Band

Cab Calloway

Mapped through Swing, Black music, Jazz influences; 8 albums in the Staimusic archive.

Cab Calloway
Biography

Cab Calloway: history and sound

Cabell Cab Calloway III (December 25, 1907 – November 18, 1994) was a jazz singer and bandleader. Cab Calloway stands as one of the most timeless musicians in history. As an artist, he is revered for his eclectic musical range -- having performed a variety of jazz, swing, blues, and calypso styles. He has left an unforgettable legacy and made history with hits such as Minnie the Moocher, Hi De Ho, and St. Louis Blues. All of his brilliance ties into some of his best songs and albums such as 1931's "The Chatanooga Cats" EP, 1942's collection of American Classics "Best Of", 1969's Swinging Again (his only UK charting album), and 1982's critically acclaimed compilation "The Arrival Of Cab Calloway".
The Timeless Brilliance of Cab Calloway: A Musical Biography
The world of music has seen countless legends come and go, but only a few have left a lasting impact that continues to be felt. One of these legends is Cab Calloway, a musician whose incredible talent and unique style have endeared him to music lovers for generations. His music, which blends jazz and swing with a touch of humor and style, is a testament to his creative genius and his position as one of the greatest musicians of all time. This article will provide an insight into the life and work of Cab Calloway, his music genre, famous songs, concerts and a critic to give you a brief overview of why he is still so revered.
Cab Calloway was born on December 25, 1907, in Rochester, New York, the son of a lawyer and a teacher. Music was always a part of his life, and by the time he was a teenager, he was already performing in local bands. His big break came in 1929 when he joined the band of the famous bandleader Duke Ellington, where he quickly became a star. In 1931, he formed his own band, which he led until the late 1940s. Calloway's style was unique, combining jazz, swing, and a touch of humor that quickly earned him a loyal following.
One of Cab Calloway's most famous songs is undoubtedly Minnie the Moocher, a song that has become a classic of the jazz and swing genre. The song tells the story of Minnie, a woman who spends all her money on drugs and alcohol, and the narrator's efforts to help her change her ways. Other Calloway classics include St. James Infirmary, The Jumpin’ Jive, Reefer Man, and Makin' Whoopee. Calloway's music has stood the test of time, and his unique blend of jazz, swing, and humor still resonates with fans today.
Calloway's music has been described as swing or big-band, but it is difficult to classify it within a specific genre. His music is a blend of jazz, blues, and swing with a touch of comedy that is unique to him. Calloway's music has influenced musicians across a wide range of genres, from jazz to hip-hop, and his legacy lives on in the music of countless musicians.
Calloway's concerts were famous for their high energy and showmanship. He was known for his flamboyant style, which included colorful zoot suits and sharp angled hats, as well as his signature dance moves. Calloway's concerts were a visual spectacle as much as they were a musical one, and fans would be on their feet from beginning to end.
In a review of a Calloway performance, music critic Scott Yanow wrote: Cab Calloway was always a larger-than-life personality who had even more energy and charisma in concert than on his records. Yanow added, Calloway's love of performing...and his encouragement of audience participation made his concerts always memorable.
Cab Calloway's music has stood the test of time, and he remains one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. His unique blend of jazz, swing, and humor has inspired generations of musicians, and his music continues to be enjoyed today. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to his music, exploring the work of Cab Calloway will reveal a legendary musician whose influence transcends time.
Songs

Selected YouTube songs from our archive

St James' Infirmary
Cab Calloway St James' Infirmary
Tarzan Of Harlem
Cab Calloway Tarzan Of Harlem
Moon Glow
Cab Calloway Moon Glow
Boo-wah Boo-wah
Cab Calloway Boo-wah Boo-wah
Honey Dripper
Cab Calloway Honey Dripper
The Lady With The Fan
Cab Calloway The Lady With The Fan
Articles and news

Stories, updates and listening guides