Goodman, Benny (1909-1986), was an American clarinet player and bandleader. He became the symbol of the “swing era” in jazz in the mid-1930’s and remained “The King of Swing” until his death. Goodman was the first jazz musician to achieve a reputation as a soloist with symphony orchestras. He collaborated with and commissioned works from many classical composers.
Loading the player...Benny Goodman Orchestra
Goodman pioneered in the public presentation of interracial music groups, introducing the African American musicians Teddy Wilson (piano), Lionel Hampton (vibraphone), and Charlie Christian (guitar), who went on to important careers in jazz. Other notable performers who starred with Goodman included pianists Jess Stacy and Mel Powell, drummer Gene Krupa, trumpeters Harry James and Ziggy Elman, and singers Martha Tilton and Helen Forrest. Among the band’s hit songs were its theme song, “Let’s Dance”; “Don’t Be That Way”; “Sing, Sing, Sing”; and “Bugle Call Rag.” On Jan. 18, 1938, Goodman and his band played a famous concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The recording of that concert became one of the best sellers in jazz history. In addition to his band, Goodman performed with highly praised small groups that featured Wilson, Hampton, and Christian.
Loading the player...Benny Goodman in performance
Benjamin David Goodman was born into a large, poor family in Chicago on May 30, 1909. A child prodigy, he played on the stage at the age of 12. At 16, he became a member of Ben Pollack’s touring band. In 1962, Goodman’s orchestra became the first jazz band to tour the Soviet Union since the 1920’s. He died on June 13, 1986.
