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The
photo shows Stand Kenton as he appeared
circa 1975 on a New Jersey club date.
I think the venue was on Route 4 in Paramus
called "The Steak Pit"--
which now sells bridal gowns.
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A
controversial bandleader who rose to recognition
in the early years of the Second World War, Los
Angeles bandleader Stan Kenton walked the line
between innovation and shtick. His band's theme
song, "Artistry in Rhythm," reflected
his desire to break down the barriers set by the
ballroom orchestras of his youth. In this respect,
he had an important role in popularizing jazz
concepts--and, later, with the release of "Cuban
Fire!" Latin ones as well.
His
crack rhythm sections sparked the career of many
a drummer and percussionist. Ambitious, as in
Kenton/Wagner--or curious, as in Stan Kenton!
Tex Ritter! He worked tirelessly to sustain a
big band throughout the tumultuous 1950's and
1960's when the form was dying out.
In
1977, he suffered a fall and blow to the head
that resulted in a fractured skull and blood clot
on the brain. Two years later, he died in Los
Angeles at the age of 67.
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