Harry James

Harry James, "the man with two first names," was one of the most popular bandleaders of the World War II era. Growing up in a touring circus, he took to performing early. He started touring with bands in 1935 and launched his own orchestra in 1939.

After struggling for two years, he changed his musical approach to be slightly less jazzy and more melodic and found success, including a series of top ten recordings, radio shows, and even some movies. Along the way, he married his second wife, Betty Grable, one of the most popular actresses and pin-ups of the era.

As the big band era drew to a close after World War II, he, like many other band leaders, disbanded his orchestra, but, within a year, reformed it and continued to perform until his death. The Harry James Orchestra carries on his tradition today.

For more information, see Allmusic.com.

Series description provided by Frank Bell.