Black Music Project on Spoutible

Known as "the King of Ragtime," his works helped give America its cultural music identity beyond Europe. Though he died at 48, his music lives on.

He once told a friend, "When I'm dead twenty-five years, people are going to recognize me." #BlackHistoryMonth

Can you name this entertainer?

A drawing of a suited Black man from the early 20th century composing at an upright piano. Next to the illustration is the question: Born near Texarkana in the 1860s, he was known as "the King of Ragtime." His works helped give America its cultural music identity beyond European traditions. His music continues though he died at 48, nearly destitute in a mental asylum. He once told his friend, "When I'm dead twenty-five years, people are going to recognize me."
His composition "The Entertainer" was used as the theme for the 1973-Oscar-winning film The Sting. Marvin Hamlisch's adaptation reached No. 3 on the Billboard pop chart.
Can you name this composer?

06:42 PM - Feb 15, 2023

Sarah Apfel

@apfel_sarah

In response to Black Music Project.

Scott Joplin. 💛

07:37 PM - Feb 15, 2023

Black Music Project

@blackmusicproject

In response to Sarah Apfel.

You are correct! It is the one and only Scott Joplin! Though he died nearly penniless, his work became an American classic. His composition "The Entertainer" was used as the theme for the 1973-Oscar-winning film The Sting. Marvin Hamlisch's adaptation reached No. 3 on the Billboard pop chart.

07:43 PM - Feb 15, 2023

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