J. Lawrence Cook

Who was J. Lawrence Cook?

Jean Lawrence Cook was the most prolific piano roll artist in history. His output has been estimated at between 10,000 and 20,000 different roll recordings.

Cook was born in Athens, Tennessee, the son of a preacher. He was orphaned before his fourth birthday, and raised by relatives who introduced him to music. He went on to become the most famous name in the history of the music roll industry.

Cook arrived in New York in March 1920 and recorded some rolls for the US Music Roll Company. In May 1923, he was engaged by the QRS Music Roll Company, where he remained for nearly 50 years.

As a result of his prolific output, he also used pseudonyms and some rolls were released under names such as Sid Laney, "Pep" Doyle, and Walter Redding. He also produced some rolls that were marketed as being played by Fats Waller.

Cook was known to produce over two piano rolls each day, along with his other jobs, such as at the B.A.B Organ Company.

J. Lawrence Cook's arranging piano is on display at the American Treasure Tour in Oaks, Pennsylvania.