Vess L. Ossman: Maple Leaf Rag (Vintage Music)

So-called ‘The Banjo King’, Ossman was highly influential in the early days of recorded music. He began recording in 1893 and became one of the most frequently recorded musicians of the time.

He made his final recordings in 1917 for Columbia Records, following which Ossman continued to tour and play without putting it to tape. He then died whilst on tour with B. F. Keith’s Vaudeville houses.

Maple Leaf Rag has to be his most notable recording and is likely still a recognisable tune to most ears to this day.