National Kazoo Day Celebrated Across US

Kazoobie Kazoos CEO Discusses History of the Iconic American Instrument

Jan. 28, 2026 at 9:55am

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January 28th marks National Kazoo Day, and the CEO and President of Kazoobie Kazoos, Stephen Murray, joined Eyewitness News Mornings to talk about the history and significance of the kazoo, an American-created musical instrument designed by a freed slave in the late 1800s. The kazoo is used today for enjoyment, music, and as a breathing tool to strengthen lungs.

Why it matters

The kazoo is an iconic American instrument with a unique history dating back to the late 19th century. Celebrating National Kazoo Day helps raise awareness of this distinctive musical device and its cultural significance.

The details

The kazoo was designed by an unnamed freed slave from Alabama in the late 1800s. Today, the instrument is used for musical performance, personal enjoyment, and as a tool to strengthen lung capacity. Kazoobie Kazoos, a leading manufacturer of kazoos, is located at the Kazoo Museum in Beaufort, South Carolina.

  • January 28th is National Kazoo Day across the United States.

The players

Stephen Murray

CEO and President of Kazoobie Kazoos, a leading manufacturer of kazoos located at the Kazoo Museum in Beaufort, South Carolina.

Unnamed freed slave from Alabama

The original designer of the kazoo in the late 1800s.

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What they’re saying

“January 28th is National Kazoo Day across the US.”

— Stephen Murray, CEO and President of Kazoobie Kazoos (Eyewitness News Mornings)

The takeaway

The kazoo, an iconic American musical instrument, continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by people across the country on National Kazoo Day, honoring its unique history and ongoing cultural significance.