Harry James, born on March 15, 1916, and passing on July 5, 1983, was an illustrious American musician and bandleader, renowned for his virtuosic trumpet playing and his significant contributions to the big band and jazz genres. Emerging as a prominent figure in the swing era, James’ career was marked by his remarkable ability to blend technical prowess with emotive playing, creating a sound that was both accessible and sophisticated. His early years were spent honing his craft in circus bands, where his father worked as a bandleader, setting the stage for his later successes in the world of jazz and big band music.

Throughout the 1940s and beyond, Harry James and His Orchestra garnered acclaim and a loyal fanbase with hits like "It's Been A Long, Long Time," "I've Heard That Song Before," and a distinctive rendition of "Beyond the Sea." James was not only celebrated for his skilled trumpet performances but also for his knack for discovering and nurturing vocal talents, most notably Frank Sinatra, who found his first big break with James' band. The release of albums such as "Harry James 1965" and live performances like those captured on "I Had The Craziest Dream/I've Heard That Song Before/Cherry (Medley/Live On The Ed Sullivan Show, May 8, 1966)" illustrated his ability to adapt and thrive in the evolving music landscape. His efforts to preserve the big band sound are evident in collections like "The Marine Corps Transcriptions 1954" and "Radio Broadcasts (1943-1953)," showcasing his enduring influence on American music. Harry James' legacy lives on through his recordings and the continued appreciation for the big band era he helped define.

Genres

Big Band

Jazz Trumpet

Swing

Related Artists

Count Basie

Duke Ellington

Glenn Miller

Benny Goodman

Tommy Dorsey

Artie Shaw

Woody Herman

Louis Armstrong

Ella Fitzgerald

Miles Davis

Vince Guaraldi

Quincy Jones

Latest Release

It's Been A Long, Long Time

Harry James

Album - 23 Tracks - Released October 18, 2023