Columbia 78 (1958) – Elias & His Zig Zag Jive Flutes: Tom Hark / Ry‑Ry
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Description
A vibrant 1958 Columbia 78rpm release featuring Elias and His Zig Zag Jive Flutes, showcasing two of the most infectious South African jive recordings of the era. The A‑side presents the international hit “Tom Hark”, a bright, penny‑whistle‑driven tune whose catchy melody helped introduce township jive — later known as kwela — to audiences far beyond South Africa. The reverse features “Ry‑Ry”, an equally spirited track with lively flute interplay and rhythmic drive, capturing the raw street‑music energy that defined the genre.
This disc is a must‑have for collectors of kwela, African jive, world‑music 78s, and mid‑century Columbia releases. A culturally significant and highly enjoyable record from the height of the 1950s jive explosion.
1958, Kwela, and the Global Success of “Tom Hark”
By 1958, South African penny‑whistle jive had begun to reach international ears, and “Tom Hark” became one of the first kwela‑style recordings to achieve global recognition. Its street‑corner origins, jazz‑infused rhythms, and instantly memorable melody made it a breakout hit. Columbia’s UK release helped cement the tune’s place in popular culture, while tracks like “Ry‑Ry” showcased the depth and energy of the Zig Zag Jive Flutes’ repertoire. These 78s now stand as important artefacts of mid‑century African music history and its influence on world popular music.
Please check all photos that the condition meets your satisfaction. All records have been tested and play.
Columbia 78 (1958) – Elias & His Zig Zag Jive Flutes: Tom Hark / Ry‑Ry
A vibrant 1958 Columbia 78rpm release featuring Elias and His Zig Zag Jive Flutes, showcasing two of the most infectious South African jive recordings of the era. The A‑side presents the international hit “Tom Hark”, a bright, penny‑whistle‑driven tune whose catchy melody helped introduce township jive — later known as kwela — to audiences far beyond South Africa. The reverse features “Ry‑Ry”, an equally spirited track with lively flute interplay and rhythmic drive, capturing the raw street‑music energy that defined the genre.
This disc is a must‑have for collectors of kwela, African jive, world‑music 78s, and mid‑century Columbia releases. A culturally significant and highly enjoyable record from the height of the 1950s jive explosion.
1958, Kwela, and the Global Success of “Tom Hark”
By 1958, South African penny‑whistle jive had begun to reach international ears, and “Tom Hark” became one of the first kwela‑style recordings to achieve global recognition. Its street‑corner origins, jazz‑infused rhythms, and instantly memorable melody made it a breakout hit. Columbia’s UK release helped cement the tune’s place in popular culture, while tracks like “Ry‑Ry” showcased the depth and energy of the Zig Zag Jive Flutes’ repertoire. These 78s now stand as important artefacts of mid‑century African music history and its influence on world popular music.
Please check all photos that the condition meets your satisfaction. All records have been tested and play.
