Arthur Collins

Arthur Collins (1864–1933) was an American singer and recording artist known for his work in the early 20th century, particularly in the genre of popular and novelty songs. He gained fame during the vaudeville era and was one of the first artists to successfully record and promote popular music through early phonograph records. Collins is best known for his collaborations with composers like George M. Cohan and for his renditions of songs such as "The Band Played On" and "My Little Dream Girl." His recordings, often characterized by a theatrical style and humor, contributed to the development of the novelty song genre, which would later influence various pop music trends. Collins's impact on music can be seen in his role as a precursor to future entertainers who blended comedy and music, paving the way for artists in the later 20th century who would continue to merge these elements. His work also exemplified the transition of music from live performance to recorded formats, helping to shape the landscape of American popular music in the early 1900s.