“Alabama Jubilee” was written in 1915, with music by George L. Cobb and words by Jack Yellen. A bright ragtime number, it was first recorded that year by the vaudeville duo Collins and Harlan and became an American popular standard.
Though it began as a song, “Alabama Jubilee” has long been played as an instrumental showpiece. Its lively, syncopated melody, evoking a festive Southern gathering, suits flatpicked guitar and string bands, and recordings such as the Ferko String Band’s helped keep it a favorite.
The tune has been a staple for bluegrass and old-time pickers, who use it to show off speed and swing. The version heard here is by the guitarist David Grier.
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