The Duncan Sisters

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American Vaudeville duo, consisting of Vivian Duncan (1897-1986) and Rosetta Duncan (1894-1959).

Starting out as child stars in Vaudeville in 1911, the Duncan sisters became famous through their Topsy and Eva routine that they developed in 1923. In it, Rosetta, in blackface, played the African American Topsy, whereas Vivian played the blond Eva. Two songs they developed for this routine, "I Never Had a Mammy" and "Rememb'ring," became their signature tunes.

Between 1923 and 1933, The Duncan Sisters recorded almost three dozens titles for Victor. They also cut a few sides for Victor (1927), Victor (1931), and Victor (1935). After World War II, they recorded only sporadically, including some titles that they released on their own Victor label. They continued, however, to perform together in night clubs until Rosetta died from injuries she suffered in a car accident in 1959.

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