Okeh Records

Definition

Okeh Records was a prominent American record label founded in 1918, known for its early recordings of jazz and blues music. The label played a vital role in the transition from ragtime to early jazz, promoting pioneering musicians and helping to disseminate their music, particularly during the Great Migration when jazz moved from New Orleans to Chicago.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Okeh Records was one of the first labels to focus on recording African American artists, significantly impacting the music industry by giving these artists a platform.
2. The label was instrumental in popularizing many jazz standards by recording some of the earliest sessions of influential musicians like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington.
3. In addition to jazz, Okeh Records also recorded a wide variety of genres, including blues and folk, showcasing the rich diversity of American music during that era.
4. During the 1920s, Okeh Records adopted a unique marketing strategy that emphasized the authenticity of its artists, which helped build a strong connection with audiences.
5. The label's influence diminished after the 1930s due to the Great Depression and the rise of larger record companies, but its legacy continued through the music it helped popularize.

Review Questions

• How did Okeh Records contribute to the transition from ragtime to early jazz?
  • Okeh Records played a crucial role in the transition from ragtime to early jazz by providing a platform for many musicians who were experimenting with new sounds. By recording and promoting these artists, Okeh helped introduce jazz to broader audiences, allowing it to evolve beyond its New Orleans roots. The label's commitment to showcasing African American talent also helped legitimize jazz as a serious musical genre during this time.
• Discuss the impact of Okeh Records on pioneering musicians in jazz history.
  • Okeh Records had a significant impact on pioneering musicians by giving them the opportunity to record their work and reach national audiences. Artists like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington were able to showcase their talents through Okeh’s recordings, which contributed to their rise in popularity. This exposure not only helped shape their careers but also influenced the development of jazz as a respected art form in American culture.
• Evaluate how Okeh Records facilitated the migration of jazz from New Orleans to Chicago during the early 20th century.
  • Okeh Records facilitated the migration of jazz from New Orleans to Chicago by actively recording artists who relocated during the Great Migration. As musicians moved north in search of better opportunities, Okeh capitalized on this trend by capturing their performances on record. This not only preserved the evolving style of jazz but also spread its popularity beyond New Orleans, significantly impacting Chicago's vibrant music scene and establishing it as a new center for jazz innovation.

Related terms

Race Records: A term used in the early 20th century to describe records produced primarily for African American audiences, often featuring blues and jazz music.

Al Jolson: An influential entertainer and recording artist of the early 20th century, known for his work with Okeh Records and his contributions to the popularity of jazz and popular music.

Mamie Smith: A singer and songwriter whose recording of 'Crazy Blues' in 1920 became a significant hit for Okeh Records, marking a pivotal moment in the history of blues music.