Benny Goodman, born on May 30, 1909, in Chicago, Illinois, has shaped the landscape of jazz music during the Swing Era. His contributions in many aspects of the genre, from his early musical upbringing to breaking racial barriers in jazz, impacting the recording industry with iconic tracks like "Sing, Sing, Sing," and launching the careers of several musicians. Being a part of a large immigrant family during his early years was Benny Goodman's financial difficulty. The basis for his musical journey was also established by his father's choice to send him to learn music at Kehelah Jacob Synagogue in Chicago when he was ten years old. Franz Schoepp, a clarinetist with the Chicago Symphony, taught Goodman the instrument. His early skill was obvious, …show more content…
In an era when racial tensions were high, Goodman integrated his bands with both white and black musicians. Goodman's commitment to inclusivity helped pave the way for more racially mixed groups to be accepted in mainstream jazz. Benny Goodman's career peaked in the 1930s, when he rose to prominence during the Swing Era. Following his band's 1935 Palomar Ballroom performance, he became well-known and was the "King of Swing." Goodman's band became a cultural sensation. Classic songs like "Sing, Sing, Sing" demonstrate Benny Goodman's impact on the recording industry. This recording exhibited the vivacity and improvisation typical of the swing genre. The success of the track was aided by Gene Krupa's famed lengthy drum solo. One of the most important songs in jazz history, "Sing, Sing, Sing" continues to inspire performers of later generations. In 1933, Goodman's partnership with jazz producer John Hammond was instrumental in the beginning of several performers' careers. Goodman recorded with drummer Gene Krupa and trombonist Jack Teagarden, which helped make him well-known across the country. Charlie Christian, and Mel Powell were included in Goodman's band giving these players a chance to establish themselves in the jazz