953 nut 57,586 #1 Posted February 2 The ukulele is a four-stringed instrument that has its origins in Portugal, but was adapted by Hawaiians in the 19th Century. Its size can vary, with the larger instruments producing deeper tones. The ukulele became particularly popular in Hawaii during the reign of King Kalākaua, who incorporated the instrument into performances at official state gatherings. It was later used in recordings by artists such as Bing Crosby and Elvis Presley. National Ukulele Day takes place on February 2, when ukulele players from around the country will strum their favorite tunes to celebrate. Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam released "Ukulele Songs," a collection of tracks solely featuring the ukulele in 2011. Singer Tiny Tim released his hit "Tiptoe through the Tulips," which features his signature voice and ukulele playing in 1968. In 1929 Hawaiian-born Yukihiko Haida gave the Japanese their first taste of the ukulele, playing Hawaiian and jazz music at the Moana Glee Club in Tokyo. 2 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JCM 9,993 #2 Posted February 2 I remember watching vividly Tiny Tim on the Ed Sullivan show in the early 60's. And of course the Beatles making their first appearance in the USA. Those both hooked me on stringed instruments. Remember Godfrey as well. I remember singing Tip Toe in front of anyone that wanted to hear it. I was the comedian in the family, some things never change through life, Thanks Dick 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SylvanLakeWH 27,250 #3 Posted February 2 (edited) My Mom brought back a ukulele from Hawaii in the early 50's... no one ever really learned to play it, but it was the ultimate guitar for aspiring 3-5 year olds... Thanks for the memories! Edited February 2 by SylvanLakeWH 1 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
6wheeler 661 #4 Posted February 6 Thanks JCM for turning me on to this section. I currently mess with an Alvarez tenor uke. Fun. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
