Today's playlist. For the 36th installment, we have "Jimmy Dorsey".
I bought it at Flash Disc Ranch, my favorite record store in Shimokitazawa.
This is a record store I've been going to ever since I first moved to Setagaya. It's popular because of its amazing point card system, which is valid as long as the store is open. Once you collect 50 stamps, you can buy any number of records under 15,000 yen for half price.
Jimmy Dorsey: The saxophone poet who played timeless melodies
Jimmy Dorsey was born in Shenandoah, a coal mining town in Pennsylvania. His musical journey began in his childhood with an instrument inherited from his father. Growing up in a musical family with his younger brother Tommy, he joined his father's band at the age of seven. At nine, he took to the New York stage, showing glimpses of his extraordinary talent. His unique fingering technique on the Albert clarinet imbued his playing with an unparalleled individuality.
The challenges of youth: Becoming a darling of the jazz scene
In the 1920s, the young Jimmy honed his skills in numerous bands, including the Scranton Sirens and the California Ramblers, and his name became well-known in the jazz scene. In 1927, he showcased his emotionally charged clarinet solo on the famous song "Singin' the Blues," which would later earn him a Grammy Hall of Fame induction. He then achieved further success on a European tour, and upon returning home, he set his sights on forming a joint band with his brother Tommy.
Light and Shadow: The Dorsey Brothers Orchestra
In 1927, the brothers formed the Dorsey Brothers Orchestra and quickly rose to stardom. However, behind their success, conflicts between the brothers over management policies and musical direction gradually deepened. Finally, in 1935, the band split. Jimmy led his own orchestra and signed with Decca Records. He forged a new path, performing on Bing Crosby's radio show and producing numerous hit songs.
Sweet Harmony: The Golden Age of Eberly & O'Connell
The Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra took the world by storm with sweet duets by vocalists Bob Eberly and Helen O'Connell, and Latin American-influenced songs. Their beloved classics, such as "Amapola," "Maria Elena," and "Green Eyes," graced the music scene of the early 1940s and captivated people's hearts.
The moment of reunion: The bond between brothers and the brilliance of their later years
In 1947, the brothers co-starred in the film "The Fabulous Dorsey." Later, in 1953, they reunited as the Dorsey Brothers Orchestra and hosted the popular television show "Stage Show." However, in 1956, Tommy suddenly passed away. Overcoming his grief, Jimmy took over the band, but he himself suffered from laryngeal cancer and passed away on June 12, 1957, at the young age of 53.
The changing times: The last hit song "So Rare"
Released shortly before his death, "So Rare" reached number 2 on the US charts with its innovative, rock and roll-influenced arrangement. While it signaled the end of the big band era, it also served as Jimmy Dorsey's final message, demonstrating his insatiable curiosity for new music.
Names etched in music history: Melodies that continue to resonate for generations to come.
Jimmy Dorsey, an icon of the swing jazz world, continues to be loved and talked about by many for his music and his way of life. The melodies he played have shone brightly across generations and have had a profound influence on musicians who followed. His name is forever etched in the history of jazz.
WAITER-U offers not only camping gear, but also a curated selection of music, books, and movies.
I've also created a playlist on Spotify, so please feel free to listen to it in the car on your way to a camping trip.
