Paul Whiteman and His Orchestra - Anything Goes (1934)

Performed by: Paul Whiteman and His Orchestra

Vocalist: Ramona (Estrild Raymona Myers)

Full Song Title: Anything Goes

Recorded on: October 26th, 1934, New York, New York.

A-Side: Coming soon..

Paul Samuel Whiteman (born March 28, 1890 – died December 29, 1967)

Paul Whiteman, often referred to as the "King of Jazz," was a pivotal figure in the American music scene during the early 20th century. Born in Denver, Colorado, Whiteman was deeply influenced by his musical upbringing; his father was the director of music for the Denver Public Schools. Whiteman began his musical career as a classical violinist, performing with the Denver Symphony Orchestra & later the San Francisco Symphony.

In the early 1920s, Whiteman transitioned to leading dance bands, where he innovatively combined classical music elements with jazz, creating a symphonic style that appealed to mainstream audiences. This blend of styles helped elevate jazz to a more respectable status among the broader public. Whiteman's band quickly gained popularity, featuring some of the era's most talented musicians, such as cornetist Bix Beiderbecke, saxophonist Frankie Trumbauer, & singer Bing Crosby. His orchestra was known for its polished performances & complex arrangements, bringing jazz into prestigious concert halls & garnering significant media attention.

One of Whiteman's most significant contributions to music was his commissioning of George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue," which premiered at Whiteman's "An Experiment in Modern Music" concert in 1924. This performance was a milestone in American music, merging classical & jazz elements & demonstrating the genre's artistic potential.

Throughout the 1920s & 1930s, Whiteman's recordings were bestsellers, & his band was a staple of radio broadcasts, further cementing his influence on American popular music. He also appeared in several films, which helped to broaden his audience. Despite his considerable success, Whiteman's style of jazz faced criticism for lacking the authentic improvisational spirit of true jazz. Nevertheless, his role in popularizing & legitimizing the genre cannot be overstated. He provided a platform for many jazz musicians who later became legends in their own right.

Whiteman's influence extended beyond performance; he was a prolific writer & educator. His books, including "Jazz" co-authored with Mary Margaret McBride, & his autobiography, "Whiteman's Burlesque," offer insights into his musical philosophy & contributions to the genre.

In the 1940s, as bebop & other modern jazz styles emerged, Whiteman's popularity declined. However, he continued to perform & remained active in music education until his death on December 29, 1967, in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Paul Whiteman's legacy is marked by his efforts to elevate jazz to a respected art form & his significant impact on the evolution of American music.

Estrild Raymona Myers (born March 11, 1909 – died December 14, 1972)

Estrild Raymona Myers, known professionally as Ramona, was an acclaimed American cabaret singer & pianist who rose to fame in the 1930s & 1940s. Born in Lockland, Ohio, Ramona exhibited musical talent from a young age & began her career performing in vaudeville & nightclubs. Her early performances showcased her exceptional vocal abilities & piano skills, which quickly caught the attention of influential figures in the music industry.

In 1932, Ramona's career took a significant turn when she joined Paul Whiteman's band as a vocalist & pianist. Her smooth, sultry voice & engaging stage presence made her a standout performer in Whiteman's ensemble, helping her gain national recognition. Her work with Whiteman's band, including numerous recordings, brought her considerable acclaim & established her as a prominent figure in the American music scene.

After leaving Whiteman's band, Ramona pursued a solo career, continuing to captivate audiences with her unique blend of jazz & pop music. She was a regular feature on radio shows & made numerous recordings that were well received by the public. Her ability to connect with audiences through her heartfelt performances ensured her continued popularity through the 1940s.

Despite the changing musical landscape of the 1950s, which saw a decline in the popularity of her style, Ramona remained active in the music industry. She continued to perform in clubs & on television, maintaining a loyal following. Her contributions to music during her peak years left a lasting impression on the genre.

Ramona passed away on December 14, 1972, in Laguna Beach, California. She is remembered for her significant contributions to American music & her role in popularizing the cabaret style of jazz singing.

I hope you enjoy this as much as I have.

Best wishes,
Stu
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