[Dixielandjazz] Ukelele Ike

[dingle at baldwin-net.com]

Cliff Edwards a/k/a Ukelele Ike, was a lovely man and as kind to the 
musicains who backed him as anyone could hpe for. I know -- in  the week 
between Christmas of 1953 to New Years, I took over leadership of the 
Red  Ingle band at the Iriquois Gardens near Louisville. Red Was called 
to NY to so a TV special and the management okayed his leaving. Since 
there was a floor show of several acts, my role was basically to keep 
the band going playing the acts and dance muic. The headliner that came 
in for the Week was Edwards. His charts were simple -- a few cues, lead 
sheets, and rehearsal time was quick and easy. and he was very 
complimentary to the musicians. On New Year's eve, the final night for 
him and us, he gifted all the band with a little cash and a  couple jugs 
for our after hours wind down ( The area was relatively dry except for a 
few places like te Gardens or downbtown hotels so the liquid gesture was 
welcomed by all.)
I will admit that as a youngster I had loved the Jimminy Cricket 
character in the Disney film. Edwards came over as gentle and nice in 
life as he did as the character in Pinoccio. His mix of tunes and his 
style of delivery made one realize how good these old Vaudeville people 
were at their craft. It was one of the most enjoyable weeks I ever spent 
in the business. To remember him at  his mention in several posts has 
been a loving mind trip to the past and a renewed respect for Ukelele Ike.
I'll bet Bill Haesler has some of his recordings in his magical trove 
of  collected jazz. He may know of some sides reissued that we could 
glom onto -- eh, Bill?
Thanks, as Mr Hope noften reminded us, forthe memory.
Don Ingle