This series is my way of discovering timeless music and uncovering the stories behind some of the greatest songs. Each decade brings a beautiful blend of styles, from jazz to funk to rock. Here are my picks from the 1920s, often called The Jazz Age.
“Ain’t Misbehavin’” – Fats Waller (1929)
A signature tune of the Harlem Renaissance, this song was written by Fats Waller and became a jazz staple. With its playful yet smooth melody, it perfectly captures the free-spirited energy of the era.
“Charleston” – James P. Johnson (1923)
If the Roaring Twenties had a theme song, this would be it! This piano-driven piece fueled the iconic Charleston dance craze, turning dance halls into electrifying hubs of movement and music.
“Makin’ Whoopee” – Eddie Cantor (1928)
A cheeky song with a satirical take on marriage, Makin’ Whoopee was first performed by Eddie Cantor in the musical Whoopee! and later became a jazz standard recorded by many artists.
“Rhapsody in Blue” – George Gershwin (1924)
A groundbreaking composition that blended classical music with jazz, Rhapsody in Blue became one of the most recognizable pieces of the decade, showcasing the limitless potential of jazz as an art form.
There’s something magical about revisiting music from the past, letting it transport you to smoky jazz clubs and candlelit dance floors. Hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed learning about these songs and their history!
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