Bix Beiderbecke

Bix Beiderbecke was the first talented white jazz cornet player. He also played the piano, but he had more success playing the cornet with a very personal style. His first recordings were with "The Wolverines" in 1924. After this he played in the Charlie Straight orchestra in 1925, with Jean Goldkette in 1926-27 and in the middle of that year he signed a contract with the famous Paul Whiteman. He stayed with Whiteman until 1929, with many interruptions. His alcohol abuse was dramatic during this time and was the main cause of his premature death. Bix was also a notable composer. His compositions like "In a Mist" and "In the Dark" are very advanced for the time. His more famous recordings were with his little orchestra, "Bix and his Gang", in 1927. He recorded great solos with his friend 'Frankie Trambauer' like "Singin' the Blues" and "I'm Coming, Virginia". With Whiteman he recorded many great solos like "Lonely Melody", "Dardanella", "Sweet Sue" and "Oh Miss Hannah" - this last song with Bing Crosby on vocals. His final recording was in 1930. He played a lovely rendition of "I'll be Friend with Pleasure".