DATE
|
ACTIVITY
PLACE
SONGS (if known)
|
OTHER ARTISTS (if known)
COMMENTS
[SOURCES]
|
Jul/34? |
The "King, Jack and Jesters" come to New York
from Cincinnati. Paul Whiteman, who had a group called the King's Jesters,
asks them to change their name and they become the 4 Ink Spots. |
A number of inaccurate stories exist concerning
the selection of the name "Ink Spots". The real origin of the name is
probably lost. |
3-9Aug/34 |
Apollo Theatre, NYC. "...the Four Ink
Spots, harmonize a few numbers and were well received." [New York
Age, 11Aug/34, pg-4] |
IS billed as "4 Ink Spots" and are one of
support acts for Tiny Bradshaw & His Orch. Other performers – Dusty
Fletcher, John Mason, Jimmie Baskette, Florence Hill, Lee Simmons, Wilson
& Oliver, the Apollo Mermaids. This is the first IS activity for which
we have proof . [New York Amsterdam News, 4Aug/34, Apollo advertisement;
article, Afro-American, 4Aug/34] |
24-30? Aug/34 |
Roxy, NYC - "Excellent arrangements and catchy
hotcha style put them over easily. Went across heavy when caught. End
the act with a dance which is hot and effective." [Billboard, 8Sep/34] |
W/Herman Hyde & Co., Sally Burell, singer
Drew Gary, Four IS, Tom Lomas Company, Coltman Bros., Max & His Gang,
Gae Foster Girls. Movie: Charlie Chan's Courage. [Billboard, 1Sep/34,
Variety, 28Aug/34 & NY Daily News, 23Aug/34]
|
1934? |
Movie short--What A Business** (The
date of this movie is shown as 1935 by some sources but a copy of a Universal
Pictures letter to the Registrar of Copyrights, Library of Congress dated
9 Nov/34 asks for the return of the copyright copy(ies) |
Universal Pictures, L 5085, photoplay in two
reels, dialogue by Melvin Aaronson, directed by Milton Schwarzwald, starring
Smith & Dale. The Four Ink Spots sang Tiger Rag and Don't
'Low No Swingin' In Here
according to Jerry Daniels. We know of no existing copy of this film and
are anxious to locate one. |
1934 |
Per Marv Goldberg, the Ink Spots played a
variety of white and "Chittlin' Circuit" theaters including the Waldorf-Astoria,
the Apollo, the Roxy and the Savoy Ballroom in New York as well as the
Howard in Washington and the West End in Philadelphia. **Unknown songs
except for closing dance and song: -Tiger Rag |
We only have limited information for Apollo
and Roxy theaters in Aug/34. |
29Sep/34 |
Depart for England on Ile De France – Tour
with Jack Hylton's Band. Other cities reported to be Manchester** (nothing
in Guardian), Sheffield** (we have a note that they appeared at the Danell
Dance Hall on Main Road, Sheffield where they volunteered to perform in
a charity Variety Show for Darnell Medical Aid) and Liverpool** in England
and Glasgow** and Edinburgh** in Scotland. |
[Variety, 2Oct/34; Afro-American,
6Oct/34] Transatlantic broadcasts** were made on BBC. We are anxious to
locate any information concerning this tour and the BBC broadcasts. The
Ink Spots performed for other passengers during the crossing per Watson
[pg. 25]. |
8-14Oct/34? |
Birmingham, England |
A note in the Melody Maker [13Oct/34,
pg. 1] states that, "the Four Ink Spots are putting over an act which
is a combination of instrumental fireworks, singing and dancing, and have
been breaking themselves in at Birmingham." It goes on to say that
next week they will appear at the Palladium in London so this appearance
must have been the preceeding week.
"On their opening in Birmingham they were clearly too far advanced
to get over with the average lay audience, but after Jack had 'commercialised'
them they stopped the show." [Melody Maker, 20Oct/34] |
15-20Oct/34 |
Palladium, London, England. A note in the
Melody Maker [20Oct/34, pg. 1] states, "The sensation of the
programme, however, is the coloured guartette, the Four Ink Spots. They
sing in a style something between the Mills Brothers and the Three Keys,
and accompany themselves on three tenor guitars and a 'cello-which is
not bowed, but picked and slapped like a double bass.
Their natural instinct for hot rhythm is exemplified in their terrific
single-string solo work and their beautifully balanced and exquisitely
phrased vocalisms.
They exploit all kinds of rhythmic vocalisms-straight solos, concerted,
scat, and instrumental imitations.
They even throw in a bit of dancing to conclude thir act, and the leading
guitarist simultaneously plays and juggles with his instrument."" |
Jack Hylton & Band, -other acts included
Belle Baker, 4 Ink Spots(1st time in London), 3 Gaylors, Dave
& Joe O'Gormon, Bernice & Emily, Hazel Mangean Girls, Tessie O'Shea,
Leo Fuld, Alec Templeton, 16 Palladium Girls. [The Daily Herald,
Monday 15Oct/34, pg. 10. |
22-27? Oct/34 |
The Hippodrome, Birmingham, England |
** |
7Nov/34 |
Hammersmith Palais, London |
[Melody Maker, 27Oct/34] |
week |
Paramount, Manchester |
"Next week Jack takes his show to the
Paramount Theatre, Manchester, and a great show it is. In particular will
this afford Lancastrian musicians an opportunity to see and hear that
wonderful rhythmic act, The Four Inkspots, which, since its arrival in
England to take part in the "America Calling' section of Jack's show,
has gone from strength to strength, and now shares honours with the Three
Gaylords as the high spots of the production. [Melody Maker, 3Nov/34,
pg. 1] |
?nov/34 |
Liverpool Press Club
When the Ink Spots arrived they, "were not allowed to depart before
they ahd rendered some forty numbers to the delighted audience-surely
a world record." [Melody Maker, 10Nov/34] |
At a performance of the Angels, a non-professional
six-piece dance band formed by Liverpool journalists, Jack Hylton appeared
during the week of his appearance at the Paramount in Mancester and conducted
the group and the Ink Spots arrived later. [Melody Maker, 10Nov/34]
|
12-18Nov/34 |
Empire, Edinburgh, Scotland, |
Jack Hylton His Band w/ a number of other
artists including the Four Inkspots, the Three Gaylords, Leo Fuld and
Alex Templeton, Eric Mason and the Yurgis Trio. [The Scotsman, 13
Nov/34, p.12] |
19-24Nov/34 |
Empire, Glasgow, Scotland, 2 shows at 6:40
& 8:50. |
Jack Hylton His Band w/Leo Fuld, Alex Templeton,
Four Inkspots, Three Gaylords, Tessie O'Shea, Eric Mason, The Yurgis Trio.
