Apr 03 2008
Benny Goodman: Medley, Hollywood Hotel
Tonight we have a performance by Benny Goodman’s big band from a 1937 movie, “Hollywood Hotel.” The trumpet soloist is Harry James, Gene Krupa plays drums and the emcee is singer Rudy Vallee. Of particular note, Lionel Hampton, who was then a member of Goodman’s quartet, is featured, playing a snippet of “Avalon.” Goodman was one of the first band leaders to integrate his bands. By 1939, Hampton, pianist Teddy Wilson and guitarist Charlie Christian would be full time members of Goodman’s big band.
