of those longing for the simple joy of toe-tapping melodies. His performances were not just auditory experiences but also visual spectacles, as seen in his televised appearances such as "Spaghetti Rag/Oooh! Look-A-There, Ain't She Pretty (Medley/Live On The Ed Sullivan Show, January 12, 1964)" and "Just One Of Those Things (Live On The Ed Sullivan Show, May 17, 1964)," which showcased his flair for showmanship. Big Tiny Little’s contribution to the genre ensured that the jubilant essence of early 20th-century piano music continued to thrive in America's musical landscape. He passed away on March 3, 2010, leaving behind a legacy encapsulated in his recordings, like "Big Tiny's Little Black Book" and "Make Room For Tiny," which continue to delight fans of traditional piano music.
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