[The Glasgow Herald, 19Nov/34] Brief review includes, "…the bandsmen,
together with other artists, take part in a radio revue which undoubtedly
completes one of the best and liveliest bills this theatre has had for
a long time." Reference to the Ink Spots says only, "…other artists include
the Four Inkspots, who entertain with music, song, and dance:…" [The
Glasgow Herald, 20Nov/34] |
Nov?/34 |
Partick Baptist Church, Crow Road, Glasgow |
A note from K. Gordon of Glasgow indicates
his mother attended a Baptist church performance at the Partick Baptist
Church on Crow Road in Glasgow where the Ink Spots performed sometime
in the 1930s and indicates they were happy to have white people treat
them as equals. Did they sing at a number of churches during their tour? |
7Dec/34 |
BBC, Friday, 8:00-9:00PM. Ink Spots sing: |
"Then the Four Ink Spots showed us what
rhythm really is. They sang two numbers, much too short for my taste...
Naturally these boys are compared to the Mills Brothers, Boswell Sisters
and other singers in concerted rhythm, but their style is original and
most fascinating." [Melody Maker, 15Dec/34] |
-I Never Slept A Wink Last Night |
|
-Yeah Man |
|
8Dec/34 |
BBC, 4:15-5:15PM |
unknown songs with Jack Hylton [The Radio
Times, 30Nov/34] |
12Dec/34 |
BBC, 10:35PM-12:00AM, Ink Spots sing: |
"...their instruments, except for the
guitar solo in the first number, were rather overpowered by their voices,
which was a pity, because I like their playing as much as I do their singing."
[Melody Maker, 22Dec/34] |
-You Wonderful Thing |
|
-Back In Nagasaki |
|
26Dec/34 |
Arrive back in US via Queen Mary |
[Goldberg, pg. 19] |
4Jan/35 |
RCA recording debut, New York Studios-songs: |
(Record and matrix numbers are
provided in the Discography for all recordings.)
|
-Swingin' On the Strings |
-Your Feet's Too Big |
-(Mama) Don't ‘Low No Swingin' In Here |
-Swing, Gate, Swing |
25Feb/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30 P.M. 4 Ink Spots begin
broadcasts on WJZ, New York, NBC Blue Network coast-to coast, Mondays,
Wednesdays and Fridays at 11:30PM |
[New York Amsterdam News, 23Feb/35;
Boston Globe, 25Feb/35] |
29Feb/35 |
NBC-WJZ, 11:30P.M.-Negro Quartet |
Many newspapers listed Ink Spots broadcasts
without naming the group!! This is one broadcast listed only as a Novelty
Negro Quartet in the New York Herald Tribune [29Feb/35]. We know
many broadcasts listed in New York city papers as Negro Quartet or similar
wording to be the Ink Spots. Reasons include the fact that we have actual
broadcasts or other newpaper listings naming the Ink Spots. Therefore,
we have listed selected broadcasts where there is a very high certainty
that the group is the Ink Spots and add the words, "Negro Quartet" in
such cases. |
1Mar/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 1Mar/35] |
4Mar/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
6Mar/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [New York Herald
Tribune] |
11Mar/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
13Mar/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [New York Herald
Tribune] |
18Mar/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday w/Jolly Coburn Orch. [New
York Herald Tribune] |
20Mar/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday w/Jolly Coburn Orch.
[New York Herald Tribune] |
22Mar/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 22Mar/35] |
25Mar/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 25Mar/35] |
27Mar/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday w/Jolly Coburn Orch.
[New York Herald Tribune] |
29Mar/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 29Mar/35] |
1Apr/35? |
Radio-WENR, Chicago, Sinclair Oil Program,
9:00PM with national NBC hook-up, 30 minutes |
The Afro-American, 13Apr/35 reports
4 weekly shows beginning with this date. |
1Apr/35? |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30PM, 15 min. |
Listed as Ink Spots in Pittsburgh Courier,
[30Mar/35], but shown as "Guggenheim Awards in New York Herald Tribune
?? |
3Apr/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30PM, 15 min. |
Listed as "Quartet; Jolly" in New York
Herald Tribune but as Ink Spots in Pittsburgh Courier, [30Mar/35] |
5Apr/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30PM, 15 min. |
Listed as "Quartet; Coburn orch." in New
York Herald Tribune but as Ink Spots in [Pittsburgh Courier,
30Mar/35] |
8 Apr/35 |
Radio-WENR, 9:00P.M |
[Afro-American, 13Apr/35] |
8Apr/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/35&Boston
Globe, 8Apr/35] |
10Apr/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/35] |
12Apr/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/35] |
15Apr/35 |
Radio-WENR, 9:00PM |
[Afro-American, 13Apr/35] |
15Apr/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/35 but listed
as only Jolly Coburn Orch. in NY Herald Tribune, 15Apr/35] |
17Apr/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/3535 but
listed as only Jolly Coburn Orch. in NY Herald Tribune, 17Apr/35] |
19Apr/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/3535 but
listed as only Jolly Coburn Orch. in NY Herald Tribune, 19Apr/35] |
22Apr/35 |
Radio-WENR, 9:00PM |
[Afro-American, 13Apr/35] |
24Apr/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 24Apr/35] |
26Apr/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 24Apr/35] |
29Apr/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 24Apr/35] |
1May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 1May/35] |
3May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 3May/35] |
6May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 6May/35] |
8May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 8May/35] |
13May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 11May/35] |
15May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 11May/35] |
17May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 11May/35] |
20May/35 |
Radio-NBC Minstrels. Ink Spots songs included: |
"The Four Inkspots seem to be a regular part
of the N.B.C. Minstrels every Monday night. The boys have made quite a
name for themselves in radio after returnign from Europe some months ago.
