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- topic: "Comedy"
Your search found 58 result(s).
-
Boy! What A Girl
- Directed by
- Leonard, Arthur H., American, 1904 - 1956
- Written by
- Valentini, Vincent Andrew, American, 1895 - 1948
- Produced by
- Leonard, Arthur H., American, 1904 - 1956
- Goldberg, Jack, ca. 1889 - 1959
- Edited by
- Kemp, Jack
- Subject of
- Moore, Tim, American, 1887 - 1958
- Stewart, Slam, American, 1914 - 1987
- Catlett, Sidney, American, 1910 - 1951
- Smith, Elwood, American, 1913 - 1992
- Williams, Duke
- Jackson, Alan
- Guyse, Sheila, American, 1925 - 2013
- Betti Mays, American, 1923 - 2014
- Lewis, Sybil, American, 1919 - 1988
- Patterson, Warren
- Wood, Milton
- Composed by
- Williams, Mary Lou, American, 1910 - 1981
- Bishop McCollough, Walter, American, 1915 - 1991
- Date
- 1947
- Medium
- acetate film
- Dimensions
- Duration: 73 Minutes
- Length (Film Reel 1): 1200 Feet
- Length (Film Reel 2): 1200 Feet
- Description
- A 16mm release print of a feature film entitled Boy! What a Girl. It consists of two reels of positive 16mm acetate film (a) and (b), is in black-and-white and contains sound. A single row of perforations runs along one edge, while a variable-area, optical-sound (audio on film) track runs along the other.
- The first scene opens with a street view of New York City. At one point, a street sign which reads [W. 138 / ST. NICHOLAS AVE / 8th AVE SUBY STA] comes into focus on the screen. The footage then quickly jumps to a man playing a double base as four other individuals listen. At the end of his performance, Bumpsie, who is one of the four and wears a long dress, falls to the floor and the other listeners laugh.
- The rest of the film follows two musical producers, Jim Walton and Harry Diggs, who struggle with finding investors to finance their latest show. Mr. Cummings, the father of Jim’s love interest, agrees to invest in their enterprise on one condition: the two producers must convince a Parisian impresario, Madame Deborah, to finance the film as well. The producers convince Bumpsie to pose as Madame Deborah. Everything goes as planned, until the real Madame Deborah shows up.
- Place depicted
- New York City, New York County, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Place filmed
- New York City, New York County, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Collection title
- Nieman Film Collection
- Classification
- Media Arts-Film and Video
- Type
- sound films
- black-and-white films (visual works)
- release prints (motion pictures)
- feature films
- 16mm (photographic film size)
- Topic
- Comedy
- Jazz (Music)
- Race films
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Randall and Sam Nieman
- Object number
- 2015.167.1.1ab
- Restrictions & Rights
- Unknown - Restrictions Possible
-
Juke Joint
- Directed by
- Williams, Spencer, American, 1893-1969
- Subject of
- Orr, Robert, American
- Williams, Spencer, American, 1893-1969
- Newell, Inez
- Duncan, Leonard
- Moore, Dauphine
- Duncan, Melody
- Moore, Katherine
- Patterson, Tilford
- Smith, Albert
- Galloway, Howard
- Beamon, Clifford
- McHugh, Frances
- Gilbert, Don
- Date
- 1947
- Medium
- acetate film
- Dimensions
- Duration: 68 Minutes
- Length (Film Reel 1): 1175 Feet
- Length (Film Reel 2): 1175 Feet
- Description
- 2015.167.10.1ab: 16mm black and white films.
- Bad News Johnson and July Jones, also known as Whitney Vanderbilt and Cornbread Green, when they go to Dallas where they acquire lodgings with Mama Lou and her family. The plot revolves around Mama Lou's efforts to keep her family intact.
- Having fled Memphis, Tennessee, to start a new life, smalltime fugitive Bad News Johnson and his slow-witted companion, July Jones, arrive in Dallas with no place to stay and only twenty-five cents to their name. Johnson explains to July that they are taking the advice of the great thinker Horace Greeley, who said, "Go west young man, and do your best; then come east and spend your grease." When Johnson realizes that July does not understand the quote, he tells July that he is so dumb that he probably thinks that "Veronica Lake is some kinda' summer resort." Using his charm and graciousness, mixed in with a touch of pure deception, Johnson procures a room for himself and July at the home of the Holiday family. Mrs. Louella "Mama Lou" Holiday is at first reluctant take in two strangers as boarders, but when Johnson, who has introduced himself as Mr. Whitney Vanderbilt, impresses her as a great "thespian," she, in the hope that he will tutor her daughter Honey Dew in poise, decides to give them a room. Johnson and July, who is now known as Mr. Green, gladly accept the offer. Meanwhile, Mama Lou's lazy husband, Papa Sam, who was sent by his wife on an errand to the market, is instead at Johnny's Juke Joint playing poker with his pals. Papa Sam's daughter Florida, also at the juke joint, is being pursued by Johnny, the owner of the establishment, who wants to take her to Chicago. When Papa Sam returns home without the food he was sent to get, Mama Lou scolds him until Honey Dew breaks up the fight. Back at the juke joint, while Florida considers Johnny's offer, he calls his wife and tells her that he will be home late. After Johnson and July enjoy their first dinner at the Holidays, Johnson gives Honey Dew lessons on how to carry herself at the beauty contest she has entered, while Florida is told to do the dishes. Johnson's lessons are proven valuable when Honey Dew wins first prize in the contest. Backstage at the contest, Papa Sam's buddy, "High Life" Harris, suggests that Honey Dew be taken to the juke joint to celebrate her success, and Papa Sam agrees. When Mama Lou returns home to find that her husband and Florida, who was given the responsibility of preparing the house for a party, are missing, she marches over to Johnny's with an umbrella in hand and takes swings at Harris, Johnny and Florida. Mama Lou then discovers Papa Sam kissing a waitress outside the juke joint and pounces on him. At home, Mama Lou gives Florida one last beating to punish her for her actions as Johnson and July watch through a keyhole.
