카테고리 보관물: Swing

Swing

Jazz Legend : Cab Calloway

Cab Calloway: A Jazz Icon

cab-calloway

Photo source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cab_Calloway

Cab Calloway was an American jazz singer, dancer, bandleader, and actor who rose to prominence in the 1930s. He was a charismatic performer known for his scat singing and flamboyant stage presence, and his music and style have had a lasting impact on the jazz genre.

Born in 1907 in Rochester, New York, Calloway was raised in a musical family and learned to play several instruments in his childhood. He made a name for himself as a jazz performer in the 1920s and was signed by Brunswick Records in 1930. He recorded several hit songs with the label, establishing himself as a leading jazz singer of the era.

Calloway’s music was known for its upbeat and joyful quality, and he was a true showman with an energetic stage presence. He was a pioneer in the entertainment industry, being one of the first black performers to achieve widespread success and recognition. Today, he is remembered as an important figure in the history of jazz, and his music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jazz Legend : Lionel Hampton

Lionel Hampton: A Jazz Legend

Lionel_hampton

Photo Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lionel_Hampton

Lionel Hampton was an American jazz percussionist, bandleader, and composer who was born on April 20, 1908 and passed away on August 31, 2002. Throughout his musical career, which spanned over seven decades, he was known for his contributions to the jazz genre, particularly as a vibraphonist. His talent and dedication to the craft earned him the title of “The King of Vibes”.

Early Life and Career

Hampton was born in Louisville, Kentucky, but grew up in Birmingham, Alabama. He started playing the piano at the age of four, but soon switched to the drums. At the age of 14, he joined the Birmingham Civic Opera, where he was able to further develop his musical skills.

In 1928, Hampton moved to Chicago, where he joined the legendary jazz musician, Louis Armstrong’s band. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for vibraphone, a musical instrument he had never played before. Under the guidance of Armstrong, Hampton quickly developed a unique style that would soon make him a sought-after musician.

Rise to Fame

In 1930, Hampton formed his own big band, the Lionel Hampton Orchestra. The band quickly became popular and was known for its energetic and upbeat performances. Hampton’s innovative approach to the vibraphone earned him a reputation as one of the best jazz swing musicians of his time.

In addition to his work with his big band, Hampton also collaborated with many of the greatest jazz musicians of his day, including Benny Goodman, Art Tatum, and Gene Krupa. He was also a regular performer at the famous Carnegie Hall in New York City, where he was able to showcase his talents to a wider audience.

Contributions to Jazz Music

Throughout his career, Lionel Hampton made numerous contributions to the jazz genre. He was one of the first musicians to incorporate vibraphone into jazz music and was known for his innovative approach to the instrument. He was also a pioneer in the use of vibraphone solos, which were previously unheard of in jazz music.

In addition to his work as a performer and composer, Hampton was also a bandleader and mentor to many young musicians. He was known for his ability to bring out the best in his musicians and was considered a leader in the jazz community.

Legacy

After a career that spanned over seven decades, Lionel Hampton passed away in 2002. However, his legacy lives on through his music and the many musicians he inspired. Today, he is remembered as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time and is celebrated for his contributions to the genre.

In conclusion, Lionel Hampton was a true jazz legend who made a lasting impact on the genre. His innovative approach to the vibraphone, his contributions as a bandleader and mentor, and his energetic and upbeat performances will always be remembered as a testament to his talent and dedication to the craft.

Jazz Legend : Tommy Dorsey

Tommy Dorsey: A Jazz Legend

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Photo source : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tommy_Dorsey

Tommy Dorsey was a renowned American jazz trombonist, bandleader, and composer who left an indelible mark on the jazz world. Born in November 1905, he was raised in a musical family and started playing the trombone at a young age. In this article, we delve into the life and legacy of this jazz legend.

Early Life and Career

Tommy Dorsey was born in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, to Thomas Francis Dorsey Sr. and Theresa Dorsey.

In 1923, Dorsey moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. He joined the Ted Lewis Jazz Band, where he honed his skills and made a name for himself as a trombonist. In the late 1920s, he formed his own band, The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, and signed with Victor Records. The band’s first recording, “The Coquette,” was a hit and established Dorsey as a bandleader.

