If you want to know what it sounded like when the Nat King Cole Trio’s version of “Route 66” came out on 78 rpm record in 1946, you have your chance — cracks, pops and all.
Route 66 from Ricky Doo Wop on Vimeo.
This was the record that jump-started Bobby Troup’s career and spawned hundreds of versions of the tune. When people ask me what cemented Route 66 in the consciousness of America and the world, I always cite this song. It’s not the only thing, but it’s a very big thing.