- Sources:
- AFI Catalog of Feature Films. Accessed on August 10, 2016 (http://www.afi.com/members/catalog/DetailView.aspx?s=&Movie=27660)
- WorldCat. Accessed on August 10, 2016 (https://www.worldcat.org/title/juke-joint/oclc/16517545&referer=brief_results)
- Place filmed
- Dallas, Texas, United States, North and Central America
- Collection title
- Nieman Film Collection
- Classification
- Media Arts-Film and Video
- Type
- sound films
- black-and-white films (visual works)
- release prints (motion pictures)
- feature films
- 16mm (photographic film size)
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Randall and Sam Nieman
- Object number
- 2015.167.10.1ab
- Restrictions & Rights
- Unknown - Restrictions Possible
-
CC0
Poster for Ebony Parade
- Distributed by
- Astor Pictures, American, 1930 - 1963
- Subject of
- Calloway, Cab, American, 1907 - 1994
- Dandridge, Dorothy, American, 1922 - 1965
- Basie, Count, American, 1904 - 1984
- The Mills Brothers, American, 1928 - 1982
- Moreland, Mantan, American, 1902 - 1973
- Everett, Francine, American, 1915 - 1999
- Smythe, Vanita, American, 1925 - 1994
- Hill, Ruby, American, born 1922
- Flowers, Pat, American, 1917 - 2000
- Day, Dawn, and Dusk, American, 1940 - 1960
- The Jubalaires, American, c. 1940-1950
- Lee, Mable, American, 1921 - 2019
- Date
- 1947
- Medium
- ink on paper (fiber product)
- Dimensions
- H x W (Image): 36 5/8 × 20 7/8 in. (93 × 53 cm)
- H x W (Sheet): 41 1/4 × 26 15/16 in. (104.7 × 68.5 cm)
- Caption
- Released in 1947, Ebony Parade was a series of short sketches and numbers originally distributed as musical shorts by the Soundies Distributing Corporation of America.
- Description
- A large poster for the film Ebony Parade with a blue background and an off-white border. Across the blue background are red musical notes and stars outlined in white. At the top center in red lettering is [20 Great Stars]. Printed in the center in small black type is [Astor Pictures presents] followed by [EBONY PARADE] in large yellow letters over a red background. Surrounding the title are color photographic portraits of the stars of the film. At the top left are the faces of Mantan Moreland, Dorothy Dandridge and Ruby Hill, followed by a full portrait of a seated Mabel Lee and in the bottom left corner is an image of the Mills Brothers gathered around two microphones. On the right side are the faces of Cab Calloway, Vanita Smythe, Francine Everett, and Count Basie. At the bottom right is a yellow box bordered in black with red text that reads [featuring / Cab Calloway * Count Basie / His Band His Band / Mills. Bros. * Vanita Smythe / Mantan Moreland * Mable Lee/ Ruby Hill * Francine Everett / Dorothy Dandridge * Pat Flowers / and / Day, Dawn, and Dusk * Jubilaries]. At the bottom left, in small white text on a red background is [RELEASED THRU ASTOR PICTURES CORP.]. On the back of the poster are two stamps in purple that say [Screen Classics, Inc. / 1632 Central Parkway, Cincinnati 10, Ohio].
- Transcription Center Status
- Transcribed by digital volunteers
- Place used
- United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Memorabilia and Ephemera-Advertisements
- Type
- posters
- Topic
- Actors
- Comedy
- Conductors (Musicians)
- Dance
- Entertainers
- Instrumentalists (Musicians)
- Jazz (Music)
- Musical films
- Musicians
- Race films
- Singers (Musicians)
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Object number
- 2013.118.31
- Restrictions & Rights
- Public domain
-
Standup of the radio show character Amos Jones
- Printed by
- Pepsodent Company, American, 1915 - 1944
- Subject of
- Amos 'n' Andy, American, 1928 - 1960
- Gosden, Freeman, American, 1899 - 1982
- Correll, Charles, American, 1890 - 1972
- Date
- 1930
- Medium
- ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W: 7 5/8 × 3 15/16 in. (19.3 × 10.1 cm)
- Description
- A die cut cardboard standup of the character Amos Jones from the radio show "Amos 'n' Andy," an advertisement for the 1930 Amos n' Andy movie Check and Double Check. The doll is an illustration of a man depicted in blackface wearing a polka-dotted shirt with a hole in the proper right elbow. He also wears a stripped vest with three pockets in the front. The pockets contain a pencil, envelopes and a black book with the title [BANK BOOK] on the front cover. His brown pants have a red patch on the proper left knee. He has blue eyes, brown hair, and a wide, red mouth. He is petting the snout of a white dog with black ears standing on its hind legs with its front paws resting on Amos' proper left knee. The dog's back is facing the viewer. The man's proper left hand rests in his pocket. On the proper left flap at the bottom is black text that reads [COPYRIGHT 1930 / BY THE PEPSODENT CO. / LITHO. IN U.S.A.]. On the proper right flap at the bottom is additional black text that reads [A-pdm-11L]. On the back of the doll in the upper half is a handwritten inscription in blue ink.
- Statement
- Objects depicting racist and/or stereotypical imagery or language may be offensive and disturbing, but the NMAAHC aims to include them in the Collection to present and preserve the historical context in which they were created and used. Objects of this type provide an important historical record from which to study and evaluate racism.
- Classification
- Toys and Games
- Racist and Stereotypical Objects
- Type
- paper dolls
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Kathleen M. Kendrick
- Object number
- 2015.64.10.1
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
Standup of the radio show character Andy Brown
- Printed by
- Pepsodent Company, American, 1915 - 1944
- Subject of
- Amos 'n' Andy, American, 1928 - 1960
- Correll, Charles, American, 1890 - 1972
- Gosden, Freeman, American, 1899 - 1982
- Date
- 1930
- Medium
- ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W: 8 9/16 × 4 3/16 in. (21.7 × 10.7 cm)
- Description
- A die cut cardboard standup of the character Andy Brown from the radio show "Amos 'n' Andy," an advertisement for the 1930 Amos n' Andy movie Check and Double Check. The doll is an illustration of a man depicted in blackface wearing plaid white vest, white shirt, red tie, and black jacket. He has a pen and two pencils in his proper left vest jacket. The man is depicted looking at the viewer and wears squashed bowler hat on his head. He has brwon eyes and a wide, frowning red mouth. In his proper left hand is lit cigar held below his chin. In his proper right hand he holds a cane that crosses across his body and proper right leg. The man also wears stripped pants and dark shoes. The proper left shoe has a hole near the toes, which peek through. On the proper left flap at the bottom is black text [COPYRIGHT 1930 / BY THE PEPSODENT CO. / LITHO. IN U.S.A.]. On the proper right flap at the bottom is additional black text that reads [A-pdm-11R]. On the back of the doll in the upper half is an inscription handwritten in blue ink.
