Here's a cracker I've just come across.
The recording dates from 1915.
Note the double entendres.


http://66.249.93.104/search?q=cache:kCzYOAOfvW0J:www.firstworldwar.com/audio/alittlebitofcucumber.htm+%22I+like+pickled+onions% 22&hl=en&gl=uk&ct=clnk&cd=5

This is what an entire generation fought and died for on the Somme? (Actually, the performance is infectious. Isn't there an old record of Maggie Thatcher singing the same number, at a Tory convention in Brighton?)

David,
Marvellous. I was looking for his wonderful "Boiled Beef and Carrots" when I chanced on this classic.

As a tribute to Henry Quince here is a beauty:

Henery VIII by Harry Champion
http://www.archive.org/details/HarryChampion

[This message has been edited by Janet Kenny (edited April 27, 2006).]

Michael, when you think about it, yes, that's exactly what the Brits fought and died for, in both world wars.

If you can find the Maggie Thatcher recording you will become very rich. I volunteer to be your agent.

Janet, I like it, but I prefer the Herman's Hermits version.

Best wishes,
David

Ahhh, David, so refreshing. Thanks!

KEB

PS - It's also, Michael, not as naif as it sounds. The song itself is a declaration of what's worth fighting for. One of the most distressing things about Blair's Britain is the erosion of a nation's laughter.

PPS - The mere mention of Thatcher is still enough to make me want to leave the room but at least back then we knew who the enemy was!

oh and by the way - NOTE the double entendres? Try stepping ROUND them! I love England...

I don't think my original link was the best one. Try this:

http://www.firstworldwar.com/audio/a...ofcucumber.htm

Then you can click where indicated and hear the original 1915 recording: talk about a rave from the grave.

Best,
David

I thought it was delightful, too, but I didn't even pick up on the single entendres.

-- Frank

I couldn't make out every word but it sure is hilarious. I'm pretty sure one of the refrains goes: "Little bit of cucum, I cum, you cum, little bit of cucumber"!

Kate, you are right. I had missed that entirely, but re-listening carefully that's exactly what he says near the end; so it says something we didn't necessarily know about our great-grandfathers.
I wish I had a dirty mind like what you have got.
Best,
David

Great grandfathers were different from other generations?! http://www.ablemuse.com/erato/ubbhtml/smile.gif As a critic once observed about Restoration drama: "It proves a dirty mind is a joy forever."

You're right of course, Jan.
And come to think of it, it was my grandfather(s).
I just can't imagine him behaving that way, but of course Gran could, so here I am.
Best,
David