Born in 1923, this singer/songwriter he has become an icon o…

Born in 1923, this singer/songwriter he has become an icon of country music and one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. His songbook is one of the backbones of country music and has been covered in a range of pop and rock styles. After his premature death at age 29, his legend reached mythic proportions.

The large instrumental ensembles used to play swing music. I…

The large instrumental ensembles used to play swing music. It included 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, 2 alto saxes, 2 tenor saxes, 1 bari sax, and a full rhythm section. Some bands added clarinet, vocalist, even strings. The style limited improvisation and was most popular in the 1930’s and 1940’s.

Born in Albany, Georgia in 1923, he is well known for his in…

Born in Albany, Georgia in 1923, he is well known for his innovation in blending popular music into his rhythm and blues performances and recordings. His work reflects inspiration from gospel, blues, jazz, pop, rock, R&B, soul and country musics. As a vocalist, he was originally inspired by pianist/songwriter Nat King Cole and his early recordings reflect that influence.