- Statement
- Objects depicting racist and/or stereotypical imagery or language may be offensive and disturbing, but the NMAAHC aims to include them in the Collection to present and preserve the historical context in which they were created and used. Objects of this type provide an important historical record from which to study and evaluate racism.
- Classification
- Toys and Games
- Racist and Stereotypical Objects
- Type
- paper dolls
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Kathleen M. Kendrick
- Object number
- 2015.64.10.2
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
Advertisement for Amos 'n' Andy Television Show sponsored by Blatz
- Commissioned by
- Valentin Blatz Brewing Company, American, 1851 - 1959
- Published by
- Life Magazine, 1883 - 2007
- Subject of
- Amos 'n' Andy, American, 1928 - 1960
- Childress, Alvin, American, 1907 - 1986
- Williams, Spencer, American, 1893-1969
- CBS Broadcasting, Inc., American, founded 1927
- Date
- June 25, 1951
- Medium
- ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W (2015.64a: unfolded): 14 1/16 × 20 3/4 in. (35.7 × 52.7 cm)
- H x W (2015.64a: folded): 14 1/16 × 10 3/8 in. (35.7 × 26.4 cm)
- H x W (2015.64b: unfolded): 14 1/16 × 20 3/4 in. (35.7 × 52.7 cm)
- H x W (2015.64b: folded): 14 1/16 × 10 3/8 in. (35.7 × 26.4 cm)
- Description
- A black and white magazine advertisement for the television show “The Amos 'n Andy Show” from Life Magazine, Volume 30, Number 26, pages 98–99. The advertisement features images of the head of Alvin Childress as cabdriver Amos Jones on page 98 (2015.64.4a) and the head of Spencer Williams as Andy Brown on page 99 (2015.64.4b). Childress is wearing a New York City taxi driver hat, while Williams is wearing a dark derby hat with a silk band and is smoking a cigar. The top third of the advertisement runs across both pages and reads, [Blatz / presents… / Amos ‘n’] on 2015.64.4a, and [Andy on TV!] on 2015.64.4b, with an image of a taxi cab driver hat hanging on the “A” over [Amos] and a derby hat hanging on the “A” over [Andy]. On the bottom of 2015.64.4b, the left half of the page text reads, [Meet a legend / face to face… / World premiere, / week of June 24th / At last, you can see America’s / most heartwarming cast of comedians / in the finest entertainment television / has ever produced. See them all… / Amos, Andy, Kingfish, Lightenin’, / Tune in…meet a legend face to face! / Proudly presented by / Blatz Beer…Milwaukee’s finest / on behalf of its dealers everywhere. / Blatz Brewing Company, Milwaukee, Wis.]. The text on the bottom right corner reads [Another TV triumph from CBS / Consult your local newspaper / for date, time, and channel.]. 2015.64.4a also includes pages 23, 24 and 97. 2015.64.4b also includes pages 21, 22, and 100. Page 21 indicates that this issue dates to June 25, 1951.
- Statement
- Objects depicting racist and/or stereotypical imagery or language may be offensive and disturbing, but the NMAAHC aims to include them in the Collection to present and preserve the historical context in which they were created and used. Objects of this type provide an important historical record from which to study and evaluate racism.
- Type
- advertisements
- Topic
- Comedy
- Men
- Segregation
- Sitcoms
- Stereotypes
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Kathleen M. Kendrick
- Object number
- 2015.64.4ab
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
Denim bucket hat worn by Jimmie Walker as J.J. Evans on Good Times
- Designed by
- Riggs, Rita, American, born 1930
- Manufactured by
- Cali-Fame of Los Angeles, Inc., American, founded 1925
- Worn by
- Jimmie Walker, American, born 1947
- Date
- 1974-1979
- On ViewCulture/Fourth Floor, 4 054
- Exhibition
- Taking the Stage
- Medium
- cotton denim, twill tape, and synthetic fiber
- Dimensions
- H x W x D (On form): 9 1/4 × 9 3/4 × 10 in. (23.5 × 24.8 × 25.4 cm)
- Description
- Blue denim bucket hat with quilted brim worn by Jimmie Walker as the character James "JJ" Evans Jr. on the television show "Good Times." The interior of the cap portion is not lined, though the seams are covered in black twill tape. There is an interior hat band of black synthetic lining material. A white clothing tag with brown printed text is sewn at the center back of the interior band that reads: "Cali-Fame / of / Los Angeles / XL".
- Place used
- United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Clothing-Costume
- Type
- hats
- Topic
- Actors
- Clothing and dress
- Comedy
- Costume
- Families
- Sitcoms
- Stereotypes
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Object number
- 2014.26.1
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
Rhythm and Blues Revue
- Created by
- Studio Films, Inc., American, 1951 - 1956
- Produced by
- Frye, Ben, American
- Subject of
- Lionel Hampton, American, 1908 - 2002
- Adams, Faye, American, born 1923
- Bailey, Bill, American, 1912 - 1978
- Jeffries, Herb, American, 1913 - 2014
- Milburn, Amos, American, 1927 - 1980
- Vaughan, Sarah, American, 1924 - 1990
- Basie, Count, American, 1904 - 1984
- Big Turner, Joe, American, 1911 - 1985
- The Delta Rhythm Boys, American, 1934 - 1987
- Davis, Martha, American, 1917 - 1960
- Little Buck, American
- Cole, Nat King, American, 1919 - 1965
- Moreland, Mantan, American, 1902 - 1973
- Russell, Nipsey, American, 1918 - 2005
- Calloway, Cab, American, 1907 - 1994
- Brown, Ruth, American, 1928 - 2006
- Owned by
- Bowser, Pearl, American, born 1931
- Date
- 1955
- Medium
- acetate film
- Dimensions
- Duration: 72 Minutes
- Length (Film): 1850 Feet
- Length (Film): 1560 Feet
- Length (Film): 1650 Feet
- Length (Film): 1450 Feet
- Title
- 35mm motion picture film of Rhythm and Blues Revue
- Caption
- "Rhythm and Blues Revue", is a 1955 feature film compiled by Studio Films, Inc. from previously recorded Snader Telescriptions featuring renowned African American jazz singers and musicians from the 1950s. Performers include Faye Adams, Bill Bailey, Ruth Brown, Cab Calloway, Nat King Cole, Count Basie, Martha Davis, The Delta Rhythm Boys, Freddy and Flo, Lionel Hampton, Herb Jefferies, The Larks, Little Buck, Amos Milburn, Mantan Moreland, Nipsey Russell, Big Joe Turner, Sarah Vaughan and Willie Bryant.
