Billy Murray - Waiting For The Robert E. Lee

Murray (1877-1954) was one of the most popular US singers in the early decades of the 20th century. While he received star billings on Vaudeville, he was best known for his prolific work in the recording studio. He became fascinated with the theater and joined a traveling vaudeville troupe in 1893. He also performed in minstrel shows early in his career. He made his first recordings for a local phonograph cylinder company in San Francisco, California in 1897. He started recording regularly in the New York City and New Jersey area in 1903. In 1906 he waxed the first of his popular duets with Ada Jones. He also performed with Aileen Stanley, the Haydn Quartet, and the American Quartet (also known as the Premier Quartet), in addition to his solo work. Murray's popularity faded with changes in public taste and recording technology; the rise of the electric microphone in the mid 1920s coincided with the rise of the crooners. While his singing style was considered "dated" and was less in demand, he continued to find recording work. By the late 1920s and early 1930s, the music from his salad days was considered nostalgic and Murray was in demand again. He did voices for animated cartoons and radio work. Murray made his last recordings in 1943 and retired in 1944. This fine record was made in 1912. Murray was accompanied by the Heidelberg Quintette.