Benny Goodman
Benny Goodman: The King of Swing
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Benjamin David "Benny" Goodman was born on May 30, 1909, in Chicago, Illinois. He was often referred to as the "King of Swing" due to his influential role in popularizing swing music.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: May 30, 1909
Died: June 13, 1986 (age 77)
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Goodman was an American jazz clarinetist, bandleader, and composer. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
Early Life and Background
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Goodman began playing the clarinet at a young age, influenced by his Jewish immigrant parents who encouraged his musical talents. His father was a tailor and his mother a seamstress, but it was music that became Benny's true passion. Goodman's early life in Chicago laid the groundwork for his future success as he honed his skills through intense practice and dedication.
Influences and Training
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Goodman's interest in jazz began with listening to records by John Philip Sousa and Sidney Bechet, which sparked a desire to learn more about this new genre. He studied clarinet under the tutelage of Franz Schoepp, who helped refine his technique. Goodman's early influences also included jazz pioneers such as Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington.
Major Accomplishments
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Rise to Fame
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Goodman's career took off in the 1930s when he formed a band that would become one of the most popular groups of its time, known as Benny Goodman and his Orchestra. Their music was characterized by energetic performances, innovative arrangements, and a blend of jazz, blues, and classical influences.
Notable Performances
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Some of Goodman's most notable performances include:
The Concert at Carnegie Hall (1938): This groundbreaking concert marked the first time a jazz band performed at Carnegie Hall. The sold-out event was met with critical acclaim, cementing Goodman's status as a leading figure in swing music.
The "Let's Dance" Radio Broadcasts: Goodman and his Orchestra regularly appeared on the popular radio show, which helped spread their music to a wider audience.
Notable Works or Actions
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Compositions and Arrangements
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Goodman was an accomplished composer and arranger. Some of his notable compositions include:
"Sing, Sing, Sing": This iconic song features a memorable drum solo by Gene Krupa, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz drummers.
"Let's Dance": This tune showcases Goodman's ability to blend classical and jazz elements.
Impact and Legacy
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Goodman's impact on swing music was profound. He helped popularize this genre, paving the way for future generations of musicians. His innovative arrangements and energetic performances raised the bar for jazz musicians.
Influential Musicians
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Some notable musicians influenced by Goodman include:
Artie Shaw: A close friend and contemporary of Goodman's, Shaw credited him with inspiring his own musical career.
Count Basie: The legendary pianist and bandleader often cited Goodman as a key influence.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Goodman is widely quoted and remembered for his:
Innovative Approach to Music: His blend of jazz, blues, and classical influences helped shape the sound of swing music.
Trailblazing Performances: Goodman's energetic stage presence and commitment to innovation raised the bar for future generations of musicians.
Quotes by Benny Goodman
One way or the other, if you want to find reasons why you shouldn't keep on, you'll find 'em. The obstacles are all there; there are a million of 'em.
I remember Glenn Miller coming to me once, before he had his own band, saying, How do you do it? How do you get started? It’s so difficult. I told him, I don’t know but whatever you do don’t stop. Just keep on going.
People have often said to me, ‘You’re so relaxed when you play.’ Relaxed my elbow. It’s practice.
I don’t have any great love for Chicago. What the hell, a childhood around Douglas Park isn’t very memorable. I remember the street fights and how you were afraid to cross the bridge ’cause the Irish kid on the other side would beat your head in. I left Chicago a long time ago.
To this day, I don’t like people walking on stage not looking good. You have to look good. If you feel special about yourself then you’re going to play special.
One way or the other, if you want to find reasons why you shouldn’t keep on, you’ll find ’em. The obstacles are all there; there are a million of ’em.
Sometimes when you start losing detail, whether it’s in music or in life, something as small as failing to be polite, you start to lose substance.
If you want to do something, you do it anyway, and handle the obstacles as they come.
