Who is Artie Shaw?
Artie Shaw was a Big Band leader and jazz clarinetist who was immensely popular between 1938 and 1945. His music was a hit with the young, dancing crowd who were into ‘Swing Dance’.
Why should I be interested in a musician from the 1930’s and 1940’s?
Even to this day, Artie Shaw is considered to be one of, if not the best clarinet player ever. Some would argue that the title should go to Benny Goodman. In fact, both were friendly rivals who were known by titles reserved for the best; Artie was ‘The King of the Clarinet’ and Benny was ‘The King of Swing’. The clarinet, jazz, swing music, and big bands are all important in their roles of helping to define a generation and a historical era in the United States, which was emerging from the Great Depression only to enter World War II. The influence and popularity of this unique sound would not be confined by borders for long, and sucessivly spilled over into both Europe and Asia, where it is still embraced by die-hard fans to this day.
Where can I learn more about Artie Shaw and his music?
Artie Shaw passed away at the age of 94 in December of 2004. However, his second generation website is online at www.ArtieShaw.com where visitors can experience more about the genius music and playing of this iconic jazz musician who will never be forgotten.