William Henri Woode, born on September 25, 1909, in Omaha, Nebraska, was a distinguished American composer, lyricist, arranger, and singer. Known for his contributions to jazz and popular music, Woode's compositions include "A Night at the Vanguard," "Sweet Slumber," "You Taught Me to Love Again," and the jazz standard "Broadway," which was popularized by the Count Basie Orchestra. His career in music began early, with piano and accordion lessons in his youth, and he was performing piano concerts by the age of 10. Woode also worked as a theatre organist for silent films during his teenage years.

In 1930, Woode collaborated with Jaspar "Jap" Allen in Kansas City and Oklahoma, and in 1931, he joined the Lloyd Hunter Orchestra, a territory band based in Omaha. His tenure with the band was noted by drummer Jo Jones, who praised Woode's musical talents and innovative approach to music composition and ear training.

Woode's career included significant recordings, such as "Here Comes Marjorie" with the Kansas City Orchestra and "Rosetta" with Fats Waller and his Rhythm, among others. He also starred with his orchestra in the 1946 featurette film "Love in Syncopation." William Henri Woode passed away on May 31, 1994, leaving behind a legacy of influential music that continues to resonate in the jazz and popular music genres.