November 19, 1905 – November 26, 1956
American trombonist and bandleader Tommy Dorsey not only gave the world Big Band era hits like “I’ll Never Smile Again,” “Marie” and “In the Blue of the Evening,” he also stole incorporated a number of huge stars into his band over the years. Drummers Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich, as well as a little-known vocalist named Frank something-or-other all sat in with Tommy. He also funded a young Glenn Miller’s first band. So, he kind of was a big deal for a while. Dorsey may have been known as “The Sentimental Gentleman of Swing” but his perfectionism and unsteady demeanor made him a chore to work with. Or so I’ve heard.
Celebrity Graveland 