Their offering of "Chinatown, My Chinatown," last week, was exceptionally
good. [NY Amsterdam News, 25May/35] |
-Chinatown, My Chinatown |
|
20May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 20May/35] |
22May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 22May/35] |
24May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Harrisburg Telegraph, 24 May/35] |
27May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 27May/35] |
29May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 29May/35] |
31May/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 31May/35] |
3Jun/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 3Jun/35] |
5Jun/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 5Jun/35] |
7Jun/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 7Jun/35] |
10Jun/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 10Jun/35] |
12Jun/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 12Jun/35] |
14Jun/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 14Jun/35] |
17Jun/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 17Jun/35] |
19Jun/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[NY Amsterdam News, 15Jun/35] |
21Jun/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:30P.M. |
[NY Amsterdam News, 15Jun/35] |
24Jun/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 21Jun/35] |
28Jun/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 28Jun/35] |
1Jul/35 |
WJZ, 11:22PM |
] [Boston Globe, 1Jul/35] |
3Jul/35 |
WJZ, 11:22PM |
[NY Herald Tribune, 3Jul/35] |
5Jul/35 |
WJZ, 11:22PM |
[Boston Globe, 5Jul/35] |
8Jul/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22PM |
[Boston Globe, 8Jul/35] |
10Jul/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22PM |
[New York Amsterdam News [6Jul/35] |
12Jul/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22PM |
[Boston Globe, 12Jul/35] |
15Jul/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22PM |
[Boston Globe, 15Jul/35] |
17Jul/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22PM |
[NY Amsterdam News, 17Jul/35] |
19Jul/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:15PM |
[Boston Globe, 19Jul/35] |
22Jul/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22PM |
[Boston Globe, 22Jul/35] |
24Jul/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:15PM |
[NY Amsterdam News, 20Jul/35] |
26Jul/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:15PM |
[NY Amsterdam News, 20Jul/35] |
29Jul/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:22PM |
[NY Amsterdam News, 27Jul/35] |
31Jul/35 |
Radio-WJZ, 11:15PM |
[NY Amsterdam News, 27Jul/35] |
2Aug/35 |
WJZ, 11:22PM |
[Star-Gazette, 2Aug/35] |
5Aug/35 |
WJZ, 11:22PM |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 3Aug/35] |
7Aug/35 |
Radio-WMAL, Washington, 10:15PM |
[Washington Post, 7Aug/35] |
WJZ, 11:15PM |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 3Aug/35] |
9Aug/35 |
Radio-WJZ, NBC Network, NYC, Live, 11:15 P.M.,
15 min., Friday, songs: |
The 4 Ink Spots with two guitars, a tipple
(10 string, tinny sounding, mandolin-like instrument played by Fuqua)
and a cello. First available broadcast – see Discography for details.
[Pittsburgh Courier, 3Aug/35] |
-Swingin' On the Strings |
|
-Did You Ever See A Dream Walking? |
First known Hoppy patter |
-The Old Spinning Wheel |
|
-Babs |
|
-Baby Brown |
|
12Aug/35 |
WJZ, 11:22PM |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 10Aug/35] |
14Aug/35 |
WMAL, Washington, 10:15PM |
[Washington Post, 14Aug/35] |
WJZ, 11:15PM |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 10Aug/35] |
16Aug/35 |
WJZ, 11:15PM |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 10Aug/35] |
19Aug/35 |
WJZ, 11:15PM |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 17Aug/35] |
21Aug/35 |
WMAL, 10:15PM |
[Washington Post, 21Aug/35] |
WJZ, 11:15PM |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 11:15PM] |
23Aug/35 |
WJZ, 11:15PM |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 17Aug/35] |
26Aug/35 |
WJZ, 11:22PM |
[NY Amsterdam News, 26Aug/35] |
28Aug/35 |
WJZ, 11:15PM |
[NY Amsterdam News, 28Aug/35] |
30Aug/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[New York Herald Tribune, 30Aug/35] |
31Aug-1Sep/35 |
Mosque, Richmond, VA, in a revue headed by
Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, incomparable tap dancer and a supporting
cast of Metropolitan Specialty Stars. |
W/Slim & Eddie, Eunice Wilson, Putney
Dandridge, Frank Robinson, Duncan Sisters, Adison Carey MC. [New York
Age, 7Sep/35] |
2Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 2Sep/35] |
4Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M., songs included: |
"The Four Ink Spots over their NBC hookup
last Wednesday night "brought down the house" with their rendition of
"My Old Man" [The Afro-American, 7Sep/35] |
-My Old Man |
|
6Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[New York Herald Tribune, 6Sep/35] |
9Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[The Mercury, 9Sep/35] |
11Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Gazette & Daily, 11Sep/35] |
13Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[New York Herald Tribune, 13Sep/35] |
16Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 14Sep/35] |
18Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 14Sep/35] |
20Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[New York Herald Tribune, 20Sep/35] |
23Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[The Mercury, 23Sep/35] |
25Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Democrat & Chronicle, 25Sep/35] |
27Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[New York Herald Tribune, 27Sep/35] |
30Sep/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Harrisburgh Telegraph, 30Sep/35] |
4Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[New York Herald Tribune, 4Oct/35] |
7Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[NY Amsterdam News, 5Oct/35] |
9Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[NY Amsterdam News, 5Oct/35] |
11Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[New York Herald Tribune,
11Oct/35] |
14Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[NY Amsterdam News, 12Oct/35] |
16Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[NY Amsterdam News, 12Oct/35] |
18Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[New York Herald Tribune, 18Oct/35] |
21Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[NY Amsterdam News, 19Oct/35] |
23Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 23Oct/35] |
25Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[New York Herald Tribune, 25Oct/35] |
28Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[NY Amsterdam News, 26Oct/35] |
30Oct/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 30Oct/35] |
1Nov/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
15 min., Friday [New York Herald Tribune] |
4Nov/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Pittsburgh Courier, 2Nov/35] |
6Nov/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 6Nov/35] |
8Nov/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
15 min., Friday [New York Herald Tribune] |
8-14Nov/35 |
Apollo, NYC-songs: |
4 Ink Spots headline with Chick Webb and His
Band featuring Ella Fitzgerald, Bardou Ali & Charlie Lintin. Also
Sandy Burns, Jelli Smith, Geo. Wiltshire, Apus Brooks, Jackie Mabley,
Al Moore, 3 Ragamuffins, Leonard Harper's Beauty Chorus. Movie: Special
Agent. "The quartet of guitar-stringing brownskin lads were the high spot
of a good stage show." [New York Amsterdam News, 9&16Nov/35] |
-Lulu's Back In Town |
|
-Your Feet's Too Big |
|
-(Mama) Don't 'Low No Swingin' in Here |
|
11Nov/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[The Mercury, 11Nov/35] |
13Nov/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 13Nov/35] |
15Nov/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
15 min., Friday [New York Herald Tribune] |
18Nov/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[The Mercury, 18Nov/35] |
20Nov/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 20Nov/35] |
25Nov/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[The Mercury, 25Nov/35] |
27Nov/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 27Nov/35] |
2Dec/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[The Mercury, 2Dec/35] |
4Dec/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 4Dec/35] |
9Dec/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Cincinnati Enquirer, 9Dec/35] |
11Dec/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 11Dec/35] |
13Dec/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[The Mercury, 13Dec/35] |
25Dec/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Harrisburg Telegraph, 25Dec/35] |
27Dec/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Warren Times Mirror, 27Dec/35] |
30Dec/35 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[The Mercury, 30Dec/35] |
1Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 1Jan/36] |
3Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 3Jan/36] |
6Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 6Jan/36] |
8Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[NY Amsterdam News, 4Jan/36] |
10Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 10Jan/36] |
13Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 13Jan/36] |
15Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 15Jan/36] |
17Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Gazette and Daily, 17Jan/36] |
20Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 20Jan/36] |
22Jan/36? |
NBC-WJZ, Gems of Color, 10:30 P.M. |
[NY Herald Tribune, 22Jan/36] |
24Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 24Jan/36] |
27Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Evening News, 27Jan/36] |
31Jan/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[The Mercury, 31Jan/36] |
Early 1936 |
Jerry Daniels decides to retire from group
and Bill Kenny is replacement |
Although many sources suggest Kenny joined
the group as late as 1939 just in time for their all-time hit, "If I Didn't
Care", Kenny can be heard clearly on their first Decca recording –Your
Feet's Too Big. |
