Music · 1914
Ragtime Rhythms and the Dawn of War
In 1914, the world stood on the precipice of global conflict, but popular culture vibrated with revolutionary dance crazes and early blues. As soldiers marched off with sentimental anthems on their lips, composers in America laid the groundwork for modern music licensing and musical theater.
- Feb 13, 1914 | USA | Copyright
ASCAP Foundation
Victor Herbert and fellow musicians establish the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers in New York to protect creators' rights.
- 1914 | W.C. Handy | Sheet Music
St. Louis Blues
W.C. Handy publishes his legendary composition, blending ragtime with classic blues structure and introducing the genre to a mainstream audience.
- Aug 24, 1914 | Jerome Kern | Musical
They Didn't Believe Me
Premiering in the Broadway production 'The Girl from Utah', Jerome Kern's ballad reshapes the sound and structure of American musical theater.
- Feb 1914 | James Reese Europe | Ragtime
Castle House Rag
James Reese Europe's Society Orchestra records a landmark syncopated track for Victor, popularizing the foxtrot dance phenomenon.
- Nov 1914 | John McCormack | Vocal
It's a Long Way to Tipperary
Tenor John McCormack records the marching song that rapidly becomes the definitive wartime anthem for British soldiers fighting in Europe.
- Mar 1914 | Vaughan Williams | Classical
A London Symphony
Ralph Vaughan Williams premieres his evocative Symphony No. 2 at Queen's Hall, capturing the bustling street life of the British capital.
- 1914 | Euday L. Bowman | Sheet Music
Twelfth Street Rag
Euday L. Bowman publishes his infectious syncopated piano piece, which would go on to become one of the most enduring ragtime tunes of all time.
- Oct 1914 | Ivor Novello | War Song
Keep the Home Fires Burning
Welsh composer Ivor Novello pens a comforting patriotic hit that offers solace to families separated by the outbreak of World War I.
Enjoyed your trip back in time?