Gene Greene

Gene Greene (1881 – 1930) was an American vaudeville singer and recording artist, popular from the 1910s through the 1920s. He was best known for his "rag" songs and his distinctive "laughing" records, where he interspersed comedic laughter throughout the performance.

Greene was born in Aurora, Illinois. He began his career in minstrel shows and later transitioned to vaudeville, where he found success with his energetic performances and distinctive vocal style.

His recording career began around 1911. He recorded extensively for several labels including Edison, Victor, Columbia, and Okeh. Greene's most popular recordings include "King of the Bungaloos," "Alexander's Ragtime Band," and a series of "laughing" songs such as "The Funny Little Fellow With the Funny Little Nose" and "The Laughing Rag."

Greene's recordings are considered important examples of early 20th-century popular music and provide insight into the vaudeville era. His work influenced later performers and helped popularize ragtime and novelty songs. He died relatively young, in 1930, marking the end of a vibrant career in entertainment. His legacy continues through the preservation and enjoyment of his recordings.