Louis Jordan (jan 1, 1908 – dec 31, 1975)
Description:
played a major role in transition from race music to rhythm and blues
- popularized concept of small swinging band with a tight rhythm section and a horn section
- sax player and singer (pivotal in developing jump blues)
- embraced commercial aspects of popular music industry
- started in minstrel shows--> used that to "straddle the fence" (appeal to white audiences for commercial success and stay connected to black audiences for the vitality of his music") --> also incorporated "witty, vaudeville-influenced lyrics" + comedic theatrics
CRITICISM: every number in jump tempo sounds the same by him however was in a magazine where there's an ongoing debate on the relationship between jazz and commercialism
Added to timeline:
Popular Music After 1945
Date: