[78-L] Average age was

[Steven]

From: Michael Biel 
<snip>
> Masterworks reissues of
Louis Armstrong, which were reviewed in the Sept Record Changer.  But
Jolly Roger had already issued four 10-inch LPs of some of the same
Armstrongs, and continued with several more.  Although there had been
some hints it was coming (and Clef Music Shop announced in the Feb issue
a HUGE 39 cent sale of the 78 reissues from many labels) suddenly in Feb
52 Columbia sued Jolly Roger which accepted an out-of-court settlement,
paid Louis $1000, destroyed their stock, and scared EVERY OTHER COMPANY
into destroying their stocks and going out of business
>
This interesting post brings up two important points...!

First, "Jolly Roger" was the nickname for the flag historically flown by
sea-going pirates in an earlier era; this would seem to suggest that the
label was fully aware that they were illegally pressing "pirate" records
(which. I'm sure, didn't help them in ensuing legal cases...?!)

Second, Armstrong was one of the VERY few recording artists whose
contract called for him to receive royalties (which the "pirates," of
course, didn't pay...?!). This provided the record industry with an
easy set of grounds for legal action...!

Steven C. Barr