Soundies: A Musical History Hosted by Michael Feinstein

Overview

Before the rise of MTV, Soundies emerged in 1941 as pioneering three-minute black-and-white films showcasing the vibrant talents of the Big Band, Jazz, and Swing eras. Featured artists included legends like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Louis Armstrong, with the format also propelling stars such as Doris Day and Nat King Cole into the spotlight. These early music videos were accessed through Panoram machines, akin to jukeboxes, in various public venues across America. Serving as fascinating time capsules, Soundies reflect a transformative period in American history marked by social change and technological advancement.