Titans Of Swing: The Leaders Who Defined the Sound
Profiles of the legendary bandleaders who steered the great orchestras of the 1930s and 40s.
Originally published on RealBookSoftware.com
Fletcher Henderson: The Architect
Henderson was the first to successfully adapt jazz for a large ensemble. His arrangements for Benny Goodman provided the blueprint for the entire swing era.
Duke Ellington: The Painter
Ellington treated his band like an instrument, writing specifically for the unique sounds of his individual players. His compositions elevated jazz to the level of serious art music.
Count Basie: The Blues Machine
The Basie band brought the relaxed, riff-based blues of Kansas City to the national stage. Their rhythm section—'The All-American Rhythm Section'—defined the feeling of swing.
The Popular Kings
Benny Goodman (The King of Swing) and Glenn Miller brought the music to the masses, with Miller's 'In the Mood' becoming one of the most recognizable melodies in American history.
Other Masters
- Cab Calloway - The ultimate showman and vocal improviser.
- Jimmie Lunceford - Famous for the incredible precision and 'gleam' of his band.
- Woody Herman - The leader who constantly reinvented his 'Herds' to incorporate new jazz trends.
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