Lem Fowler was a very active composer and musician in New York from 1922-1932 – recording over 50 sides and scores of player piano rolls. The composition that put him on the map was “He May Be Your Man But He Comes To See Me Sometimes”, which he sold to Perry Bradford immediately after copyrighting it. Bradford published it and it rapidly became a favorite among blues singers and jazz bands alike.
Despite this, very little is known about his life – and he completely dropped off the radar of jazz world for the rest of his life. It is not even known when or where he died.
On this tune, we hear Fowler and his instrumental trio playing “Washboard Stomp” by Relphow James. Percy Glascoe solos in the gas pipe clarinet style, sometimes using the instrument to emit “laughing” sounds. Fowler and Harding serve as the rhythm section, keeping the tune swingin’ along.
Recorded in New York City on July 2, 1925.
Released as Columbia 14084-D.
Credits:
Lemuel Fowler – piano
Percy Glascoe – clarinet, alto sax
Stanley Harding – washboard
An excellent write-up by Michael Montgomery on what is know about Lem Fowler, his compositions, and his life can be found at: http://www.chicagosouthsidepiano.com/lem-fowler/