The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Very rare circa 1898(?) Columbia brown wax cylinder by George W. Johnson singing his immortal "LAUGHING SONG".
Included is the hard to find original early Columbia brown wax cylinder box and lid with original cotton batting. The box has an incorrect label pasted on it and the penciled title on the lid does not match but this is how I bought it many years ago and this is how I'm offering it.

This cylinder plays best at about 120 rpm (ie. it plays best at a very S-L-O-W rotation)

The cylinder is very clearly announced as follows:

"MISTER GEORGE W. JOHNSON AND HIS GREAT LAUGHING SONG FOR THE COLUMBIA PHONOGRAPH COMPANY OF NEW YORK AND PARIS!!"

The cylinder plays fine start to finish with some light background surface noise. There is one tiny shallow surface pock mark that clicks for about 3 revolutions or so. It does not affect play.

You'll occasionally find George W. Johnson (one of the earliest black recording artists) on black wax but you will search far and wide to find ANY of his brown wax cylinders. Johnson's early recordings are significant historical artifacts.

PM with interest. USPS Priority Mail (USA address) will be included. International at cost. Thanks.

Doug

Very nice rare copy. That would be a nice one to make a mold from and duplicate.

Was this Laughing Song written by Uncle Josh?

Good afternoon, I was wondering if you still had this item? If so I would like to purchase it

Response sent by email. Thanks.

If it still available I will take it.

Barry