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Show Notes
In this episode, we profile Benjamin David Goodman, the iconic American clarinetist and bandleader widely known as the "King of Swing". Born into poverty as the ninth of twelve children in Chicago, Goodman took up the clarinet through free music classes at a local synagogue, hoping music would provide an escape from his difficult upbringing. We discuss his rise to fame, specifically the 1935 engagement at the Palomar Ballroom in Los Angeles that is credited with launching the swing era, as well as his legendary 1938 performance at Carnegie Hall. The episode also explores how Goodman broke racial barriers by leading integrated groups with musicians like Teddy Wilson, Lionel Hampton, and Charlie Christian during a time of segregation. We examine his complex personality, including his reputation as an arrogant taskmaster who intimidated musicians with a glare known as "The Ray". Finally, we cover his ventures into classical repertoire and bebop, following his career until his death in 1986.