The albums that define
ragtime.
Our picks for where to start with ragtime — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
The ragtime essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Dave Van Ronk
Inside Dave Van Ronk
A poignant blend of traditional folk and blues, underscored by Van Ronk's gravelly voice and intricate guitar work.
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Mississippi John Hurt
American Epic: The Best of Mississippi John Hurt
A heartfelt collection of Delta blues, blending intricate fingerpicking with soulful storytelling and timeless melodies.
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Leon Redbone
Double Time
A nostalgic blend of ragtime rhythms and bluesy melodies that evoke a bygone era.
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Leon Redbone
From Branch to Branch
A whimsical blend of ragtime, blues, and jazz infused with Leon Redbone's distinctive baritone and playful charm.
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Leon Redbone
Champagne Charlie
A whimsical blend of ragtime, blues, and jazz that transports listeners to a bygone era of musical charm.
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Leon Redbone
On the Track
A nostalgic blend of ragtime and blues, infused with Redbone's warm, gravelly vocals and playful instrumentation.
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Leon Redbone
Christmas Island
A nostalgic blend of jazz and blues, infused with a warm, playful holiday spirit.
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Dave Van Ronk
Peter and the Wolf
A whimsical blend of folk and blues storytelling, filled with playful melodies and rich character voices.
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Dave Van Ronk
No Dirty Names
A tapestry of folk, blues, and ragtime infused with Van Ronk's gritty, soulful vocals and storytelling prowess.
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Dave Van Ronk
Van Ronk
A soulful blend of folk and blues, steeped in storytelling and evocative melodies.
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Dave Van Ronk
Two Sides of Dave Van Ronk
A rich tapestry of blues, folk, and ragtime that showcases Van Ronk's storytelling prowess and deep musical roots.
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Dave Van Ronk
Songs for Ageing Children
A rich tapestry of folk and blues that weaves storytelling with poignant reflections on life and loss.
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Dave Van Ronk
Dave Van Ronk and the Hudson Dusters
Eclectic folk-infused blues intertwines with playful storytelling and ragtime rhythms, showcasing Van Ronk's unique vocal delivery.
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Dave Van Ronk
Sunday Street
A rich tapestry of blues and folk, laced with Van Ronk's signature storytelling and ragtime influences.
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Dave Van Ronk
Somebody Else, Not Me
A tapestry of folk and blues, woven with Van Ronk's soulful voice and intricate guitar work.
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Dave Van Ronk
Just Dave Van Ronk
A rich blend of folk, blues, and ragtime infused with Van Ronk's gritty vocals and intricate guitar work.
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Dave Van Ronk
The Mayor of MacDougal Street
A vibrant tapestry of folk and blues infused with storytelling charm and ragtime energy.
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Scott Joplin
Scott Joplin: The Red Back Book
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Jelly Roll Morton
The Complete Library of Congress Recordings
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Mississippi John Hurt
Last Sessions
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