After discovering that the identity of “Roth’s Gang” on Challenge 747 is very likely Johnny Johnson’s band, I immediately dug out a few Johnson records from the vault and had a listen. Thought I’d share two of my favorite tracks.
The first Johnny Johnson record I posted can be found at:
https://youtu.be/Jy-iJdBJGrA
The second, a recording of the Rodgers and Hart tune “Thou Swell” (famously recorded by both Bix Beiderbecke and Jabbo Smith a few months later) features what I believe is the debut recording of trombonist Jack Teagarden. He also recorded on this same day with “Wingy” Mannone for Vocalion, however those two recordings were unissued.
Recorded in New York City on December 2, 1927.
Released as Victor 21113.
Credits:
Johnny Johnson – director, piano
Frank Cush – trumpet
Jack Teagarden – trombone
Charles Murray – clarinet, alto sax, vocals
Walter Botsford – clarinet, tenor sax
Roy Strom – violin, vocals
Sam Browne – banjo, vocals
Johnny Porpora – string bass
Bob Treaster – drums, vocals
Harry Shackleford is credited in Rust on tuba, but unless my ears are playing tricks on me, I don’t hear a tube on this one.
To hear (and read) all about Roth’s Gang and Challenge 747, get thee hence:
https://youtu.be/WdPVfPBxELk
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