- Description
- 35mm black and white compilation film of a variety of short musical 'Soundie' films made for music-film jukeboxes, and television, by the Snader Telescription and Studio companies in the 1950s. It consists of four 35mm prints (a-d).
- The film begins with a title sequence that announces each performer as a firework explodes behind their name. A credit roll then displays the below the line contributors. Next, an announcer introduces the emcee, Willie Bryant, during a shot of a theater audience. Bryant emerges from behind a curtain as the audience applauds. Before he can begin speaking, Bryant is interrupted by the comedian Freddie Lucas (Part of the Freddie & Flo comedy duo), who begs to be on the show. Later in the skit, Florence Hill (Flo) appears as a mind reading librarian. At the conclusion of the skit, Bryant announces the first performer, Lionel Hampton and his orchestra who perform “Jam Session.” After the conclusion of the song, the curtain closes and there are multiple shots of the audience cheering as Willie Bryant again appears to announce the next performer, Faye Adams who performs “Everyday” in front of the curtain. After the song ends there are multiple shots of the cheering audience and Bryant appears to announce the next performer, Bill Bailey. Bailey performs a tap dancing routine that includes dance moves from his teacher Bill “Bojangles” Robinson and concludes with a moonwalk. At the end of the performance, the curtain closes and there are multiple shots of the audience cheering as Willie Bryant appears to announce the next performer, Herb Jeffries who sings “In My Heart.” When the song ends, the curtain closes and there are multiple shots of the audience cheering as Freddie & Flo rush onto the stage to perform a comedy routine. After their routine there are multiple shots of the cheering audience and Bryant appears to announce the next performer, Amos Milburn, who sings “Bad Bad Whiskey” with backing from the Paul Williams Band. At the conclusion of the song, the curtain closes and then reopens so that Milburn can bow. Bryant appears to announce the next performers, The Larks, who sing “The World Is Waiting For The Sunrise.” At the end of the performance, the curtain closes and there are multiple shots of the audience cheering as Bryant brings Freddie & Flo back onto the stage for some comedic banter. Bryant then introduces Lionel Hampton who performs “Bongo Interlude.” Two unnamed women dance during the performance. The curtain closes and there are multiple shots of the audience cheering. When curtain opens, the stage is set up as a tobacconist and Leonard Reed is behind the counter listening to a Brooklyn Dodgers baseball game on the radio. Willie Bryant appears and the two men engage in a brief skit. Bryant then presents the next performer, Sarah Vaughan, who sings “Perdido.” The curtain closes and there are multiple shots of the audience cheering as Bryant returns to the stage. Nipsy Russell sneaks onto the stage behind Bryant and the two engage in comedic banter before Bryant presents the next performer, Count Basie who performs “Basie’s Conversation.” The curtain closes, there are multiple shots of the audience cheering, and Bryant introduces Big Joe Turner who sings “Shake Rattle And Roll.” The curtain closes, there are multiple shots of the audience cheering, and Bryant introduces the next performers, The Delta Rhythm Boys, who perform the spiritual “Dem Bones.” The curtain closes, there are multiple shots of the audience cheering, and Bryant introduces the next performers Martha Davis and her husband, Calvin Ponder, who perform “Just Goodbye.” The curtain closes, there are multiple shots of the audience cheering, and Bryant introduces the next performer, Little Buck, who performs a tap dance routine. The curtain closes, there are multiple shots of the audience cheering, and Bryant brings out Little Buck for more applause. Bryant then introduces the next performer, Nat King Cole, who sings “Calypso Blues.” The curtain closes, there are multiple shots of the audience cheering, and Nipsy Russell and Mantan Moreland come out for a comedy routine. Moreland leaves the stage and Russell continues on his own. Following Russell’s routine, Bryant introduces Cab Calloway who performs “Minnie The Moocher.” The curtain closes, there are multiple shots of the audience cheering, and Bryant brings out Ruth Brown for some stage banter before she performs “Teardrops From My Eyes” with backing by the Paul Williams Band. The curtain closes, there are multiple shots of the audience cheering, and Bryant introduces Count Basie for the film’s final performance, “One O’Clock Jump.”
- Place depicted
- Harlem, New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Collection title
- Pearl Bowser Collection
- Classification
- Media Arts-Film and Video
- Topic
- Actors
- Comedy
- Entertainers
- Film
- Jazz (Music)
- Musical films
- Musicians
- Rhythm and blues (Music)
- Tap dancing
- Variety shows (Television)
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Pearl Bowser
- Object number
- 2012.79.1.105.1a-d
- Restrictions & Rights
- Unknown - Restrictions Possible
-
Rock-N-Roll Revue
- Created by
- Studio Films, Inc., American, 1951 - 1956
- Directed by
- Kohn, Joseph
- Produced by
- Frye, Ben, American
- Subject of
- Apollo Theater, founded 1934
- Ellington, Duke, American, 1899 - 1974
- Lionel Hampton, American, 1908 - 2002
- Vaughan, Sarah, American, 1924 - 1990
- Russell, Nipsey, American, 1918 - 2005
- Coles & Atkins, American, 1940 - 1959
- Darnell, Larry, American, 1921 - 1983
- Bryant, Willie, American, 1908 - 1964
- The Clovers, American, founded 1946
- Washington, Dinah, American, 1924 - 1963
- Cole, Nat King, American, 1919 - 1965
- Big Turner, Joe, American, 1911 - 1985
- Reed, Leonard, American, 1907 - 2004
- Owned by
- Bowser, Pearl, American, born 1931
- Date
- 1955
- Medium
- acetate film
- Dimensions
- Duration: 70 Minutes
- Length (Film) - Reel 1: 1630 Feet
- Length (Film) - Reel 2: 1765 Feet
- Length (Film) - Reel 3: 1520 Feet
- Length (Film) - Reel 4: 1440 Feet
- Title
- 35mm motion picture film of Rock-N-Roll Revue
- Caption
- "Rock-n-Roll Revue" is a 1955 feature film compiled by Studio Films, Inc. from previously recorded Snader Telescriptions featuring renowned African American jazz singers and musicians from the 1950s. The film includes performances by Duke Ellington, Larry Darnell, Coles and Atkins, The Clovers, Dinah Washington, Nat King Cole, Big Joe Turner, Willie Bryant, and Leonard Reed.
