The Old Town Music Hall and the King of Jazz

When your friend Katie Cavera invites you to go to the movies to see “the worst movie ever made” you cringe, ponder, and then say “Yes,” because with that kind of pedigree there has to be laughter. There were three things that turned my normal “No Way” into a hesitant “Yes.” The feature, Paul Whiteman's The King Of Jazz was being shown at a cultural landmark. The movie boasts Bing Crosby’s first film role as part of the Rhythm Boys, and Katie’s sister Laura was joining us. Two people laughing at a bad old movie is just obnoxious but three and you got yourself a small mob. My snorfling was only heard by us and the one couple in front of us and they appreciated my occasional audible thought bubble/groan. In fact, Katie’s idea was to get a big enough group together and have an interactive experience like they do at The Rocky Horror Picture Show, which would entail response yelling and throwing things at the screen (the place is a historical landmark so it’s not suited for throwing anything…but…if it was, tiny teenie plastic pianos would be perfect). But The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a funny piece of camp from the get-go. The King Of
You've read three articles this month! That makes you one of a rare breed, the true jazz fan!

The Syncopated Times is a monthly publication covering traditional jazz, ragtime and swing. We have the best historic content anywhere, and are the only American publication covering artists and bands currently playing Hot Jazz, Vintage Swing, or Ragtime. Our writers are legends themselves, paid to bring you the best coverage possible. Advertising will never be enough to keep these stories coming, we need your SUBSCRIPTION. Get unlimited access for $30 a year or $50 for two.

Not ready to pay for jazz yet? Register a Free Account for two weeks of unlimited access without nags or pop ups.

Already Registered? Log In

If you shouldn't be seeing this because you already logged in try refreshing the page.

Randi Cee is a bandleader and a swing and hot jazz vocalist living in LA. Her CD, Any Kind of Man, is available via randiceemusic.com. To see clips from her acting and dance career watch this video. For booking information, write: [email protected]

Or look at our Subscription Options.