Intro
In this episode of the “Slow Burn” podcast, Liz Stevenson explores the history and popularity of the recorder, the rise and fall of stretch limos, and the meaning behind the phrase “Best Show.” Join her as she delves into these intriguing topics and uncovers fascinating insights.
Main Takeaways
The History of the Recorder
- The recorder was not originally an instrument for children; it was most important during the sixteenth century.
- King Henry VIII of England employed a professional recorder ensemble and even wrote a recorder song himself.
- During the Baroque era, the recorder developed into a more ornamental instrument with a more complicated inner bore and extended range.
- Composers like Bach and Handel wrote their music for the recorder during this time.
- As music moved out of homes and into larger concert halls, the recorder lost popularity due to its inability to be heard in large spaces.
The Recorder’s Revival and Nazi Connection
- It wasn’t until the early 20th century that anyone tried to make recorders again, amid a growing interest in early music.
- A German businessman named Peter Harlan noticed the redeveloped recorder and created a cheap version called the Falks blockflirto, which became popular during Germany’s poor Weimar era.
- The recorder was adopted by the Hitler Youth movement and used for propaganda purposes during the rise of the Nazis.
- After World War II, Germans who had learned the recorder before and during the rise of the Nazis began spreading it to other countries, and it became a useful teaching instrument due to its affordability and simplicity.
The Rise and Fall of Stretch Limos
- In the 80s and 90s, stretch limos were popular due to the ostentatious display of wealth.
- The limo boom was a fact, and it was used for funerals, weddings, and corporate transportation.
- The first stretched out automobile appeared in the late 1920s, but it wasn’t until the 70s and 80s that they hit their peak popularity and usage.
- Financial crises like the 2008 crash and Occupy Wall Street led to a decline in the limousine’s status, and stealth wealth and quiet luxury are now in.
- The stretch limousine has morphed and changed into SUVs like the Escalade and Navigator, which are now the car of choice for corporate clients.
The Meaning Behind “Best Show” and Baby on Board Signs
- The phrase “Best Show” is associated with a live podcast featuring celebrity guests, music, and surprises, hosted by Tom Sharpling.
- Baby on board signs were created in the early 1980s by Michael Learner after he had a stressful experience driving his 18-month-old nephew home from a family gathering in Boston.
- The signs were co-created by two sisters who pitched the idea to Learner, who then launched a company called Safety First and began producing the triangular safety stickers.
- The signs were designed to signal to other drivers that there is a baby in the car, but they have since evolved to signal comfort and trust in a space.
- The use of “baby on board” can be controversial and has drawn criticism from comedians like George Carlin.
Summary
The History and Revival of the Recorder
The recorder, initially a significant instrument during the sixteenth century, gained popularity through the patronage of King Henry VIII and the compositions of renowned composers like Bach and Handel. However, its inability to project sound in large concert halls led to a decline in its popularity. In the early 20th century, the recorder experienced a revival, thanks to a German businessman who created an affordable version. Unfortunately, the recorder was also used for propaganda by the Nazis. After World War II, it became a popular teaching instrument due to its simplicity and affordability.
The Rise and Fall of Stretch Limos
Stretch limos became a symbol of wealth and extravagance in the 80s and 90s, being used for various purposes such as funerals, weddings, and corporate transportation. However, financial crises and changing societal values led to a decline in their popularity. SUVs like the Escalade and Navigator have now replaced stretch limos as the preferred choice for corporate clients. Additionally, safety concerns have contributed to the rise of Sprinter vans, also known as party buses, as an alternative to traditional limousines.
The Meaning Behind “Best Show” and Baby on Board Signs
“Best Show” refers to a live podcast hosted by Tom Sharpling that features celebrity guests, music, and surprises. On the other hand, baby on board signs, initially created to alert other drivers of the presence of a baby in the car, have evolved to signify comfort and trust in a space. While these signs have garnered diverse opinions and even faced criticism, they continue to be in demand and have been translated into different languages with newer versions.
Conclusion
From the rich history of the recorder to the rise and fall of stretch limos and the evolution of the phrase “Best Show” and baby on board signs, this episode of “Slow Burn” offers a captivating exploration of these intriguing topics. Join Liz Stevenson as she uncovers the fascinating stories behind these cultural phenomena.
