Sold Date: March 24, 2018
Start Date: March 17, 2018
Final Price: $58.91 (USD)
Bid Count: 6
Seller Feedback: 417
Buyer Feedback: 1875

AL JOLSON made a remarkable comeback in the late 1940s, on the heels of "The Jolson Story," the Kraft Music Hall on radio, and millions of Decca records. For about five years, until he died in 1950, he vied with Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby as America's most popular singer.  This is the Al Jolson people usually remember whenever his name is mentioned.

HERE though, is a Jolson you are much less familiar with:  The dynamic, twenty-five year old star of the Winter Garden, brash, sassy and hot-as-a pistol.  On this 1912 Victor record, he cavorts, stutters, struts and rags his way through "BRASS BAND EPHRAHAM JONES," and you instantly can hear how and why he quickly earned the title, "The World's Greatest Entertainer."  He was what is known in the show business as a PHENOM. 

WALTER VAN BRUNT also gets raggy with Irving Berlin's "THAT SOCIETY BEAR" on the flip.  All by himself he's good; but he can't compete with Jolie!  

This original 1912 "Patents Label" Victor 17068 is in V+ condition:  some wear, some surface damage.  Still a great playing copy!    

 *****

These records come from my private collection, which I have been accumulating since 1967, and now am downsizing!  My highest priority in these eBay auctions is to give you the best possible idea of a record’s true condition and aesthetic value.  I always post at least four clear images, showing the record fore and aft, a close-up of the label, and the whole disc, warts and all.  If my purple prose won’t cut it, the pictures will!  Shipping is done with expert care. Your record will brave Media Mail in a stout corregated box, between four sheets of cardboard and a couple of “packers.”  I hope you are amused by these descriptions, and by the quality of service being offered.