"Benny Goodman and His Orchestra" was one of the most influential and popular swing bands of the 1930s and 1940s. Here are some interesting facts about Benny Goodman and the iconic song "And the Angels Sing":
Formation of the Band: Benny Goodman formed his orchestra in 1934, and it quickly gained popularity as one of the leading swing bands of the era. Goodman was known as the "King of Swing."
Integration of the Band: Benny Goodman was a trailblazer in breaking racial barriers in the music industry. In 1936, he hired African-American pianist Teddy Wilson, and later in 1939, he added vibraphonist Lionel Hampton to the band. This was a significant step in promoting racial integration in jazz.
"And the Angels Sing": The song "And the Angels Sing" is a popular jazz standard with music by Ziggy Elman and lyrics by Johnny Mercer. It was recorded by Benny Goodman and His Orchestra with vocals by Martha Tilton in 1939. The song became a major hit and is considered one of Goodman's signature tunes.
Ziggy Elman's Trumpet Solo: The recording of "And the Angels Sing" features a memorable trumpet solo by Ziggy Elman. His soaring and lyrical solo is one of the highlights of the song and contributed to its success.
Martha Tilton's Vocals: Martha Tilton, the vocalist on the recording, was known for her smooth and captivating voice. Her performance on "And the Angels Sing" added to the song's popularity.
Commercial Success: "And the Angels Sing" became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts. It has since been covered by numerous artists and remains a classic in the big band and swing repertoire.
Recognition and Awards: Benny Goodman and His Orchestra received widespread recognition and several awards for their contributions to the world of swing music. Goodman himself received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1986.
Cultural Impact: Benny Goodman's music, including "And the Angels Sing," played a significant role in popularizing swing music and creating a cultural phenomenon during the Swing Era. The music and style of the Goodman orchestra continue to influence jazz and popular music.
Benny Goodman and His Orchestra's legacy endures, and their contributions to the development of swing and jazz have left an indelible mark on the history of music.