Chick Webb

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Chick Webb

Chick Webb, byname of William Henry Webb, was an influential American jazz drummer born on February 10, 1905? in Baltimore, Maryland. He passed away on June 16, 1939, in his hometown. Webb led one of the most dominant big bands of the swing era, known for its swing, precision, and popularity, setting a high standard for other bands. Although there is some discrepancy about his birth year, with 1909 appearing on his death certificate and grave marker, census records suggest 1905.

Webb moved to New York City in 1924 and formed his big band in 1926, which initially included notable musicians like alto saxophonists Benny Carter and Johnny Hodges. The band gained stability and developed ensemble discipline through regular performances at the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem during the 1930s. Webb's drumming, characterized by swing, taste, and virtuoso technique, was the cornerstone of the band, made even more remarkable by his short stature due to a curved spine.

From 1933, Edgar Sampson's arrangements, such as "Blue Lou" and "Stompin' at the Savoy," gave the band a unique character. Despite lacking major soloists, Webb's band consistently outperformed other leading swing bands in musical contests. The band's popularity soared after the teenage Ella Fitzgerald started recording novelty songs like "A-Tisket, A-Tasket" with them in 1935. After Webb's death from tuberculosis in 1939, Fitzgerald took over the leadership of the band for two years.