Level: 3
Tuning: Standard

The term "Colored Aristocracy" goes back to the 1850s, and the title of a book on the Black elite of St. Louis, MO. In 1899 that phrase became the title of a cakewalk number. In 1936, the Rich family recorded a string band tune of the same name. It has since become a very popular piece for old-time five-string banjo players. In the early 1960's David Laibman heard a recording of "Colored Aristocracy" by the New Lost City Ramblers. He arranged it for fingerstyle guitar in the key of A. As with most of David's arrangements this is a challenging piece to play. Your right and left hands will get a good work-out!