Cab Calloway, a famous bandleader in the
1930's and 40's, was best known for his over-
the-top style. Calloway grew up in Baltimore
and moved to Chicago to perform as a singer
and dancer. He achieved success in New York,
replacing Duke Ellington's band as the house
orchestra at the Cotton Club, where he
performed until the club's closing. Known as a
great bandleader and scat (improvising with
nonsense syllables) singer, he continued
performing into the 1980s. His most famous
song, "Minnie the Moocher," was recorded in
1931.
(AP Photo)
