Deaths on February 12

Eubie Blake, American pianist and composer (b. 1887)

James Hubert "Eubie" Blake (February 7, 1887 – February 12, 1983) stands as a monumental figure in the tapestry of American music. Spanning an extraordinary 96 years, his life bridged the post-Civil War era into the late 20th century, allowing him to witness and shape the evolution of popular music firsthand. Blake was a remarkably versatile and gifted individual, renowned as an American pianist whose virtuosic style captivated audiences, an insightful lyricist, and a prolific composer whose works graced the genres of ragtime, jazz, and popular music with innovation and enduring appeal.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Blake's musical journey began at an astonishingly young age. He reportedly taught himself to play on a pump organ at just six years old, soon transitioning to the piano and immersing himself in the vibrant sounds of early American popular music. His prodigious talent led him to perform in vaudeville and minstrel shows during his formative years, honing his skills as a performer and composer who could effortlessly blend melody with rhythm.

The Groundbreaking Success of Shuffle Along

In 1921, Eubie Blake cemented his place in history with a collaboration that would shatter racial barriers and redefine American musical theatre. Alongside his long-time creative partner, Noble Sissle, a brilliant lyricist and singer, Blake co-wrote and composed Shuffle Along. This landmark production was not merely a successful musical; it was a profound cultural phenomenon.

• A First for Broadway: Shuffle Along holds the distinction of being one of the first Broadway musicals entirely written, produced, and directed by African Americans. This achievement was revolutionary at a time when opportunities for Black artists in mainstream theatre were severely limited.
• Unprecedented Success: The musical ran for over 500 performances, an extraordinary feat for its era, especially for a Black production. Its immense popularity demonstrated the commercial viability and artistic brilliance of African American creators and performers.
• Breaking Racial Barriers: Beyond its artistic merit, Shuffle Along played a crucial role in breaking down racial segregation in entertainment. It introduced integrated audiences to Broadway, allowing Black patrons to sit in the orchestra section – a rarity before its debut.
• Launching Careers: The show became a springboard for many Black artists who would go on to achieve international fame, including Florence Mills and Josephine Baker, showcasing a wealth of talent previously unseen on such a prominent stage.
• Musical Innovation: Blake's score for Shuffle Along blended the syncopated rhythms of ragtime with the emerging sounds of jazz, creating a lively and engaging theatrical experience that captivated audiences.

Eubie Blake's Enduring Compositions

Throughout his extensive career, Eubie Blake crafted a rich catalog of songs, many of which became timeless standards. His compositions reflected his mastery of various musical styles and his innate ability to write memorable melodies and poignant lyrics.

• "Charleston Rag": Composed as early as 1899 and published in 1915, this piece is often cited as one of the earliest published ragtime compositions by an African American composer, showcasing Blake's complex and virtuosic piano style.
• "Love Will Find a Way": A tender and romantic ballad from Shuffle Along, this song was significant for featuring a love song between two Black characters on a Broadway stage, challenging prevailing stereotypes.
• "Memories of You": Co-written with Andy Razaf in 1930, this poignant and elegant standard has been recorded by countless jazz and popular music artists, solidifying its place in the Great American Songbook.
• "I'm Just Wild About Harry": Another iconic hit from Shuffle Along, this energetic and catchy tune became a perennial favorite and was even used as a campaign song by Harry S. Truman in 1948.
• "Bandana Days": A lively and spirited number from Shuffle Along, emblematic of the show's overall exuberance and charm.

A Lasting Legacy: The Eubie! Musical and Beyond

Even after a period of semi-retirement in the mid-20th century, Eubie Blake experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity during the ragtime revival of the 1970s. His enduring spirit and musical genius were celebrated anew, introducing his work to a younger generation.

In 1978, a Broadway musical revue simply titled Eubie! opened to critical acclaim. This vibrant production showcased his vast catalog of compositions, featuring a cast of singers and dancers performing his most beloved works. The show earned several Tony Award nominations and served as a powerful testament to Blake's lasting influence and the timeless quality of his music. Living nearly a century, Eubie Blake remained an active and vibrant performer well into his 90s, offering audiences a direct link to the golden age of ragtime and early jazz. His contributions were further recognized in 1981 when he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, cementing his status as a true American treasure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eubie Blake

What was Eubie Blake's primary contribution to American music?

Eubie Blake's primary contribution was his innovative work as a composer, pianist, and lyricist across ragtime, jazz, and popular music. He was instrumental in bringing Black music and talent to the forefront of American entertainment, most notably through the groundbreaking Broadway musical Shuffle Along.

Why was Shuffle Along historically significant?

Shuffle Along was historically significant because it was one of the first Broadway musicals entirely written, produced, and directed by African Americans. It broke racial barriers on stage and in audiences, launched the careers of many Black performers, and demonstrated the immense commercial and artistic potential of Black creative talent.

What genres did Eubie Blake compose in?

Eubie Blake was proficient and prolific in several genres, primarily composing ragtime, jazz, and popular music. His work often blended these styles, showcasing his versatility and innovative approach to American musical forms.

Did Eubie Blake receive any major awards or honors?

Yes, Eubie Blake received significant recognition for his contributions to music and culture. In 1981, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.

How long was Eubie Blake active as a musician?

Eubie Blake had an extraordinarily long and active career, spanning over 80 years. He began playing professionally in the late 19th century and continued to perform and compose almost until his death at 96 years old, making him a living bridge to several eras of American music.