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Another voice immediately recognizable from Disney films is that of Louis Prima, who provided the voice of King Louie in Jungle Book. Prima was an Italian-American trumpeter born in New Orleans in 1910. He began playing trumpet in the local band led by his older brother Leon. Louis Prima’s career began with traditional New Orleans jazz, went on to swing, big band and even, by the 1960s, progressive rock. In each incarnation Prima’s wild antics and vivid personality were the main part of the show. He was a talented musician, however: scat singing, improvising on the trumpet, arranging and conducting the band and songwriting. In fact, Benny Goodman’s signature hit Sing Sing Sing was written by Louis Prma.

In 1949 Prima hired Keely Smith to sing with his band, then playing a regular stand in the lounge of the Las Vegas’ casino/nightclub, The Sahara. She became his fourth wife in 1953. Keely’s job was to keep a straight face while Prima cut up. As she sang Louis would interrupt, interjecting his own, wisecracking, subtext to her songs.

Prima and Keely worked as a duo until they were divorced in 1961. She went on to have a solo career, recording for the newly established Reprise records, under the direction of Nelson Riddle and singing duets with Frank Sinatra. Keely, now 76 years old, continues to perform occasionally. Prima died of complications from a brain tumor in 1978.

Thanks to Chris Greene, founder of the FDP for bringing up the subject of Prima and Keely.

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