The Current

Giving thanks to the Rogers' Batteryless radio & the 'Ukulele Lady'

On this date in 1925, Canada's Ted Rogers began selling a revolutionary radio -- one that didn't require a big, expensive, throwaway component. The Rogers' Batteryless radio could be plugged right into the house current, providing reliable entertainment without an annoying buzz....
On this date in 1925, Canada's Ted Rogers began selling a revolutionary radio -- one that didn't require a big, expensive, throwaway component. The Rogers' Batteryless radio could be plugged right into the house current, providing reliable entertainment without an annoying buzz.

So we can thank Ted Rogers for radio without hum. But radio has kept listeners humming ever since. What kind of songs were causing toes to tap in 1925?



Much like today, some were instantly forgettable, and some destined for immortality. One of that year's biggest hits has been covered a zillion times since by artists as diverse as Arlo Guthrie, Peter Sellers, Bette Midler and Kermit the Frog. Without Ted Rogers and his batteryless brainchild, would we ever have had this much "Ukulele Lady"?

Have a listen (above) to a montage of the hit "Ukulele Lady."