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American jazz singer, bandleader, dancer, and actor celebrated for his energetic scat singing, flamboyant stage presence, and signature 'Hi-De-Ho' style.Cab Calloway rose to fame as the charismatic bandleader at Harlem's Cotton Club in the 1930s. His orchestra became one of the most popular African-American big bands, known for hits like 'Minnie the Moocher.' He pioneered jazz entertainment through film, Broadway, and television, maintaining cultural relevance for over six decades until his death at age 86.

• Calloway's 1931 recording 'Minnie the Moocher' sold over a million copies, featuring his improvised 'Hi-De-Ho' chorus that became his lifelong trademark and earned him the nickname 'The Hi-De-Ho Man.'
• He broke racial barriers as one of the first Black performers to conduct a white orchestra (on national TV in 1952) and starred in the first integrated cast Broadway musical ('Hello, Dolly!' 1967).
• His flamboyant zoot suits, high-energy dancing, and scat singing influenced generations of performers, including Michael Jackson, who studied Calloway's moves.
• Calloway battled severe gambling addiction early in his career, reportedly losing over $70,000 in one night, forcing him to work relentlessly to pay debts.