Bongo Joe

George “Bongo Joe” Coleman (1923-1999) was an American street musician who played on battered 55-gallon drums. Although a talented percussionist, Coleman preferred to perform on the street corner rather than in concert venues. In 1968, Arhoolie founder Chris Strachwitz used a portable recorder to capture Coleman’s playing. One song from that session, “Innocent Little Doggy,” became an underground hit in Texas and in England, where the BBC aired the song repeatedly. Coleman described his music as “fundamental beat music.” This is the only authorized recording of Coleman and remains in production to this day.

Track Listing

101	I Wish I Could Sing	George Coleman	03:20
102	Science Fiction	George Coleman	05:21
103	Innocent Little Doggy	George Coleman	07:16
104	Cool It Right	George Coleman	05:52
105	Listen at That Bull	George Coleman	03:53
106	Crazy with Love	George Coleman	02:35
107	Great	George Coleman	04:49
108	Transistor Radio	George Coleman	05:53
109	Eloise	George Coleman	06:23
110	Dog Eat Dog	George Coleman	04:19