"Rub-A-Dub-Dub" was recorded by Captain Spanky's Washtub Gang in 1951, led by multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Vincente DeCapo, who was born 1918 in Trenton, New Jersey.
Self taught, DeCapo's love of Jug Bands, Blues, Small Group Jazz, and novelty musical instruments formed the basis of his style. "Rub-A-Dub-Dub" features DeCapo on vocals and slide whistle.
Playing in various bands in the Trenton area, DeCapo then spent the early 1940's serving in the Navy during World War II. Upon his military discharge in 1944 he formed Captain Spanky's Washtub Gang and played various clubs in the Trenton, Camden, and Philadelphia area.
A cool jazz influence, particularly the use of vibraphone and other mallet instruments, entered his style in the late 1940's.
Vincente opened "DeCapo's Ristorante" in 1953, which specialized in Italian cuisine, as well as having a bar and dance floor. He featured jazz bands on weekends, his own "Washtub Gang" on Monday nights, and jam sessions on Thursdays.
Along with his musical abilities, DeCapo is credited with creating the Italian Style Hot Dog, a delicacy featuring 2 Frankfurters in a sub roll, topped with sautéed peppers, onions and potatoes; and which most locals referred to as simply "The Trenton Dog."
In 1985, DeCapo retired and moved to a beach house in Seaside Park, New Jersey, occasionally playing private events and fund raisers until his passing in 1999.