The instrument achieved its greatest popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, and combines the small scale, tuning, and playing style of a ukulele with the construction and distinctive tone of a banjo, hence the name.

Tightening it so that it is rock hard to the touch gives a bright sound with good note distinction, but less bass response.

Loosening it so it is softer, yet still tight enough to keep the bridge in place with the tension of the strings, results in a warmer, less bright sound.

[4] Other artists to make eminent use of the banjolele were Wendell Hall and Roy Smeck in the United States, and Billy "Uke" Scott in Great Britain.

In Season 2 of Orange Is the New Black, prison guard O'Neill excitedly tells Caputo about his purchase of a banjo ukulele.

British comedian Peter Sellers was a banjo ukulele player and recorded "New York Girls" with Steeleye Span[5] Queen member Brian May used a banjo ukulele in the song "Bring Back That Leroy Brown", which appeared on their third album Sheer Heart Attack.

[6] Recent users of the banjo ukulele have included Jeff Claus of The Horse Flies, Alan Randall, Andy Eastwood, comedian Frank Skinner,[7][8][9] Mr. B The Gentleman Rhymer, and Steven Universe creator Rebecca Sugar.