The Soundies

Before MTV invented the music video, there were the soundies. In the early 1940's, soda shops and nightclubs had a box called a Panoram. For a dime, you could watch a loop tape with eight music videos on this video jukebox.

I have collected a few soundies below for your delectation. My thanks to the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City for their exhibit on Soundies.

Here is one of my favorite karaoke numbers: Minnie the Moocher, by Cab Calloway.


Here is another song that I love. The harmony of the Jordanaires is just crazy. I am sure a musicologist would be able to tell you something like "they make extensive use of the flatted fifth". I dunno. I just think it sounds cool. Juke Box Saturday Night, Glenn Miller


Here's a song that I think I need to learn: Caldonia,by  Louis Jordan.


I first heard the Bette Midler version of this song. One one way, it's sad that Midler basically stole the song - offering very little creative input. On the other hand, it got me to know the song and the Andrews Sisters' harmony. And Bette Midler has always been a heartthrob for me! Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, as performed by the Andrew Sisters.


There was some jitterbugging in Juke Box Saturday Night, but the dancing in Hellzapoppin' is completely awesome.You have to see this to believe it.


Duke Ellington - what more can I say? Here is  Cottontail, with more gymnastic dancing.


Here is another song that I first heard from a more modern group. The Manhattan Transfer did this song back when I was first listening to music. Here is the Nat King Cole trio doing Route 66. You gotta love Nat's smooth vocal stylings.


That's the end of the reel... time to insert another dime!