- Description
- 35mm black and white compilation film of a variety of short musical 'Soundie' films made for music-film jukeboxes, and television, by the Snader Telescription and Studio companies in the 1950s.It consists of four 35mm film prints (a-d).
- The film begins with a title sequence that announces each performer as a firework explodes behind their name. A credit roll then displays the below the line contributors. Next, an announcer introduces the emcee, Willie Bryant, during a shot of a theater audience. Bryant emerges from behind a curtain as the audience applauds. He begins his introduction of the show’s proceedings; he refers to the show as the “Harlem Variety Revue.” Bryant then introduces the first performer, Duke Ellington. The curtain parts and Ellington and his orchestra perform “The Mooche.” After the conclusion of the song, the curtain closes and there are multiple shots of the audience cheering as Willie Bryant again appears to announce the next performer, Larry Darnell. Darnell performs “What More Do You Want Me To Do.” After the performance ends, the curtains close while Darnell bows and the audience cheers. Willie Bryant then emerges onstage as the curtains re-open and Darnell bows in Bryant’s direction. The two men then exchange playful gestures and Bryant tells a joke. Bryant segues into an introduction of the tap dancing duo, Coles & Atkins. The duo then perform a short routine. After the routine, Bryant, Coles and Atkins perform a comedic piece based around Bryant interrupting their performance. Coles & Atkins then goad Bryant into dancing with them and the three men perform a brief routine. There are multiple shots of the audience cheering when they leave the stage. Bryant then introduces The Clovers, who perform “Your Cash Ain’t Nothin’ But Trash.” After the song ends, there is another comedy routine with Willie Bryant, Coles & Atkins, and Leonard Reed. There are multiple shots of the audience before Bryant introduces Dinah Washington, who performs “Only a Moment Ago.” Bryant then introduces Nat King Cole, who performs “The Trouble With Me Is You.” After multiple shots of the audience when the song concludes, Bryant again introduces Duke Ellington, who performs “The Hawk Talks” with his orchestra. There are multiple shots of the drummer Louie Bellson as he performs a drum solo during the song. Bryant introduces Big Joe Turner by way of a comedy bit with Leonard Reed. Turner performs “Oke-She-Moke-She-Pop” with backing by the Paul Williams Band. The film concludes with a shot of the audience cheering.
- Place depicted
- Harlem, New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Collection title
- Pearl Bowser Collection
- Classification
- Media Arts-Film and Video
- Topic
- Comedy
- Entertainers
- Film
- Jazz (Music)
- Musical films
- Musicians
- Rhythm and blues (Music)
- Rock and roll (Music)
- Tap dancing
- Variety shows (Television)
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Pearl Bowser
- Object number
- 2012.79.1.84.1a-d
- Restrictions & Rights
- Unknown - Restrictions Possible
-
Basin Street Revue
- Created by
- Studio Films, Inc., American, 1951 - 1956
- Directed by
- Kohn, Joseph
- Produced by
- Frye, Ben
- Subject of
- Apollo Theater, founded 1934
- Reed, Leonard, American, 1907 - 2004
- Bryant, Willie, American, 1908 - 1964
- Vaughan, Sarah, American, 1924 - 1990
- Lionel Hampton, American, 1908 - 2002
- Adams, Faye, American, born 1923
- Jeffries, Herb, American, 1913 - 2014
- Calloway, Cab, American, 1907 - 1994
- The Clovers, American, founded 1946
- Davis, Martha, American, 1917 - 1960
- Frank Foster, American, 1928 - 2011
- Moreland, Mantan, American, 1902 - 1973
- Russell, Nipsey, American, 1918 - 2005
- Milburn, Amos, American, 1927 - 1980
- Coles & Atkins, American, 1940 - 1959
- Williams, Paul, American, 1915 - 2002
- Owned by
- Bowser, Pearl, American, born 1931
- Date
- 1956
- Medium
- acetate film
- Dimensions
- Duration: 61 minutes
- Length (Film) - Reel 1: 1520 Feet
- Length (Film) - Reel 2: 1320 Feet
- Length (Film) - Reel 3: 1290 Feet
- Length (Film) - Reel 4: 1370 Feet
- Title
- 35mm motion picture film of Basin Street Revue
- Caption
- "Basin Street Revue is a 1956 feature film compiled by Studio Films, Inc. from previously recorded Snader Telescriptions featuring renowned African American jazz singers and musicians from the 1950s. Performers include Willie Bryant, Sarah Vaughan, Lionel Hampton, Paul Williams, Jimmy Brown, Amos Milbur, Faye Adams, Coles and Atkins, Herb Jefferies, Cab Calloway, Count Basie, The Clovers, Nat King Cole, Martha Davis, Frank Foster, Mantan Moreland, Nipsey Russell, and Marie Bryant.
- Description
- 35mm black and white compilation film of a variety of short musical 'Soundie' films made for music-film jukeboxes, and television, by the Snader Telescription and Studio companies in the 1950s. It consists of four 35mm prints (a-d).