3Feb/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 3Feb/36] |
5Feb/36? |
NBC-WEAF, Gems of Color weekly radio show,
10:30P.M. |
[NY Herald Tribune, 5Feb/36] |
7Feb/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 7Feb/36] |
10Feb/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 10Feb/36] |
12Feb/36 |
NBC-WEAF, Gems of Color, 10:30P.M. |
W/ Chick Webb Orch, Ella Fitzgerald, Cecil
Mack's Choir. [NY Amsterdam News, 8Feb/35]. Cleveland Call & Post,
20Feb/36 picture caption indicates, "The Four Ink Spots, a novelty instrumental
and vocal quartet is one of the popular features…" |
14Feb/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 14Feb/36] |
17Feb/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 17Feb/36] |
19Feb/36 |
NBC-WJZ, Gems of Color, 10:30P.M. |
[NY Herald Tribune, 19Feb/36] |
21Feb/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 21Feb/36] |
24Feb/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 24Feb/36] |
26Feb/36 |
NBC-WJZ, Gems of Color weekly radio show,
10:30P.M. |
W/ Chick Webb Orch, Ella Fitzgerald, Cecil
Mack's Choir. [Afro-American, 29Feb/36] |
28Feb/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 28Feb/36] |
2Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 2Mar/36] |
4Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ, Gems of Color weekly radio show,
10:30P.M.? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 4Mar/36] |
6Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Cincinnati Enquirer, 6Mar/36] |
9Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 9Mar/36] |
11Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ, Gems of Color weekly radio show,
10:30P.M. |
W/ Chick Webb Orch, Ella Fitzgerald, Cecil
Mack's Choir. [Afro-American, 14Mar/36] |
13Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 13Mar/36] |
16Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 16Mar/36] |
18Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Cincinnati Enquirer, 18Mar/36] |
20Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 20Mar/36] |
23Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 23Mar/36] |
25Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ, Gems of Color weekly radio show,
10:30P.M.? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 25Mar/36] |
27Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 27Mar/36] |
30Mar/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 30Mar/36] |
3Apr/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 3Apr/36] |
6Apr/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 6Apr/36] |
8Apr/36 |
NBC-Good Times Society, 10:30, WJZ? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 8Apr/36] |
10Apr/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 10Apr/36] |
12Apr/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Morning News, 12Apr/36] |
17Apr/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 17Apr/36] |
20Apr/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[NY Herald Tribune, 20Apr/36] |
24Apr/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 24Apr/36] |
27Apr/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Daily Times, 27Apr/36] |
1May/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 1May/36] |
1-7May/36 |
Apollo, NYC, "The Ink Spots have plenty
on that ball, but it's our pet, William Kenney, who really sells them;
Tall, handsome , he had the girls "oh-ing" and "ah-ing"
all over the place, but best of all, he can really sing. The audience
heartily agreed. [New York Age, Joe Bostie, 9May/36] Songs included: |
IS have top billing now. Also Sunshine Sammy
& the Hardy Bros. Band, Lucky Sisters, Ford, Reading & Royce,
McClain & Ross, Norman Astwood, Margaret Simms, Pigmeat, John Mason,
Monty Hawley, Bernham, Harris & Scott, 16 Operettes. Movie: The Crime
of Doctor Crispi". [New York Amsterdam News, 2May/36] |
-Lost |
Bill Kenney, the soloist rang the bell singing
'Lost.' " [New York Age, 16May/36] |
8May/36 |
NBC-Good Times Society, 8:30, WJZ |
W/Juano Hernandez, Chick Webb & His Orch., Ella Fitzgerald,
Juanita Hall Choir. [NY Amsterdam News, 9May/36] |
12May/36 |
Recording debut for Decca-songs: |
|
-Your Feet's Too Big |
Interesting to compare this version with Kenny
to 1935 version with Daniels |
-‘T Ain't Nobody's Biz-ness If I Do |
|
15May/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 15May/36] |
18May/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Kingston Daily Freeman, 18May/36] |
21May/36 |
NBC-Good Times Society, 8:30, WJZ |
[New York Herald Tribune, 21May/36] |
22May/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 22May/36] |
25May/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Kingston Daily Freeman, 25May/36] |
28May/36 |
NBC-Good Times Society, 7:30, WJZ |
W/Juano Hernandez, Chick Webb & His Orch.,
Ella Fitzgerald, Juanita Hall Choir. [New York Age, 30May/36] |
1Jun/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 1Jun/36] |
5Jun/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Democrat & Chronicle, 5Jun/36] |
8Jun/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
I5 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 8Jun/36] |
12Jun/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Friday [New York Herald Tribune] |
17Jun/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.00 P.M. - News, Ink Spots
Quartette |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 17Jun/36] |
18Jun/36 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-Stompin' At the Savoy |
|
-Old Joe's Hittin' the Jug |
|
-Keep Away From My Doorstep |
|
-Christopher Columbus |
|
19Jun/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Friday [New York Herald Tribune] |
22Jun/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
24Jun/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.00 P.M. - News, Ink Spots
Quartette |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 24Jun/36] |
26Jun/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[New York Herald Tribune, 26Jun/36] |
29Jun/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
1Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.00 P.M. - News, Ink Spots
Quartette |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 1Jul/36] |
3Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[New York Herald Tribune, 3Jul/36] |
6Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday,"Some act had to lead
the pepper pot pack and this is it." [New York Age, 11Jul/36] |
8Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.00 P.M. - News, Ink Spots
Quartette |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 8Jul/36] |
10July/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Star-Gazette, 10Jul/36] |
13Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
15Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.00 P.M. - News, Ink Spots
Quartette |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 15Jul/36] |
17Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Star-Gazette, 17Jul/36] |
20Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
22Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.00 P.M. - News, Ink Spots
Quartette |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 22Jul/36] |
24Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Star-Gazette, 24Jul/36] |
27Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
29Jul/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.00 P.M. - News, Ink Spots
Quartette |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 29Jul/36] |
3Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
5Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.00 P.M. - News, Ink Spots
Quartette |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 5Aug/36] |
7Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 7Aug/36] |
10Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
12Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.00 P.M. - News, Ink Spots
Quartette |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 12Aug/36] |
14Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Star-Gazette, 14Aug/36] |
17Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
19Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.00 P.M. - News, Ink Spots
Quartette |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 19Aug/36] |
21Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Star-Gazette, 21Aug/36] |
24Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
26Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.00 P.M. - News, Ink Spots
Quartette |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 26Aug/36] |
28Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Star-Gazette, 28Aug/36] |
31Aug/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [New York Herald Tribune] |
2Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 2Sep/36] |
4Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 4Sep/36] |
7Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 7Sep/36] |
9Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 9Sep/36] |
11Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 11Sep/36] |
14Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 14Sep/36] |
16Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 16Sep/36] |
18Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 18Sep/36] |
21Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 21Sep/36] |
25Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 25Sep/36] |
28Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 28Sep/36] |
30Sep/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 30Sep/36] |
2Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 2Oct/36] |
5Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 5Oct/36] |
7Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 7Oct/36] |
9Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 9Oct/36] |
12Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 12Oct/36] |
14Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 14Oct/36] |
16Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 16Oct/36] |
16-22Oct/36 |
Apollo, NYC |
IS are second billed to Chick Webb & His
Orch. with Ella Fitzgerald, Charlie Linton & Bardou Ali. Also Chink
Collins, Madeline Belt, Jackie Mabley, Sandy Burns, Dusty Fletcher, Geo.
