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Scott Joplin was a highly influential American composer and pianist, often referred to as "The King of Ragtime." Here are some interesting facts about this legendary entertainer:

1. Early Life: Scott Joplin was born around November 1867 in Texarkana, Texas, although the exact date is not known. He grew up in a musical family and learned to play the piano at a young age.

2. Formative Years: He received formal music training in his youth, including classical piano lessons. This training would later influence his unique approach to composing ragtime music.

3. Maple Leaf Rag: In 1899, Joplin composed one of his most famous pieces, "Maple Leaf Rag." This composition became a significant success and is often considered the composition that popularized ragtime music.

4. Ragtime Pioneer: Joplin's compositions helped define the ragtime genre, characterized by syncopated rhythms and a lively, infectious melody. Ragtime was the precursor to jazz and had a profound impact on the development of American popular music.

5. Publishing Success: Joplin was not only a performer but also a skilled music publisher. He published many of his own compositions, which allowed him to earn a substantial income from his music.

6. The Entertainer: Another of Joplin's well-known compositions is "The Entertainer," which he wrote in 1902. This piece gained renewed popularity when it was used as the theme music for the 1973 film "The Sting," which brought ragtime back into the mainstream.

7. Opera Aspirations: Joplin had ambitions beyond ragtime music. He composed an opera called "Treemonisha," which combined ragtime elements with a serious narrative about African American culture and social issues. Unfortunately, it was not widely recognized during his lifetime.

8. Legacy: Scott Joplin's contributions to American music are immeasurable. He helped bridge the gap between classical and popular music and left a lasting mark on the development of jazz and other forms of music.

9. Tragic End: Despite his musical talents, Joplin faced financial struggles and health issues later in life. He died of syphilis-related complications in a mental institution in 1917, at the age of 49. It was a sad ending for such a talented and innovative musician.

10. Posthumous Recognition: In 1976, Scott Joplin was awarded a posthumous Pulitzer Prize for his contributions to American music. This recognition highlighted his enduring impact on the country's musical heritage.

Scott Joplin's compositions continue to be performed and enjoyed today, and his influence on American music remains significant, making him a true icon in the world of entertainment.