Jimmy Rushing
Jimmy Rushing
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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James Albert Rushing was born on November 16, 1901, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was also known as "Mr. Five by Five" for his imposing physique.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: November 16, 1901
Died: June 3, 1972
Nationality and Profession(s)
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American jazz vocalist and bandleader of the swing era.
Early Life and Background
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Rushing was born in Oklahoma City to a large family. He began singing at an early age, influenced by the church choirs he attended as a child. By his late teens, he was already performing with various local bands in Oklahoma City. In 1926, Rushing moved to Kansas City, where he joined the orchestra of Bennie Moten.
Major Accomplishments
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Rushing's unique vocal style, which blended deep tones and subtle vibrato, made him one of the most distinctive voices of his era. He is often credited with developing a new approach to jazz singing that emphasized expressiveness over traditional melodic accuracy. As a member of Count Basie's orchestra from 1935 to 1948, Rushing became closely associated with the group and helped shape their signature sound.
Notable Works or Actions
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Rushing recorded extensively throughout his career, including sessions with Count Basie, Bennie Moten, and Jay McShann. Some of his most famous recordings include " Sentimental Journey," "Rockin' in Rhythm," and "One O'Clock Jump." He was also an accomplished bandleader, leading his own groups both in the United States and abroad.
Impact and Legacy
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Rushing's impact on jazz singing is still felt today. His unique style has influenced countless vocalists, from Nat King Cole to Ray Charles. As a performer and leader, Rushing helped shape the sound of swing music during its heyday in the 1930s and 1940s.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Rushing's influence on jazz singing is undeniable. His distinctive voice and expressive style have made him one of the most beloved figures of his era, with a lasting impact on music that continues to resonate today.
Quotes by Jimmy Rushing
When I go in front of an audience, I’ll admit I sometimes have a certain amount of fear in me, because maybe the people are not going to accept what I’m doing today. That’s bad for any artist, especially if what you’re doing is not in line with what’s happening today.
Anytime a person can play the blues, he has a soul and he has a ‘lift’ to play anything else he wants to play. It’s sort of like the foundation to a building.
This business switching styles can’t be done honestly by one man. As soon as he can play his instrument well, he can express himself, and all his life he has only one self.
The music business used to carry a certain amount of brotherly love, but it isn’t that way now.
There’s a difference between the blues of the New Orleans guys and anyone else and the difference is in a chord, but I can’t figure the name of it. It’s a different chord, and they all make it.
The blues comes right back to a person’s feelings, to his daily activities in life. But rich people don’t know nothing about the blues, please believe me.
The blues comes right back to a person's feelings, to his daily activities in life. But rich people don't know nothing about the blues, please believe me.