About This Item
The one time King of New York jazz pianists, James P. Johnson was a pioneer of the stride piano style that became the model for Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Fats Waller and Art Tatum. A sensitive and solid accompanist, Johnson became the pianist of choice for singers Ethel Waters and Bessie Smith. Johnson's 1921 recordings were among the first jazz piano solos to be put on record, and many of his compositions including InchCharlestonInch and InchCarolina ShoutInch became hit tunes of the 1920's and 30's. Presented here are his legendary recordings spanning the years 1921 - 1926, most of which were recorded for the Black Swan tag founded by his good friend, W.C. Handy. All selections newly remastered. Album Tracks 1. Runnin' Wild Medley Charleston / Old Fashioned Love / Open Your Heart / Love Bug 2. Carolina Shout 3. Arkansas Blues 4. Ole Miss Blues 5. Harlem Choc'late Babies on Parade 6. Cry Baby Blues 7. Eccentricity 8. Sugar 9. Down Home Blues 10. Look What a Fool I've Been 11. Muscle Shoals Blues
