“I’ll Get By,” “I Don’t Want to Walk Without You,” “I Cried for You,” “I Had the Craziest Dream” and “I’ve Heard That Song Before.” These – along with a salute to the songs of World War II – are the sounds you’ll savor when the Harry James Orchestra comes to town.
James learned to play the trumpet at age eight, and by ten was performing solo. He began playing with area orchestras and bands in the Beaumont, Texas area and soon joined the famous Ben Pollack group. It was on a Pollack recording that big band great Benny Goodman heard James play, and he hired him immediately.
After three successful years with the Goodman Band, James went out on his own, forming Harry James and his Music Makers. He subsequently heard a young singer in Englewood, New Jersey and was so impressed that he offered him a job. That singer was Frank Sinatra, and his recording with the James Orchestra, “All or Nothing at All” became a million-seller. James was also instrumental in launching the careers of singers Connie Haines, Helen Forrest and Kitty Callen.
Today, the Harry James Orchestra continues the tradition of mellow arrangements and the fine rhythmic playing that is its hallmark. Under the direction of Harry James’ lead trumpet virtuoso, Fred Radke, the band delights audiences worldwide.
