Short Summary
Cab Calloway was a legendary American jazz singer and bandleader, renowned for his energetic performances and distinctive scat singing. Rising to fame during the Harlem Renaissance, he became a key figure in the world of swing music. His most famous hit, "Minnie the Moocher," became a defining anthem of the jazz era. Calloway's influence on music and culture extended beyond his lifetime, solidifying his place as a pioneering force in the history of jazz.
Early Life & Education
Born on December 25, 1907, in Rochester, New York, Cab Calloway grew up in a middle-class family. His mother, Martha Eulalia Reed, was a teacher and church organist, while his father, Cabell Calloway Jr., was a lawyer. The family moved to Baltimore, Maryland, where he was introduced to music and theater. Calloway attended Frederick Douglass High School and later, despite his parents' wishes for him to pursue law, he enrolled at Crane College in Chicago. It was in Chicago that he developed a passion for jazz, performing in local clubs and honing his vocal and musical skills.
Career Highlights
Calloway's career took off in the late 1920s when he joined the Alabamians and later formed his own band, the Missourians, which became the Cab Calloway Orchestra. He gained widespread fame after replacing Duke Ellington at the Cotton Club in Harlem. His 1931 recording of "Minnie the Moocher" skyrocketed him to national prominence, showcasing his unique style of scat singing. Throughout his career, he appeared in films such as "The Blues Brothers" and performed on Broadway, leaving an indelible mark on both music and popular culture.
Major Achievements
- Recorded "Minnie the Moocher," the first jazz recording to sell over a million copies.
- Performed at the prestigious Cotton Club in Harlem, a key venue during the Harlem Renaissance.
- Appeared in several films, including "The Blues Brothers," expanding his influence beyond music.
- Authored the "Hepster's Dictionary," which popularized jive talk and influenced American slang.
- Received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his lasting contributions to music.
Famous Quotes
- "A movie and a stage show are two entirely different things."
- "You can't copy anybody and end with anything. If you copy, it means you're working without any real feeling."
Interesting Facts
- He was known for his flamboyant style, often wearing zoot suits during performances.
- Calloway was a mentor to future jazz legends, including Dizzy Gillespie.
- He popularized the "Hi-de-ho" catchphrase, which became synonymous with his persona.
- He was the first African American to have a nationally syndicated radio show.
- Cab Calloway appeared on Sesame Street, introducing jazz to a younger audience.
Legacy / Influence
Cab Calloway's legacy is cemented as a trailblazer in jazz and popular music. His innovative style and charismatic stage presence influenced generations of musicians and performers. His contributions to jazz music, particularly his scat singing and dynamic performances, continue to inspire artists in various genres. Calloway's cultural impact is evident in music, film, and even language, with his influence persisting in the realms of entertainment and beyond.
FAQ
Q: Why is Cab Calloway famous?
A: He is famous for his energetic jazz performances and popularizing scat singing, particularly through his hit "Minnie the Moocher."
Q: What was Cab Calloway's signature song?
A: "Minnie the Moocher" is his signature song, known for its call-and-response style and catchy "Hi-de-ho" chorus.
Q: Did Cab Calloway influence other musicians?
A: Yes, he influenced many musicians, including jazz greats like Dizzy Gillespie, and contributed to the development of swing music.
