The Cotton Pickers

The Cotton Pickers were a hot jazz band popular in the early 1920s, known for their lively and danceable tunes. While the exact lineup shifted over time, the group was led by pianist and composer Clarence Williams and often featured prominent musicians like Sidney Bechet, Louis Armstrong, and King Oliver. They were a prolific recording group, releasing numerous sides for various labels, often under different names like the "Original Memphis Five." Their music captures the vibrant energy of the early jazz scene, with a mix of blues, ragtime, and stomps.

If you're looking for a taste of classic New Orleans jazz, The Cotton Pickers are a great place to start. Their recordings offer a glimpse into the music that was filling dance halls nearly a century ago. From bluesy numbers like "Down and Out Blues" to upbeat tracks like "Those Panama Mamas," their catalog is full of infectious rhythms and impressive improvisations. While the name might raise eyebrows today, it's important to remember the historical context and appreciate the music for its historical significance and enduring appeal.

Genres

Ragtime

Latest Release

Prince of Wails (Authentic Recordings 1924 - 1925)

The Cotton Pickers

Album - 12 Tracks - Released January 1, 2014