When swing was the thing

by John R. Tumpak

The Big Band Era of 1935 to 1946 was the only time in America's history when jazz was the most popular form of music. Fifteen piece swinging dance bands swept the country in popularity. The music they played became an important part of America's cultural history and created a level of morale that helped pull us through the Great Depression and World War II. When Swing Was the Thing presents both an excellent introduction to the Era and new information for those already familiar with it, providing detailed profiles of the Era's bandleaders, musicians, vocalists, arrangers, and contributors, many based on personal interviews. This book fully captures the nostalgic flavor of the Big Band Era through 114 vintage photographs and the story of the lives of the people who made it happen.--Publisher's information.