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Snakes Hips

The Georgians

Arthur Schutt , Chauncey Morehouse , Frank Guarente, Johnny O'Donnell, Russ Morgan, Russell Deppe

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This recording was produced in New York City on March 15th 1923 featuring Frank Guarente trumpet & leader, Russ Morgan trombone, Johnny O'Donnell clarinet, bass clarinet, & alto sax, Arthur Schutt piano, Russell Deppe banjo, and Chauncey Morehouse drums.

*"Snakes Hips" was composed by Spencer Williams.

For the "Original Memphis Five's" rendition Click Here.

The 1922 discovery of the tomb of Egyptian pharaoh, Tutankhamun promoted an infatuation with all things Egyptian throughout America and Europe. In response to the growing trend songwriters wrote drawing on far Eastern themes. Composer, Spencer Williams would make his own contribution with an original work titled "Snakes Hips" as a reference to belly dancing.

Another inspiration came in the form of a dance known as the "Snake Hips" first popularized in Harlem by Earl 'Snakehips' Tucker around 1922. Billed as the "Human Boa Constrictor", Tucker frequented the Savoy Ballroom where he based an entire act around such undulations.