Goodman, Benny
(1909–1986)> BANDLEADER · CLARINETIST
Benny Goodman Bandleader and clarinetist Benjamin David Goodman, Chicago, Illinois, May 30, 1909; New York City, June 13, 1986. Goodman was known as “The King of Swing.” The name wasn’t mere press agentry. Unlike Paul Whiteman’s “King of Jazz” tag, the masterful clarinetist deserved his title. Goodman’s band, like most of the big bands, changed its personnel regularly as sidemen grew to star stature and others made their reputations. But when asked, “Which was your favorite big band?” and…