Wiltshire, 6 Cotton Club Boys, 12 Careyettes. Movie: It Couldn't Have
Happened. [New York Amsterdam News, 17Oct/36] |
19Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 19Oct/36] |
21Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 21Oct/36] |
23Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 23Oct/36] |
26Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 26Oct/36] |
28Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 28Oct/36] |
30Oct/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
[Boston Globe, 30Oct/36] |
4Nov/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Star-Gazette, 4Nov/36] |
6Nov/36 |
2:30 P.M. - NBC/RCA Television Demonstration.
Ink Spots perform on the first live TV demonstration at NBC and, on the
basis of this, are the first black performers to appear on television
in the U.S. Variety states: "Later the Inkspots, a colored comedy
- singing unit - put on a three-minute skit with all the stage makeup
trappings. Couple of full-length showings were used here and the boys
were in motion besides. It worked out okay." (Since they are the first
performers mentioned in the article, the Ink Spots may have been the first
performers of any color to perform on TV in the U.S.) [Variety,
11Nov/36 & New York Times, 7 Nov/36] |
The 40 minute program was broadcast from the
transmitter on top of the Empire State Building and was received on the
62nd floor of the RCA building in the first live demonstration
conducted for the Press [November 6, 1936 Press Release from NBC Television].
In addition to the Ink Spots, Hildegrarde, "The Television Girl", colored
comedy teams and announcer Betty Goodwin participated. |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 6Nov/36] |
9Nov/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Star-Gazette, 9Nov/36] |
11Nov/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 11Nov/36] |
13Nov/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 13Nov/36] |
16Nov/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio, 11:15 P.M. |
[Democrat & Chronicle, 16Nov/36] |
18Nov/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 18Nov/36] |
20Nov/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 20Nov/36] |
23Nov/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 23Nov/36] |
25Nov/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 25Nov/36] |
27Nov/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 27Nov/36] |
30Nov/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 30 Nov/36] |
15Dec/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
[Democrat & Chronicle, 15Dec/36] |
17Dec/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
[NY Herald Tribune, 17Dec/36] |
18Dec/36 |
NBC, WBZ, 10:30PM, Friday |
[Boston Globe, 18Dec/36] |
21Dec/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 21Dec/36] |
25Dec/36 |
NBC-WBZ, 10:30PM
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M.
|
[Boston Globe, 25Dec/36]
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 25Dec/36]
|
30Dec/36 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 30Dec/36] |
1Jan/37 |
NBC-WBZ&WJZ, 10:30PM
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M.
|
[Boston Globe & NY Herald Tribune,
1Jan/37]
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 1Jan/37]
|
4Jan/37 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Monday [NY Times, 4Jan/37] |
6Jan/37 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 6Jan/37] |
8Jan/37 |
NBC-WBZ&WJZ, 10:30PM |
[Boston Globe & NY Herald Tribune,
8Jan/37] |
13Jan/37 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 13Jan/37] |
16Jan/37 |
WEAF radio @11:15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 16Jan/37] |
20Jan/37 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 20Jan/37] |
23Jan/37 |
WEAF radio @11:15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 23Jan/37] |
27Jan/37 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 27Jan/37] |
30Jan/37 |
WEAF radio @11:15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 30Jan/37] |
2Feb/37 |
WSB, radio @9:45P.M., "Melody Meetin,"
with John Henry, Melody Meetin's main man, The Ink Spots, Eddie Mathews
singing star of opera Porgy and Bess. Sponsored by Alaga Syrup. |
[Atlanta Constitution, 2Feb/37] |
3Feb/37 |
NBC-WJZ radio @11.15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 3Feb/37] |
5Feb/37 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-Alabama Barbeque |
|
-Don't Let Old Age Creep Up On You |
|
-With Plenty of Money and You |
A great modern version of this song is out
by the Manhattan Rhythm Kings |
-Yes Suh! |
|
6Feb/37 |
NBC-WEAF radio @11:15 P.M. |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 6Feb/37] |
8Feb/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 10:00PM, Chick Webb's Good Times
society, the Ink Spots were regulars on this show. On one show, for which
air checks exist, they sang: |
[NY Herald Tribune, 8Feb/37] |
-Swing, Mr. Charlie |
|
10Feb/37 |
NBC-WEAF, Red Network, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 10Feb/37] |
13Feb/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 13Feb/37] |
17Feb/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 17Feb/37] |
20Feb/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 20Feb/37] |
24Feb/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 24Feb/37] |
27Feb/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 27Feb/37] |
3Mar/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 3Mar/37] |
6Mar/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 6Mar/37] |
8Mar/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 9:00PM, Good Times society? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 8Mar/37] |
10Mar/37 |
NBC, 10:15PM |
[Boston Globe, 10Mar/37] |
13Mar/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 13Mar/37] |
20Mar/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 20Mar/37] |
27Mar/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 27Mar/37] |
29Mar/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 9:00PM, Good Times society? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 29Mar/37] |
3Apr/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 3Apr/37] |
9Apr/37 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-Whoa Babe |
|
-Let's Call the Whole Thing Off |
|
-Swing High, Swing Low |
|
-Slap That Bass |
|
10Apr/37 |
NBC-WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 10Apr/37] |
12Apr/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 9:00PM, Good Times society? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 12Apr/37] |
14Apr/37 |
NBC Radio, Blue Network, WJZ, 3:45PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 14Apr/37] |
26Apr/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 9:00PM, Good Times society? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 26Apr/37] |
28Apr/37 |
NBC Radio, Blue Network, WJZ, 3:45PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 28Apr/37] |
3May/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 9:00PM, Good Times society? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 3May/37] |
10May/37 |
Hillview Tavern, West Fairview, PA |
Also Jimmy Thompson [Harrisburg Telegraph,
10May/37] |
14-20May/37 |
Apollo, NYC |
W/ Blanche Calloway & Orch., Helen Page,
Baby DeLeon, Rhythm Willie, Maxie Armstrong, Norman & Blake, Guido
& Eve, Dusty Fletcher, Sandy Burns, Geo. Wiltshire and the Sixteen
Lovely Dancing Harperettes. Movie: The Man Who Found Himself. [New
York Age, 15May/37 |
17May/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 9:00PM, Good Times society? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 17May/37] |
25May/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 9:00PM, Good Times society? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 25May/37] |
27May/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
[Baltimore Sun, 27May/37] |
31May/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 9:00PM, Good Times society? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 31May/37] |
3Jun/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 3Jun/37] |
7Jun/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 9:00PM, Good Times society? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 7Jun/37] |
10Jun/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 10Jun/37] |
17Jun/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 17Jun/37] |
24Jun/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 24Jun/37] |
28Jun/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 9:00PM, Good Times society? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 28Jun/37] |
1Jul/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
[Radio Guide, Jul/37] |
5Jul/37 |
NBC-WJZ, 9:00PM, Good Times society? |
[NY Herald Tribune, 5Jul/37] |
8Jul/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 8Jul/37] |
15Jul/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 15Jul/37] |
29Jul/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 29Jul/37] |
5Aug/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 5Aug/37] |
12Aug/37 |
NBC, 11:15PM |
[Kingston Daily Freeman, 12Aug/37] |
19Aug/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 19Aug/37] |
26Aug/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 26Aug/37] |
2Sep/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 2Sep/37] |
8Sep/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 8Sep/37] |
15Sep/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 8Sep/37] |
22Sep/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
22 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 8Sep/37] |
29Sep/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
29 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 8Sep/37] |
3-31Oct/37 |
Hotel Bennett, Binghamton, NY |
Sans Souci Grill – 4:30 to 5:30
Crimson Coffee Shop – 9 to 1:00AM. Featuring Thurs., Fri. &
Sat. The Wandering Minstrels with Annabelle Lee. Also Jack Brown, Madelon
Ianere.
