The sisters' close and complicated harmonic vocals, scatting and numerous tempo and key changes was unique in their era and has never been equalled. They recording some sides in the 20s, but it wasn't until 1930, when they recorded several sides for the Okeh label, that they finally achieved popular recognition. Between 1930 and 1936 they were the hottest vocal group in the country. They appeared in several movies, played with the top bands (most sucessfully with the Dorsey Brothers) and were regulars on Bing Crosby's radio program. They hit the top of the Hit Parade only once, in 1935, with "The Object of My Affection" from the film Times Square Lady. Both Vet and Martha retired from show business in 1936. Connee continued with a solo career. She hit number one twice during the late '30s, with the Bing Crosby duets "Bob White (Whatcha Gonna Swing Tonight?)" and "Alexander's Ragtime Band," and continued recording into the '60s.
Alexander's Ragtime Band
Boswell Sisters Lyrics
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Come on and hear, come on and hear 'bout the best band in the land
They can play a bugle call like you never heard before
So natural that you want to go to war
That's just the bestest band what am, oh Honey Lamb
Come on along, come on along, let me take you by the hand
Up to the man, up to the man who's the leader of the band
Come on and hear, come on and hear Alexander's Ragtime Band
The Boswell Sisters' Alexander's Ragtime Band is a celebration of music and the band that plays it. The song begins with an invitation to come and hear Alexander's Ragtime Band, which is hailed as the best band in the land. The band is so skilled that they can play a bugle call like no one else, and the music is so infectious that it makes you want to go to war. The song then introduces the leader of the band, who is someone worth meeting. The singer implores the listener to take their hand and go up to meet this impressive leader. The song ends by recalling the Swanee River played in ragtime, and once again inviting the listener to come and hear Alexander's Ragtime Band.
Line by Line Meaning
Come on and hear, come on and hear Alexander's Ragtime Band
Join us and listen to the amazing music created by Alexander's Ragtime Band
Come on and hear, come on and hear 'bout the best band in the land
Listen up and learn about the incredible band that is considered the best in the land
They can play a bugle call like you never heard before
The band has incredible skills and can play bugle calls in a way that you have never heard before
So natural that you want to go to war
The music is so powerful that it instills a sense of patriotism and inspires listeners to go to war if necessary
That's just the bestest band what am, oh Honey Lamb
Simply put, this is the greatest band around, my dear
Come on along, come on along, let me take you by the hand
Join me and let me guide you to where the music is happening
Up to the man, up to the man who's the leader of the band
Let's meet and pay our respects to the man who leads this amazing band
And if you care to hear the Swanee River played in ragtime
If you're interested in hearing a unique rendition of the Swanee River played in the ragtime style
Come on and hear, come on and hear Alexander's Ragtime Band
Come and listen to Alexander's Ragtime Band perform this amazing version of the Swanee River and more
Lyrics © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: COLE PORTER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Miguel Osvaldo Flores Dominguez
Catchy tune, nice singing, nice instrumentation, nice song.
ivan washington
that is a superior 78 rpm dub, all the others I've heard sounded like they were recorded under a blanket. good job :)
Atticus Jazz
Thank you! You might enjoy my other sound restorations aswell...
Peter Hendriksma
Even if I had 10 thumbs, it would still not be enough! I love each and every Bozzies' side, but this one must be one of their very very best. Connie (or should I write Connee) is a her 'foghorny' (her words) best, the Dorseys'' band at its tightest playing, a superlative side. 'Come on Martha, Conny & Vet! Let's do it one more time!'
Kim Williams
Absolutely hands down the best cover of this song.
Fred Beever
Love those Boswell Sisters. Nice collection of photos, too.
Antonio HG
Roger the Alien and Steve Smith in the Ferrari.
Yo ?!!!
Cual es su cuota fredy