Unlike rival studio Warner Brothers, MGM was relatively very slow in transitioning to sound films. And, because they didn't have the technology nor experience of Warner and their Vitaphone unit, MGM needed to scramble and make a few experimental films to test out their new technology.
"George Dewey Washington" is a very unusual choice for one of their early sound films. This is because Washinton was NOT a minstrel (as you'd see Jolson in "The Jazz Singer") but was an actual black man....and instead of singing minstrel-type songs, he sang very operatic pieces. It really surprised me, as I have no idea where he could have performed as most of the opera venues were rather closed to black performers. I'd sure love to know more about the man---but found nothing on the internet. It is impressive to hear him sing here...he has a lovely voice and the piece is worth seeing...and hearing.
"George Dewey Washington" is a very unusual choice for one of their early sound films. This is because Washinton was NOT a minstrel (as you'd see Jolson in "The Jazz Singer") but was an actual black man....and instead of singing minstrel-type songs, he sang very operatic pieces. It really surprised me, as I have no idea where he could have performed as most of the opera venues were rather closed to black performers. I'd sure love to know more about the man---but found nothing on the internet. It is impressive to hear him sing here...he has a lovely voice and the piece is worth seeing...and hearing.