[Binghamton Press, Saturday, 29Sep/37, p.14]
|
6Oct/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
29 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 6Oct/37] |
13Oct/37 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
29 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 13Oct/37] |
19-25Nov/37 |
Apollo, NYC |
IS headline w/Edgar Hayes & His Orch.
with Ruth Ellington, Jigsaw Jackson, Billy Branch & Co., Larry Seymour,
Buddy & Judy Allen, Dusty Fletcher, Sandy Burns, Geo. Wiltshire, 16
Lovely, Perfectly-Trained Clarence Robinson Girls. Movie: Outlaws of the
Orient. [New York Amsterdam News, 20Nov/37] |
11Dec/37 – 7Jan/38 |
Hotel Bennett, Binghamton, NY |
Crimson Coffee Shop – 9 to 1:00AM
On Thurs., Fri., & Sat. also with the Wandering Minstrels &
Anna Belle Lee, Jack Brown, Madelon Ianere.
Special New Year Show in 3 rooms:
Persian Room, Ballroom & Crimson Coffee Shop w/Red Henderson
Orch & blues singer Anita Ianere, Jack Brown, Madelon Ianere, tap
dancer Anna Belle Lee, Eve Brien. Cover charge $1.50. [Binghamton
Press, 9 & 10Dec/37; 7Jan/38]
|
11Jan/38 |
WEAF, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 11Jan/38] |
12Jan/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes with news, Wednesday [NY Times,
12Jan/38] |
18Jan/38 |
WEAF, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 18Jan/38] |
19Jan/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes with news, Wednesday [NY Times,
19Jan/38] |
22Jan/38-?Feb/38 |
Hotel Bennett, Binghamton, NY |
"Four Inkspots, NBC singing quartet, returned
to the Hotel Bennet, Binghamton, N. Y., this week for a four-week run."
[Billboard, Club Talent column, 22Jan/38] |
25Jan/38 |
WEAF, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 25Jan/38] |
26Jan/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes with news, Wednesday [NY Times,
26Jan/38] |
27Jan/38 |
WEAF, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 27Jan/38] |
1Feb/38 |
WEAF, 11:00PM |
15 minutes with news, Tuesday [NY Times,
1Feb/38] |
2Feb/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes with news, Wednesday [NY Times,
2Feb/38] |
4Feb/38 |
WEAF, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 4Feb/38] |
8Feb/38 |
WEAF, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 8Feb/38] |
9Feb/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes with news, Wednesday [NY Times,
9Feb/38] |
15Feb/38 |
WEAF, 11:00PM-part of this broadcast
exists in the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, Lincoln
Center Plaza, NYC and songs include: |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times,
15Feb/38] |
-I'm Feelin' Like A Million |
A great tune for this group |
-Tune In On My Heart
(from the 1929 Broadway musical Remote Control, lyrics and
music by Buddy Valantine and Gene Johnston)
|
This song is the earliest known song sung
by the Ink Spots in their classic ballad style with guitar introduction,
Bill Kenny high tenor and Hoppy Jones talking chorus. Unfortunately, only
about 1/2 of this song is on the partial broadcast. |
16Feb/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes with news, Wednesday [NY Times,
16Feb/38] |
23Feb/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 16Feb/38] |
1Mar/38 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
I5 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 1Mar/38] |
2Mar/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 2Mar/38] |
8Mar/38 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
I5 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 8Mar/38] |
9Mar/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 9Mar/38] |
11-12Mar/38 |
Levaggi's, Boston |
The Ink Spots were so popular that they are
coming back in April [Chicago Defender, 26Mar/38] |
15Mar/38 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
I5 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 15Mar/38] |
16Mar/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 16Mar/38] |
22Mar/38 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
I5 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 22Mar/38] |
29Mar/38 |
WEAF, 11:00PM |
15 minutes with news, Tuesday [NY Times,
29Mar/38] |
25Mar/38 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-Oh! Red |
|
-That Cat Is High |
|
2Apr/38 |
WJZ, 8:45PM |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 2Apr/38] |
5Apr/38 |
WJZ, 11:15PM |
I5 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 5Apr/38] |
12Apr/38 |
WJZ, 11:15PM |
I5 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 12Apr/38] |
17-29 ?Apr/38 |
Levaggi's Grill Room, Boston |
Chick Webb w/Ella Fitzgerald are performing
upstairs at this time. [Pittsburgh Courier, 9 Apr/38]. "Four Ink
Spots move into Levaggi's Boston, April 17…" [Billboard, 26Mar/38] |
19May/38 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 19May/38] |
19May/38 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-I Wish You the Best of Everything |
|
-When the Sun Goes Down |
|
20-26May/38 |
Apollo, NYC, songs included: |
IS & Don Redman & His Swing Band w/
Louise McCarroll star. Also Chuck & Chuckles, Three Lunatrix, Wilkins
& James, 16 Dancing Beauties. Movie: The Crime of Dr. Hallett. [New
York Amsterdam News, 21May/38-have just arrived from Boston] |
-Old Man Mose |
3 encores |
26May/38 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 26May/38] |
2Jun/38 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 2Jun/38] |
9Jun/38 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 9Jun/38] |
16Jun/38 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 16Jun/38] |
23Jun/38 |
WEAF, 11:15PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 23Jun/38] |
14Jul/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 14Jul/38] |
21Jul/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 21Jul/38] |
28Jul/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 28Jul/38] |
2Aug/37 |
WJZ, 7:30PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 2Aug/38] |
4Aug/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 4Aug/38] |
9Aug/38 |
WJZ, 7:30PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 9Aug/38] |
11Aug/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 11Aug/38] |
12Aug/38 |
WJZ, 10:30PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 12Aug/38] |
16Aug/38 |
WJZ, 7:30PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 16Aug/38] |
18Aug/38 |
Radio, NBC Blue Network, WJZ, New York -songs: |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 18Aug/38].
