Tchaikovsky Medley
Spike Jones
Some remarkable musical comedy from a master
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When it came to musical satire and comedy, very few were on the level of Spike Jones (1911-65).
A skilled drummer who performed on many studio sessions and radio shows, Jones became an unexpected hit leading his City Slickers on best-selling records, the radio, and his own television series.
He had great success satirizing other musical styles and was in his prime during 1942-62.
This Tchaikovsky Medley (which reaches far beyond Tchaikovsky) is taken from a June 7, 1952 telecast.
Check out Spike Jones’ drum set, outfit, and the wide assortment of gags featuring his talented musicians; realize that these non-stop routines were being performed on live television.
-Scott Yanow
