Artie Shaw

In the big band era of the mid-20th century, no name was bigger that of Artie Shaw. His 1938 recording of "Begin the Beguine" made him a popular rival to superstar clarinetist Benny Goodman. Shaw developed a reputation as a reluctant and somewhat grouchy genius; his big bands were roaring successes but he frequently broke them up, only to form new bands months or years later. He also dabbled in symphonic music and avant-garde jazz combos and led a U.S. Navy big band during World War II.

At left, the RCA release entitled "The Best Of Artie Shaw -- Concerto For Clarinet," which includes Artie's classic performance of 'Stardust,' featuring a famous trumpet solo by Billy Butterfield. At right, Volume 1 of Hindsight Records' three CD set, "King Of The Clarinet," which features live performances recorded during 1938-39 and includes a distinctive rendition of Hoagy's classic song. Shaw's "Stardust" is also included on RCA Victor's unique 1960 LP, "The Stardust Road."

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