According to David Becker (from the website Jazz in America), the first recording by an all-black band occurred in 1921 when Edward “Kid” Ory and his Sunshine Orchestra recorded the songs “Creole Trombone” and “Society Blues.” Kid Ory had a prolific musical career, but he is often overshadowed by other famous jazz musicians of color, such as Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, so we are giving Kid Ory his props here. Above is another of our favorite Kid Ory’s compositions. Enjoy!