Cabell "Cab" Calloway, III
Born Dec. 25, 1907 - Died Nov. 18, 1994
Cab Calloway had several hit records in the 1930s and 1940s, becoming known as the "Hi-de-ho" man of jazz. In 1931, Calloway recorded his most famous song, "Minnie the Moocher". It is the first single song by an African American to sell a million records. He reached the Billboard charts in five consecutive decades (1930s–1970s). He was also the first African American musician to star in his own nationally syndicated radio show.
Some of his most famous songs were performed in three Betty Boop cartoons:
Minnie the Moocher (1932), Snow White (1933), and The Old Man of the Mountain (1933)
These are some of the absolute best and most memorable Betty shorts and that is thanks in large part to Cab Calloway. He performed the songs for these cartoons, and through a process called rotoscoping, his dance steps were the basis of the character's movements. His haunting voice coupled with the surreal animation elevate these cartoons to another level.
More recommended viewing: Jitterbug Party, Hi-De-Ho, Stormy Weather, Ed Sullivan Show
Cab Calloway: The Original Frontman