- The film begins with a title sequence that announces each performer as a firework explodes behind their name. This is followed by a shot of a theater marquee with the title Basin Street Revue. A credit roll then displays the below the line contributors. Next, an announcer introduces the emcee, Willie Bryant, during a shot of a theater audience. Bryant emerges from behind a curtain as the audience applauds. As Bryant begins to speak, Nipsy Russell walks across the stage and interrupts Bryant with a joke about his mother in law. Bryant then begins his introduction of the show’s proceedings; he refers to the show as the “Harlem Variety Revue.” Bryant then introduces the first performer, Lionel Hampton and his orchestra. The curtain parts and Hampton and his orchestra perform “Ding Dong Baby.” An unknown woman joins Hampton on the stage as he sings, but does not sing herself; he gives her a kiss on the cheek before she exits. After the conclusion of the song, the curtain closes and there are multiple shots of the audience cheering as Willie Bryant again appears to announce the next performer, Sarah Vaughan, who performs “You’re Not The Kind.” The song concludes, the curtain closes, and there are multiple shots of the cheering audience as Bryant emerges to introduce the next performers, Jimmy Brown, the saxophonist from the Apollo Theater’s house band, the Paul Williams Band. Bryant and Brown engage in some stage banter before the performance of “My Love Is True.” The song concludes, the curtain closes, and there are multiple shots of the cheering audience as Bryant emerges to introduce the next performer, Martha Davis, who performs “We Just Couldn’t Say Goodbye.” Bryant mentions that Davis is performing with her spouse, bassist, Calvin Ponder. There are multiple insert shots of the audience during the performance. The song concludes, the curtain closes, and there are multiple shots of the cheering audience as Nipsy Russell and Mantan Moreland enter the stage. They perform a short comedy routine together before Bryant introduces the next performer, Amos Milburn. He performs “Bewildered.” The song concludes, the curtain closes, and Bryant has the curtain reopened so Milburn can take a bow. The curtain again closes and Bryant invites Faye Adams onto the stage. The engage in some brief stage banter before she performs “Somebody, Somewhere” in front of the curtain. Jimmy Brown emerges from behind the curtain to perform a solo. The song concludes, there are multiple shots of the cheering audience, and Bryant introduces the next performers, The Clovers, who perform “Lovey Dovey.” The song concludes, the curtain closes, and there are multiple shots of the cheering audience as Bryant emerges to introduce Sarah Vaughan for a performance of “These Things I Offer You (For A Lifetime).” The song concludes, the curtain closes, there are multiple shots of the cheering audience, and Bryant introduces Coles & Atkins. The duo sing and them perform a tap dance routine. Their performance concludes, they bow and Bryant introduces Herb Jeffries by way of a brief skit. Jeffries performs “A Woman Is A Worrisome Thing” from the balcony of a fire escape. The song concludes, the curtain closes, there are multiple shots of the cheering audience, and Bryant introduces Cab Calloway, who performs “Calloway Boogie.” Calloway dances with an unknown female dancer. A “The End” title card appears as the song and the film conclude.
- Place depicted
- Harlem, New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Collection title
- Pearl Bowser Collection
- Classification
- Media Arts-Film and Video
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Pearl Bowser
- Object number
- 2012.79.1.85.1a-d
- Restrictions & Rights
- © Studio Films, Inc. Permission required for use.
-
"The Funniest Woman in the World:" Moms Mabley Onstage
- Recorded by
- Mabley, Moms, American, 1897 - 1975
- Distributed by
- Chess Records, American, founded 1950
- Owned by
- Ginger Smock, American, 1920 - 1995
- Date
- 1961
- Medium
- vinyl, ink on paper
- Dimensions
- Diameter (vinyl disc): 12 in. (30.5 cm)
- H x W (sleeve): 12 5/16 × 12 5/16 in. (31.3 × 31.3 cm)
- Description
- A 33 1/3 rpm record album titled "The Funniest Woman in the World:" Moms Mabley Onstage recorded by Moms Mabley. The front of album cover features a color photograph of Moms Mabley sitting on stage holding a microphone in her proper right hand. Yellow and white type at top of cover reads "'the funniest woman in the world' / MOMS MABLEY ONSTAGE / CHESS LP 1447." The back of the record cover consists of black type against a white background and features a review from Redd Foxx. The vinyl disc has a black inner circle with silver type.
- Classification
- Media Arts-Audio Recordings
- Topic
- Amusements
- Comedy
- Women
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Lydia Samuel Bennett
- Object number
- 2016.161.3.8ab
- Restrictions & Rights
- © Universal Music Group. Permission required for use.
-
Toys With the World
- Recorded by
- Cambridge, Godfrey, American, 1933 - 1976
- Distributed by
- Epic Records, American, founded 1953
- Owned by
- Ginger Smock, American, 1920 - 1995
- Date
- 1966
- Medium
- vinyl, ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W (album jacket): 12 5/16 × 12 5/16 in. (31.3 × 31.3 cm)
- Diameter (record): 12 in. (30.5 cm)
- Description
- A twelve-inch 33 1/3 rpm LP recording of the album "Toys With the World" recorded by Godfrey Cambridge. The album cover is white with black text. Godfrey Cambridge is pictured at center wearing a superman costume. He is holding a globe, a toy spear, stuffed animals and other toys. He is smiling and looking to his right.
- Classification
- Media Arts-Audio Recordings
- Topic
- Amusements
- Comedy
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Lydia Samuel Bennett
- Object number
- 2016.161.3.9ab
- Restrictions & Rights
- Unknown - Restrictions Possible
-
Lobby card for the film Ebony Parade
- Published by
- Astor Pictures, American, 1930 - 1963
- Subject of
- Calloway, Cab, American, 1907 - 1994
- Basie, Count, American, 1904 - 1984
- Smythe, Vanita, American, 1925 - 1994
- Lee, Mable, American, 1921 - 2019
- Moreland, Mantan, American, 1902 - 1973
- Dandridge, Dorothy, American, 1922 - 1965
- Everett, Francine, American, 1915 - 1999
- Date
- 1947
- Medium
- ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W: 11 × 14 in. (28 × 35.5 cm)
- Description
- Lobby card for the 1947 film Ebony Parade. The card features a yellow background with red and white text. The rectangular lobby card has a large, tinted color image from the film on the upper left side. In the image Mabel Lee is sitting on a blue table wearing a two piece black costume. Seated at the table next to her is Mantan Moreland dressed as a female fortune teller, his hands on a crystal ball on top of the table. Mabel Lee is also resting her right hand on the crystal ball. A yellow curtain is behind them. To the right of the image are colored head shots of performers appearing in the film, including Moreland, Dorothy Dandridge, Count Basie, Mabel Lee, Vanita Smythe, Cab Calloway, and Francine Everett. Musical clefs and notes are behind the head shots. Printed text on the bottom of the card reads "ASTOR PICTURES / Presents / EBONY PARADE" and "with Cab Calloway / HIS BAND / Count Basie / HIS BAND / Vanita Smythe / Mabel Lee / and many others." The card has a yellowish white border. Printed in black ink in the bottom right corner is [Country of Origin U. S. A.]. The back of the lobby card is blank.
