Arthur Schutt
Arthur Ray Schutt (November 21, 1902 - January 28, 1965) was an influential American jazz pianist and arranger, known for his contributions to the jazz scene during the 1920s. Born in Reading, Pennsylvania, Schutt was taught piano by his father and began playing for silent movies at the age of 13. His talent was recognized by bandleader Paul Specht in 1918, leading to a six-year collaboration, including a notable visit to London in 1923.
Schutt's career flourished as he worked with prominent figures such as Roger Wolfe Khan, Don Voorhees, Fred Rich, and Nat Shilkret. He was a key figure in the Georgians, a small group derived from Specht's Orchestra, and recorded with the Charleston Chasers, Red Nichols, the Dorsey Brothers' Orchestra, Benny Goodman, and notably with Frankie Trumbauer and Bix Beiderbecke in 1927.
As a composer, Schutt created several jazz tunes, including the popular "Delirium" in 1927. He was known for his unique chord voicings and percussive solos, which, although not widely influential, were distinctive during his era. Schutt led groups for recordings between 1929 and 1930 and continued to work as a studio musician, cutting two final piano solos in 1934.
In 1934, Schutt co-wrote "Georgia Jubilee" with Benny Goodman, and he composed the challenging ragtime piece "Bluin' the Black Keys." He moved to Hollywood, where he worked in recording studios and on film soundtracks with MGM from 1934 to 1949. Despite his talent, Schutt was rarely featured prominently in sessions, though he occasionally led his own band and played with Bud Freeman in 1939.
Later in life, Schutt moved to San Francisco, where he continued to perform until his death. He passed away at the age of 62 after a long illness, leaving behind a legacy of jazz compositions and recordings that continue to be celebrated by enthusiasts of the genre.