Soundies were three-minute films that were played on a video jukebox, featuring a band performing one song; they were made during 1941-46 and the best ones documented classic performers in their prime.
Duke Ellington made several Soundies in 1942, with “C Jam Blues” being the most memorable one.
Such sidemen as drummer Sonny Greer (seen at first as a bartender), cornetist Rex Stewart, trombonist Tricky Sam Nanton, clarinetist Barney Bigard, tenor-saxophonist Ben Webster, violinist Ray Nance, bassist Junior Raglin, and Duke himself on piano are featured on “C Jam Blues” before Duke runs of with all of the women.
-Scott Yanow
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