- Place used
- United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Memorabilia and Ephemera-Advertisements
- Type
- lobby cards
- Topic
- Actors
- Advertising
- Comedy
- Conductors (Musicians)
- Dance
- Entertainers
- Film
- Instrumentalists (Musicians)
- Jazz (Music)
- Musical films
- Musicians
- Race films
- Singers (Musicians)
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Object number
- 2019.22.13
- Restrictions & Rights
- Public domain
-
Hav Plenty
- Distributed by
- Miramax Films, founded 1979
- Written by
- Cherot, Christopher Scott, American, born 1967
- Subject of
- Lee, Robinne, American, born 1974
- Maxwell, Chenoa, American, born 1969
- Jones, Tammi Katherine, American, born 1970
- Wanderlust Pictures, Inc., American, founded 1997
- Buena Vista Home Entertainment, American, founded 1997
- Date
- 1998
- Medium
- plastic and metal on polyester with cardboard
- Dimensions
- H x W x D: 7 1/2 × 4 3/16 × 1 1/16 in. (19 × 10.7 × 2.7 cm)
- Caption
- "Hav Plenty" is a 1997 film starring Christopher Scott Cherot, Chenoa Maxwell, Tammi Katherine Jones, and Robinne Lee. The film was written and directed by Christopher Scott Cherot. The story focuses on Cherot’s character, Lee Plenty, who is invited by friend, Havilland Savage, to her home on New Year's Eve. Hav Plenty, was screened at the Acapulco Black Film Festival (ABFF) in 1997. The film screening resulted in a Best of Festival win for Christopher Scott Cherot. Following the screening, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds attached himself and added some music. The film was later acquired and distributed by Miramax the following year. Christopher Scott Cherot won Best Screenplay at the 1999 ABFF.
- Description
- VHS video cassette tape titled "Hav Plenty." The film is approximately ninety minutes and was written, directed, and produced by Christopher Scott Cherot. The video cassette is stored in its original cardboard case and is wrapped in shrink wrap. The front of the case features a color photograph of the main characters depicted clockwise as: Lee Plenty (Christopher Scott Cherot), Havilland Savage (Chenoa Maxwell), Caroline Gooden (Tammi Katherine Jones), and Leigh Darling (Robinne Lee). The three (3) women are smiling and resting their heads on Cherot’s torso. Cherot is resting his chin on Maxwell’s head. The film’s title is printed in yellow and blue across the bottom of the case. The image is set against a blue background with yellow and white text that reads [The Sexy / New Comedy From / The Producers of Soul Food / “Hilarious!” / -Premiere Magazine / “Witty!” / -The New York Times.]. The back of the case features a plot summary, critic’s blurbs, a barcode, three color photographic stills from the movie, and production information. There are two (2), white, identical stamps on the plastic shrink wrap on the front of the cassette that read [[Disney castle] Buena Vista / Home Entertainment].
- Place made
- United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Media Arts-Film and Video
- Type
- videocassettes
- Topic
- Comedy
- Hollywood (Film)
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Jeff and Nicole Friday
- Object number
- 2019.55.7
- Restrictions & Rights
- © Buena Vista Home Entertainment. Permission required for use.
-
The Side-Splitter
- Recorded by
- Foxx, Redd, American, 1922 - 1991
- Distributed by
- Dootone Record Corporation, American, 1951 - ca. 1975
- Owned by
- Ginger Smock, American, 1920 - 1995
- Date
- 1959
- Medium
- vinyl, ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W (album jacket): 12 5/16 × 12 5/16 in. (31.3 × 31.3 cm)
- Diameter (record): 12 in. (30.5 cm)
- Description
- A twelve-inch 33 1/3 rpm LP recording of the album "The Side-Splitter" recorded by Redd Foxx. The front of the album jacket is black, orange, red and yellow with white and red text. An image of Redd Foxx is at the bottom right corner. He is wearing a plaid suite and has his right hand raised and he is making a smoking gesture. A woman sitting on pillows at center left.
- Classification
- Media Arts-Audio Recordings
- Topic
- Amusements
- Comedy
- Entertainers
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Lydia Samuel Bennett
- Object number
- 2016.161.3.12.1ab
- Restrictions & Rights
- Unknown - Restrictions Possible
-
The Youngest Teenager
- Published by
- Mercury Records, American, founded 1945
- Recorded by
- Mabley, Moms, American, 1897 - 1975
- Date
- 1969
- Medium
- vinyl and ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W (album jacket): 12 5/16 x 12 5/16 in. (31.3 x 31.3 cm)
- H x W (disc): 12 x 12 in. (30.5 x 30.5 cm)
- Description
- A twelve-inch 33 1/3 rpm LP recording of the album "The Youngest Teenager" by Moms Mabley. Mabley is wearing a blue and white floral dress with blue plaid stockings, a blue cardigan and a blue hat. Her hands are on her hips and a speech bubble says [what / generation / gap?]. Her reflection in the mirror also has her hands on her hips but the blue floral dress has changed into a skirt and crop top. The crop top is exposing her chest. Her reflection is wearing tall white boots and the same blue hat. The title [moms mabley / the youngest teenager] is printed in yellow and blue letters at the top right corner of the album cover.
- Place made
- New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Media Arts-Audio Recordings
- Topic
- Comedy
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Savanna Vaughn and C. Warfield Clark, M.D.
- Object number
- 2011.173.54ab
- Restrictions & Rights
- All original material originated and copyrighted by Moms Mabley and Eddie Parton. Permission required for use.
