[Dixielandjazz] Tiger

[Jim Kashishian]

Ron asks:
I wonder if those who dislike Tiger Rag have ever tried to play it in an
authentic way or if they settle for the simplified version that one usually
hears.

What's that "simplified version", Ron?  If you're referring to the overly
fast version that is normally heard, I have several recordings from top
bands that play it even faster than we do (& that's saying something!), and
they are all marvelous.

Tiger Rag is a rip roaring, fun way to end a gig.  Always gets applause, and
a demand for "more", or as they say here "bis, bis".  That means it's a good
tune, in my opinion.  Maybe not musically challenging, but it can be a
challenge to a band to make it a show tune.  And, if you get to that point,
the chances of more gigs increases.  Nothing like a standing, screaming
house to make sure you get invited back.

Jim