Artist description Sylvester "Vess" Ossman was an incredible talent. Born on August 21, 1868 in New York, by the late 1890's he had made a name for himself on an international level. Credited with not only introducing Ragtime music to white middle class America, Vess (also known as "Plunks" by his contemporaries and frequently referred to as the "King Of The Banjo" by his legions of fans worldwide) was the first artist ever to record a Ragtime song, on a wax cylinder recording for Edison Records. He was also the first artist to record for Columbia Records. He performed around the world, including two performances for the King and Queen of England. After making his last recordings in late 1917 or early 1918, Ossman led hotel dance orchestras in Dayton and Indianapolis. He died in Minneapolis on December 8, 1923, after suffering a heart attack onstage. Please enjoy these unique and original stylings of this beloved turn of the century artist. These recordings are from original wax cylinders produced by Edison Records, Columbia Records, Consolidated Talking Machine Co. and Victor Records between the years 1899-1917. This music appears courtesy of the great grandson of Mr. Ossman

Music Style Ragtime, Banjo

Musical Influences He is a pioneer

Similar Artists Vess L. Ossman

Group Members Vess Ossman

Location La Mesa, California - USA

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