Billy Baskette

William James Baskette (October 20, 1884 – November 8, 1949) was an American pianist and composer who wrote popular songs of the Tin Pan Alley era.^[1][2][3][4] He also wrote one of the most successful World War I war songs, "Good Bye Broadway, Hello France".

Baskette was born in Henderson, Kentucky.^[5] His career in music began as a bassist in a circus band.^[5] He also was involved in vaudeville performances as a dancer and a pianist. Later, he became a staff composer for various music publishing firms in Chicago and New York City.^[6] He died in Culver City, California on November 8, 1949.

Baskette was a part of the Tin Pan Alley movement of music. In 1918, there was a focus on music called "goodbye songs" referring to U.S. soldiers who were deployed to France during World War I. One of Baskette's most notable works was "Goodbye Broadway, Hello France," which was a hit song of the period.^[6]

Selected compositions

References