Cab Calloway American jazz singer Date of Birth: 25.12.1907 Country: USA

Biography of Cab Calloway

Cab Calloway, an American jazz singer, was born on December 25, 1907, in Rochester, New York, to a lawyer father. In 1918, his family moved to Maryland, where his organist mother found work in a local church. It was during this time that she insisted on Cab and his sister to pursue vocal training.

In 1924, Cab enrolled in Frederick Douglas High School, where he developed a passion for basketball. Despite his increased interest in sports, Calloway did not give up his love for music. He frequently visited jazz clubs and learned from jazz masters. Soon, Cab began performing at the Regent Theatre.

In 1927, Calloway joined his sister's orchestra and became so engrossed in music that he temporarily neglected his studies. However, his parents reminded him of the importance of education and encouraged him to pursue a career as a lawyer. Cab enrolled in the Crane College's law school in Chicago, where he occasionally performed with the school orchestra. His talent as a bandleader caught the attention of Irving Mills, a manager who enthusiastically supported Calloway and actively promoted his career.

In 1930, Irving arranged for Cab and his orchestra to perform at the prestigious Cotton Club in New York City. The group was soon renamed Cab Calloway's Cotton Club Orchestra, and they began working on their debut recording. Within a few years, Cab gained extraordinary popularity, and his stylish white suit became legendary.

In 1935, Calloway embarked on his first European tour. The Cotton Club closed in 1940, but Cab was immediately invited to perform at Club Zanzibar, where he recorded live for the first time. In 1942, he embarked on another highly successful tour. In 1947, Cab formed a seven-piece ensemble, which he later reduced to four members when the interest in big bands waned. He continued his active creative work.

By 1954, Cab Calloway primarily performed solo, mainly on Broadway. In the 1970s, he rarely appeared in public. The musician passed away in 1994 from heart failure.