NRR Project: 'Let's Go Out to the Programs' (Nov. 1953)

NRR Project: “Let’s Go Out to the Programs”

Composed by Ira Tucker

Performed by the Dixie Hummingbirds

Recorded Nov. 1953

2:51

Another selection I, regrettably, know precious little about. Read Jerry Zolten’s comprehensive essay on this song and the milieu of its time at the National Recording Registry here.

Here, the group promotes the “programs,” basically song contests between gospel singing groups, which were popular at the time. The Dixie Hummingbirds show off their technical chops by imitating four of their competitors. And they do a great job – if you know these other groups, then the Hummingbirds hauntingly cop their styles.

It sold more than a half million copies. It’s a fun record that’s not mean-spirited in any way. These guys are having fun, and they invite us to have fun with them.

The National Recording Registry Project tracks one writer’s expedition through all the recordings in the National Recording Registry in chronological order. Next time: My Funny Valentine.