The Swing Era

The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra became one of the most popular big bands of the swing era, known for its smooth, sophisticated sound. The band’s signature style was a fusion of jazz, blues, and pop, and it featured some of the biggest names in jazz, including Frank Sinatra, Jo Stafford, and Bunny Berigan.

The band’s popularity skyrocketed in the late 1930s and early 1940s, and it became a regular feature on the radio and in clubs.

Collaborations and Legacy

He collaborated with many other musicians and composers, including Jimmy Van Heusen, Johnny Mercer, and Sammy Cahn, and his music continues to be popular today.

One of the most notable collaborations of Dorsey’s career was with Frank Sinatra, who joined The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra as a vocalist in 1940. The two men had a close working relationship, and Sinatra went on to become one of the biggest stars of the 20th century. Their musical partnership was one of the highlights of Dorsey’s career, and their recordings remain popular today.

 

Jazz Legend : Artie Shaw

Artie Shaw – A Jazz Legend

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Photo source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artie_Shaw

Artie Shaw was one of the most innovative and prominent jazz musicians of the 20th century. Born on May 23, 1910, in New York City, Shaw began playing the clarinet at an early age and went on to become one of the most renowned jazz musicians of all time. He was a gifted composer, arranger, and bandleader who revolutionized the jazz scene with his unique style and innovative arrangements.

Early Years

Artie Shaw began his musical career in the 1920s, playing in various small jazz ensembles in New York City. He quickly gained recognition for his exceptional clarinet skills and began performing in larger venues. By the early 1930s, Shaw had formed his own band and was making a name for himself in the jazz world.

Rise to Fame

In the late 1930s, Shaw’s popularity skyrocketed with the release of his hit single “Begin the Beguine.” The song became a huge success and propelled Shaw to international fame. He went on to record many other popular songs, including “Frenesi,” “Stardust,” and “Summit Ridge Drive.”

Innovative Style

What set Artie Shaw apart from other jazz musicians of his time was his innovative approach to jazz. He experimented with different styles and arrangements, incorporating elements of classical music into his compositions. Shaw’s unique style was a departure from the traditional jazz sound of the time, and he is often credited with revolutionizing the jazz scene.

Band leadership

In addition to his musical talent, Shaw was also known for his leadership skills. He was a demanding bandleader who demanded the best from his musicians. He surrounded himself with some of the best musicians of the time, including Benny Carter, Roy Eldridge, and Mel Torme. Shaw’s bands were known for their tight arrangements and exceptional musicianship.

Retirement and Legacy

In the late 1940s, Shaw retired from music and focused on his writing and personal life. He went on to write several books, including his autobiography, “The Trouble with Cinderella.” Despite his retirement, Shaw’s music continues to be celebrated and revered by jazz enthusiasts around the world.

Conclusion

Artie Shaw was a true innovator and a pioneer in the world of jazz. His unique style and innovative approach to jazz music have earned him a place in the annals of jazz history. His music continues to inspire and captivate audiences, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.

Jazz Swing Legend : Glenn Miller

Jazz Swing Legend #3: Glenn Miller

Glenn Miller was an American big band leader, arranger, composer, and trombonist, one of the most successful figures of the swing era. He was born March 1, 1904, in Clarinda, Iowa, and died December 15, 1944, in a plane crash over the English Channel.

He formed his own band in 1937, and by 1939 his orchestra had become one of the most popular in the United States. Miller’s hits include “In the Mood,” “Moonlight Serenade,” “Tuxedo Junction,” and “Chattanooga Choo Choo.” He is known for his clarinet-dominated voice and arrangements, characterized by complex harmonies and the creative use of saxophone parts.

Miller was also a pioneer in the use of sound recording technology and used the new medium to his advantage, using multiple takes to create his recordings. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and performed for troops with his Army Air Force Band. Despite his untimely death, his music remains wildly popular and is considered an important part of American musical history.

Glenn Miller

Photo source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glenn_Miller