-
Detroit Lions jacket worn by Eddie Murphy in the film Beverly Hills Cop II
- Created by
- Albion Knitting Mills, American, 1923 - 1998
- Worn by
- Murphy, Eddie, American, born 1961
- Date
- 1987
- On ViewCulture/Fourth Floor, 4 054
- Exhibition
- Taking the Stage
- Medium
- wool, leather, rayon, synthetic fiber, and metal snaps
- Dimensions
- H x W: 27 1/4 x 20 1/4 in. (69.2 x 51.4 cm)
- H x W x D (On Form): 26 1/2 x 26 x 15 in. (67.3 x 66 x 38.1 cm)
- Description
- This black and off-white Detroit Lions letterman jacket was worn by Eddie Murphy in the film Beverly Hills Cop II (1987). The jacket is made from black felted wool with off-white leather sleeves. Ribbed knitted synthetic fabric with a blue and white stripe design on a black ground is attached as the fold-over collar, the cuffs of each sleeve, and around the hem of the jacket body. The jacket closes at the center front using seven (7) metal snaps painted black on the facing side. There are two (2) diagonally set welted pockets, one at each front side waist, with the welts made from the off-white leather. Appliqued hooked thread designs are attached at the proper left chest, across the back, and on the sleeves just below the shoulder seam. The design on the proper left front consists of gray letters reading "LIONS" over a gray, white, and blue football helmet that has the Detroit Lions mascot on the helmet. The design on the back of the jacket consists of gray letters reading "DETROIT" above a larger version of the football helmet and gray letters below the helmet reading "LIONS". The number "67" in black is on each sleeve.
- The jacket is fully lined in dark gray rayon. A black fabric label with gold embroidered stitching is sewn at the center back below the collar that reads "Albion / AWARD / Jacket / ALBION KNITTING MILLS / GARDENA, CALIFORNIA / WOOL FABRIC / PROFESSIONALLY DRY CLEAN ONLY / MADE IN U.S.A.". A size tag is sewn to the bottom of the label. A label with style, content, and care information is sewn into the interior proper right side seam near the waist.
- Classification
- Clothing-Costume
- Type
- jackets
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Object number
- 2012.109.1
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
Film poster for Cooley High
- Created by
- American International Pictures, 1956 - 1980
- Subject of
- Schultz, Michael, American, born 1938
- Turman, Glynn, American, born 1947
- Hilton-Jacobs, Lawrence, American, born 1953
- Morris, Garrett, American, born 1937
- Monte, Eric, American, born 1943
- Date
- 1975
- On ViewConcourse 1, C1 053
- Exhibition
- A Changing America: 1968 and Beyond
- Medium
- lithographic ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W: 41 1/8 x 27 3/16 in. (104.5 x 69.1 cm)
- Description
- Movie poster with large black and white photographic image of two girls and three boys, standing next to a brick building with barred window. Tagline above image in black text [MEET THE STUDENT / WELCOMING COMMITTEE / OF COOLEY HIGH] Title under image in pink on a black background [Cooley High] Billing block in black text at bottom. Poster identified as [STYLE B]. NSS number 75/101. Handwritten 40 in pencil in bottom right corner. Back is blank white.
- Place depicted
- Chicago, Cook County, Illinois, United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Memorabilia and Ephemera-Advertisements
- Type
- posters
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Leith Adams
- Object number
- 2010.7.65
- Restrictions & Rights
- © 1975 American International Pictures . Permission required for use.
-
When I Was a Kid
- Recorded by
- Cosby, Bill, American, born 1937
- Distributed by
- Universal City Records, American, 1966 - 1972
- Date
- 1971
- Medium
- vinyl, ink on paper
- Dimensions
- Diameter (vinyl disc): 11 7/8 in. (30.2 cm)
- cardboards sleeve: 12 3/8 × 12 3/8 × 1/8 in. (31.4 × 31.4 × 0.3 cm)
- H x W (paper sleeve): 12 5/16 × 12 5/16 in. (31.3 × 31.3 cm)
- Description
- A 33 1/3 rpm record album titled "When I Was a Kid" recorded by Bill Cosby. The front of the record sleeve features a color illustration of Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids hanging out in front of a movie theater. Green, red, and white text on the front cover reads "BILL COSBY "WHEN I WAS A KID" / STEREO 73100 / ©UNIVERSAL CITY RECORDS / A DIVISION OF MCA INC. 1971 PRINTED IN U.S.A. / Recorded Live at THE WESTBURY MUSIC FAIR." The reverse side of record sleeve consists of black type set against a white background and features a track list and dedication from Bill Cosby. The vinyl disc has yellow, green, blue, and purple inner circle with black type. The album includes a paper sleeve.
- Place made
- Westbury, Nassau County, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Media Arts-Audio Recordings
- Topic
- Amusements
- Comedy
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Object number
- 2013.101.10a-c
- Restrictions & Rights
- © Universal City Records - A Division of MCA Inc 1971. Permission required for use.
-
Why Is There Air?
- Recorded by
- Cosby, Bill, American, born 1937
- Distributed by
- Warner Bros. Records, Inc., American, founded 1958
- Date
- 1965
- Medium
- vinyl, ink on paper
- Dimensions
- Diameter (vinyl disc): 11 15/16 in. (30.3 cm)
- cardboard sleeve: 12 3/8 × 12 3/8 × 1/8 in. (31.4 × 31.4 × 0.3 cm)
- H x W (paper sleeve): 12 5/16 × 12 5/16 in. (31.3 × 31.3 cm)
- Description
- A 33 1/3 rpm record album titled "Why Is There Air?" recorded by Bill Cosby. The front of the record cover features a color photograph of Bill Cosby wearing a Temple University shirt and holding a white volleyball. Blue and red type on the front cover reads, "BILL COSBY / WHY IS THERE AIR? / WARNER BROS. / RECORDS / 1606." The Warner Brothers logo appears in the top right corner. The reverse side of the record cover features a large black and white photograph of Bill Cosby's head, as well as a track list and a biography.The vinyl disc has a brown inner circle with black type. The album includes a paper sleeve
- Classification
- Media Arts-Audio Recordings
- Topic
- Amusements
- Comedy
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Object number
- 2013.101.11a-c
- Restrictions & Rights
- © Warner Bros. Records. Permission required for use.