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In 1936 Chick Webb, whose very popular band featured a young Ella Fitzgerald as vocalist, hired a young musician from Brinkley, Arkansas to play lead alto in his saxophone section. His name was Louis Jordan. It wasn’t long before he was singing duets with Ella and had his own featured numbers as well. In 1938,...

In recent weeks, the world lost an iconic vocalist, jazzman, and entertainer, Tony Bennett.  For many listeners, he is ensconced as one of the great “crooners” alongside Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Sammy Davis, Jr., and others.  But with more than 150 recordings spanning a 70-year career, Bennett holds a unique place in the pantheon of...

Every year, we look forward to the month of April to celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month. Founded in 2001 by the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, it’s an opportunity to highlight everything we love about the genre, its history, and the rich cultural and musical heritage that continues to bestow incredible and unique music to...