Personnel includes: Benny Goodman (clarinet); Helen Ward (vocals); Gene Krupa (drums). Recorded between 1935 and 1939. Contains 23 tracks. The first of two volumes dedicated to Fletcher Henderson's influence upon Benny Goodman and one of five volumes focusing upon Goodman's ace arrangers, this solid little core sample contains some of Goodman's best records cut between April 1936 and October 1938. Vocals are by Helen Ward. A pioneer of big-band jazz throughout the 1920s, Henderson's vital contribution to the popularity of swing during the '30s and early '40s was most successfully manifested through his work with Benny Goodman. Most of the examples heard on this collection typify the Henderson formula of catchy tunes made irresistibly danceable. Highlights include King Oliver's "Sugar Foot Stomp," Jelly Roll Morton's "King Porter Stomp," as well as the "Bumble Bee Stomp" and "Wrappin' It Up," both composed by Fletcher Henderson. ~ arwulf arwulf
