Cabell "Cab" Calloway III, born on December 25, 1907, in Rochester, New York, was a renowned American jazz singer, songwriter, and bandleader. Calloway rose to fame as a regular performer at Harlem's Cotton Club, a prestigious venue where he became a leading figure of the swing era. His unique blend of jazz and vaudeville, coupled with his mastery of scat singing, earned him widespread acclaim. Calloway's orchestra, known for its dynamic performances and talented musicians, was one of the most popular dance bands in the United States from the early 1930s to the late 1940s.

Calloway's band featured a lineup of exceptional musicians, including trumpeters Dizzy Gillespie and Adolphus "Doc" Cheatham, saxophonists Ben Webster and Leon "Chu" Berry, guitarist Danny Barker, bassist Milt Hinton, and drummer Cozy Cole. The orchestra was based at the Cotton Club for over a decade and was considered one of America's most important jazz bands. In 1930, Calloway replaced Duke Ellington at the Cotton Club, marking the beginning of a successful recording career with various labels, including Brunswick and Victor.

Cab Calloway's signature song, "Minnie the Moocher," recorded in 1931, became a massive hit, making him the first African-American musician to sell one million copies of a record. Known as the "Hi-de-ho" man of jazz, Calloway's influence extended beyond music to stage, film, and television. He appeared in films like "Stormy Weather" (1943) and "The Blues Brothers" (1980) and had a notable role in the musical "Porgy and Bess."

Despite the decline of big bands in the late 1940s, Calloway continued to perform, transitioning to a smaller group format. He remained active in the entertainment industry until his death on November 18, 1994, in Hockessin, Delaware. Calloway's legacy is celebrated through numerous honors, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame. His contributions to music and culture continue to be recognized and preserved.