“Too Bad” – George Olsen and his Music (1926)

George Olsen was born in Portland, Oregon but started his first band at the University of Michigan while a student there. He moved back west after college and started a band in Portland in 1919. By 1923 they were well known on the west coast and began recording for the Victor label, rapidly becoming one of the more popular dance orchestras in the country.

Though known more for playing popular sweet dance music, Olsen’s band did record some hotter records from time to time – including this one, which turned 100 years old just yesterday.

Recorded in New York City on February 5, 1926.
Released as Victor 20024.

Credits:
George Olsen – drums, director
Floyd Rice, Bob Borger – trumpet
Jack Fulton – trombone
Fran Frey – alto sax
Edward Joyce – clarinet, alto sax
Milton Neul – clarinet, tenor sax
Eddie Kilfeather – piano
Bob Rice – banjo, guitar
Jack Hansen – tuba