You can hear this broadcast in the Recorded Sound Reference Center, Library
of Congress [RWA 2310 A4] |
-Theme, refrain from Ellington's Black &
Tan Fantasy |
|
-I'm Feelin' Like A Million |
Group, Deek comments and Hoppy comments back-great.
A more polished and slightly different version than the 15Feb/38 broadcast. |
-So Little Time (and So Much to
Do) |
Classic ballad style with guitar
intro, Bill Kenny high tenor and Hoppy Jones talking chorus. |
-A Tisket-A-Tasket |
Old style jump tune |
-Spring Is Here |
From film "I Married An Angel"-ballad but
not classic style. Hoppy does introduction singing solo on this song. |
-Flat Foot Floogie |
Old style |
19Aug/38 |
WJZ, 10:30PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 19Aug/38] |
23Aug/38 |
WJZ, 7:30PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 23Aug/38] |
25Aug/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 25Aug/38] |
26Aug/38 |
WJZ, 10:30PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 26Aug/38] |
31Aug/38 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-Pork Chops ‘N Gravy |
|
-Brown Gal |
|
1Sep/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 1Sep/38] |
2Sep/38 |
WJZ, 10:30PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 2Sep/38] |
8Sep/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes with news, Thursday [NY Times,
8Sep/38] |
9Sep/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 9Sep/38] |
15Sep/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 15Sep/38] |
16Sep/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 16Sep/38] |
22Sep/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 22Sep/38] |
23Sep/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 23Sep/38] |
9-30Oct/38 |
Crimson Room, Hotel Bennett, Binghamton, NY |
Billboard article [29Oct/38] says IS
broadcast over WNBF, Binghamton, every day but our search reveals only
4 broadcasts listed in local newspapers (see below). [Binghamton
Press, 7Oct/38] |
18Oct/38 |
Radio, WNBF, Binghamton, 15 min., Tues., 5:45PM |
[Binghamton Press, Monday, 17Oct/38,
radio listings] |
24Oct/38 |
Radio, WNBF, Binghamton, 15 min., Tues., 5:45PM |
[Binghamton Press, Monday, 23Oct/38,
radio listings ] |
28Oct/38 |
Radio, WNBF, Binghamton, 15 min., Fri., 5:45PM |
[Binghamton Press, Thursday, 27Oct/38,
radio listings ] |
29Sep/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Thursday [NY Times, 29Sep/38] |
30Sep/38 |
WJZ, 11:00PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 30Sep/38] |
1Nov/38 |
Radio, WNBF, Binghamton, 15 min., Tues., 5:45PM |
[Binghamton Press, Monday, 31Oct/38,
radio listings ] |
24Nov-1Dec/38 |
Nixon Grand, Phil., PA |
America's largest colored show house reopens
on Thanksgiving Day. Show stars Ethel Waters supported by the Four IS
"who are making their first Philadelphia appearance in over two years".
Also Jesse Stone & His Swing Orch., 16 sun-tanned dancing beauties,
Swan & Lee comedy stars and a host of others. Movie: Swing That Cheer.
[The Phil. Record, 23Nov/38 & The Pittsburgh Courier,
26Nov/38] |
2-8Dec/38 |
Apollo, NYC |
Tiny Bradshaw & His Band and 4 IS headline
w/Jean Starr, Pigmeat, Givens & Karol, 16 Dancing Girls. Movie: Personal
Secretary. [New York Amsterdam News, 3Dec/38] |
10Dec/38 |
WJZ, 11:45PM |
15 minutes, Saturday [NY Times, 10
Dec/38] |
16Dec/38 |
Apollo, NYC, 2nd Annual Amsterdam
News Monster Midnight Benefit Show |
W/Cab Calloway & His Band, Nicholas Bros.,
Berry Bros., Artie Shaw & Band, Gladys Palmer from Band Box, Sister
Tharpe – Holy Roller Singer of the Cotton Club, Fats Waller, Don Redman,
4Ink Spots, Musa Williams, Chilton & Thomas, Hazel Scott, Mable Scott,
W. C. Handy, and many others. Prices 55 cents, $1 and $1.50. |
25-29Dec/38 |
Howard, Washington, DC |
IS are second-billed to Erskine Hawkins &
His Orch. Also Holmes and Henry (the sepia Bergen and McCarthy), Derby
Wilson, John Mason, Johnny Vigal, the Addison Carey Dancing Darlings.
Movie: Hard To Get. [Afro-American, 24Dec/38] |
30Dec/38-5Jan/39 |
Hippodrome, Balt., MD |
[Variety, 16Nov/38] |
12Jan/39 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-If I Didn't Care
Per Whitburn this song reached 2nd place on the pop charts and was
listed for 9 weeks.
|
The song that made them famous. The IS were
paid $37.50. When sales took off and Decca had to destroy the original
contract when sales reached 200,000, the IS were paid an additional $3,750.
[Swing, Jan/41] |
-Just For A Thrill |
|
-Knock Kneed Sal (On the Mourner's Bench) |
One story suggests that If I Didn't Care
was a second side for this song but this one is the "B" side. |
15Jan/39 |
Renaissance Casino, 13th St & 7th Ave,
NYC. 12th Annual Gus Kiddie Club Entertainment & Dance. |
W/Cab Calloway, Erskine Hawkins, Nicholas
Bros., Buck & Bubbles, Tiny Bradshaw, Sister Agnes Tharpe, Roy Edridge
and others. [New York Age, 31Dec/38] |
19-22Jan/39 |
Orpheum, Memphis, TN |
W/Floyd Ray & His California Orch.; Danny
& Eddie; Ivy, Vern & Von; Joe Alexander; Johnny Alston. Movie:
Federal Man Hunt. [Commercial Appeal, Memphis, 19, 20 &21Jan/39] |
26Jan-Feb?/39 |
Cocoanut Grove, Park Central Hotel, NYC. Chick
Webb & Ella Fitzgerald had major contract for 4 weeks. In the Article
announcing Webb signing, Ink Spots are named with Derby Wilson and a few
other acts as "alternates." One review on Feb. 18th said, "Aside
from Webb and his outfit, Ella Fitzgerald heads an all entertaining colored
revue which features the Four Ink Spots, Derby Wilson and a musical quintet."
