Date of Birth: May 30, 1909
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Date of Death: June 13, 1986
Biography
Benny Goodman, often referred to as the “King of Swing,” was an American jazz and swing musician, clarinetist, and bandleader. Born on May 30, 1909, in Chicago, Illinois, Goodman was the ninth of twelve children in a Jewish immigrant family from Eastern Europe. His early exposure to music came from a local synagogue where he learned to play the clarinet. By the age of 14, he was already performing professionally. Goodman’s career took off in the mid-1930s when he formed his own band, which became one of the most popular and influential swing bands in the United States. His orchestra was pivotal in breaking down racial barriers in the music industry, being one of the first to feature both black and white musicians. Notable musicians who played with Goodman include Lionel Hampton, Teddy Wilson, and Gene Krupa. One of the most significant moments of his career was the concert at Carnegie Hall on January 16, 1938, which is considered one of the most important jazz concerts in history. Goodman continued to perform and record music throughout his life, leaving an indelible mark on the world of jazz and swing.
5 Interesting Facts about Benny Goodman
1. Benny Goodman was the first jazz musician to perform at Carnegie Hall.
2. He was a child prodigy, joining the American Federation of Musicians at the age of 14.
3. Goodman’s band was one of the first to integrate African-American and white musicians.
4. He won multiple Grammy Awards throughout his career.
5. Goodman was an accomplished classical musician and performed with major symphony orchestras.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Benny Goodman
1. “To this day, even when I hear swing music, I get goosebumps.”
2. “One of the things I like about jazz, kid, is I don’t know what’s going to happen next. Do you?”
3. “If a guy’s got it, let him give it. I’m selling music, not prejudice.”
4. “After you’ve done all the work and prepared as well as you can, what happens next is up to someone else.”
5. “I want to get the audience to feel that these tunes are really happening to them.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Benny Goodman’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
Benny Goodman had two daughters, Rachel and Benjie Goodman.
Relevant Links
1. [Benny Goodman on Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benny_Goodman
2. [Biography on AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/benny-goodman-mn0000166562/biography
4. [Jazz History Online](http://www.jazzhistoryonline.com/Benny_Goodman.html
5. [Grammy Awards](https://www.grammy.com/artists/benny-goodman/11492
