Norfolk Jazz & Jubilee Quartet
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Biography
The Norfolk Jazz & Jubilee Quartet was an American vocal ensemble from Norfolk, Virginia, formed in 1919. The founding members were Otto Tuston, James âBuddyâ Butts, Delroy Hollins, and Len Williams. Initially known as the Norfolk Jazz Quartette, the group began its career in vaudeville before making its first recordings in 1921, including the first version of Jelly Roll Mortonâs "Jelly Roll Blues". The quartet was among the first to record close harmony jazz and spirituals, often accompanied by a guitar. Between 1924 and 1929, they recorded as The Negro Spirituals and the Norfolk Jubilee Quartette, releasing over 110 titles for labels including Okeh, Paramount Records, and Decca Records. Their repertoire featured songs such as "Father Prepare Me" and "Queen Street Rag". Following Williamsâ death in 1940, the group disbanded. Their discography was later compiled into the six-volume series Complete Recorded Works.
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