[Pittsburgh Courier] Ink Spots songs: |
"First all-colored entertainment" featuring
Chick Webb, Ella Fitzgerald & Band and, as added features, the Ink
Spots and Bardou Ali. [Variety, 1Feb/39]. "The aggregation has
been booked for a four weeks run at the hotel after which it will continue
its country wide theatrical and dance tour." [The Pittsburgh Courier,
4Feb/39] |
-Timber** |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Who** |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Beautiful Baby** |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Thanks for Everything** |
No known version of this song by IS |
19-25Mar/39 |
Royal, Balt., MD |
4 Ink Spots W/Flash & Lovey, Slim &
Eddie, Pigmeat, Jimmie Baskette, 12 Fast Stepping Queens [Baltimore
Afro-American, 18Feb/39] (Thanks to Austin Casey for finding and providing
proof of this performance to us.) |
30Mar-5Apr/39 |
Loew's State, NYC |
Tony Galento & manager Joe Jacobs, Milton
Frome, Lew Parker, Bea Saxon, Bryant Raines & Young, Erskine Hawkins
& His Orch., with the Ink Spots and Ida James. Movie: Honolulu. "The
Ink Spots, vocalizing with the Hawkins band, drew the best reception of
the evening." [Billboard, 8Apr/39] |
9-16May/39 |
Apollo, NYC-songs: |
W/Claude Hopkins Orch. featuring Beverly White,
Bobby & Patsy, Pigmeat & Hamtree, Vivian Harris, Geo. Wiltshire,
Jesse James, Helena Smith, 16 Harperettes. IS with Bob Benson. Movie:
Inside Story. [Variety, 10May/39] |
-Jeepers Creepers** |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Pork Chops & Gravy |
|
-If I Didn't Care |
|
-Who** |
No known version of this song by IS |
17May/39 |
Recording date-song: |
|
|
-Its Funny To Everyone But Me |
|
28May-3Jun/39 |
Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
Booked for 2 weeks with options for up to
14 weeks at $250. Moe Gale trying to get them released due to demand following
popularity of "If I Didn't Care". Paid unknown amount and agreed to make
up the week to free them for Hippodrome appearance beginning of July[Variety,
5July/39] First week w/Jackie Gleason, Una Cooper, Manny Jimmy, Vince
& Anita, Msle. Adra, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 31May/39] |
4Jun/39 |
Lebzelter's Grove, near Clay, PA, afternoon
& evening Sunday shows. |
W/the Green Shay's, Variety Girl Revue and
Riley Lausch's Novelty Serenaders. [Reading Times, 2Jun/39] |
5-10Jun/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Bob Carney, Melba, Carney Twins, Joan Davis,
Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 7Jun/39] |
11-17Jun/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Bob Carney, Melba, Elaine Jordan, Estelle
Sloan, Jean & Robertt, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 14Jun/39] |
18-24Jun/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Bor Carney, Melba, Elaine Jordan, Carroll
Sisters, Edith Delaney, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 21Jun/39] |
25Jun/39 |
Lebzelter's Grove, near Clay, PA, 2 to 6 afternoon
& 7 to 11 evening Sunday shows. |
[Reading Times, 24Jun/39] |
26-29Jun/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Bob Carney, Melba, Elaine Jordan, McDonald
& Ross, Joan Davis, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 28Jun/39] |
30Jun-6Jul/39 |
Hippodrome, Balt., MD-songs: |
W/Harry James Orch. w/Jack Palmer, Connie
Haines & Frank Sinatra; Ruthie Barnes; Mack, Wilkie & Dare. Movie:
Bridal Suite. [Balt. News-Post, 29Jun/39 & Variety,
5Jul/39] |
-What Are You Going To Do** |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Old Man Mose |
|
-Your Feet's Too Big |
|
-If I Didn't Care |
|
-Who** |
No known version of this song by IS |
7-15Jul/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/ ? |
12July/39 |
Radio - WFIL, Phil., NBC, 6:30PM. With Bob
Benson, songs: |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 12Jul/39] |
-No Wonder |
|
- Stairway to the Stars |
|
-Pork Chops 'N Gravy |
|
-It's Funny to Everyone But Me |
|
-Tiger Rag |
|
16Jul/39 |
Lebzelter's Grove, near Clay, PA, afternoon
& evening Sunday shows. |
[Lebanon Daily News, 7Jul/39] |
17-22Jul/39 |
Steel Pier, Atlantic City, NJ, vaudeville
show, 3 bands for dancing including Sammy Kaye & Orch. |
W/Bob Hope, Gracella Dancers with the Panther
Lady, Jay & Lou Seiler, Bill Ames & others. Movie: Unexpected
Father. [Philadelphia Inquirer, 16Jul/39] |
18Jul/39 |
WEAF, 6:00PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 18Jul/39] |
19Jul/39 |
WJZ, 6:00PM |
15 minutes with news [NY Times, 19Jul/39] |
20Jul/39 |
Cootie's Ball, Ringing Rocks Park, Pottstown,
PA, Dancing 9 to 1:00, Floor Show with 15 Acts |
[The Mercury, 20Jul/39] |
23-29Jul/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
|
25Jul/39 |
WJZ, 6:25PM |
20 minutes with organ, Tuesday [NY Times,
25Jul/39] |
26Jul/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 26Jul/39] |
30Jul-5Aug/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Roy Sedley, Dorothy Henry, Sharon Harvey,
Gaye Dixon, Corday & Triano, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 26Jul/39] |
1Aug/39 |
WJZ, 6:25PM |
20 minutes with organ, Tuesday [NY Times,
1Aug/39] |
2Aug/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 2Aug/39] |
3Aug/39 |
Budweiser Tavern, Thursday Afternoon Jam Sessions,
Phil, PA |
Article indicates they will be weekly guests
for the remander of their stay at the Little Rathskeller[Philadelphia
Independent, Sunday, 6Aug/39] |
6Aug/39 |
Lebzelter's Grove, near Clay, PA, afternoon
& evening Sunday shows. |
[Reading Times, 4Aug/39] |
7-12Aug/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Dorothy Henry, Sharon Harvey, Gaye Dixon,
Jackson & Reenes, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 2Aug/39] |
8Aug/39 |
WJZ, 6:15PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 8Aug/39] |
9Aug/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 9Aug/39] |
11-12Aug/39 |
Shea's Buffalo, Buffalo, NY |
[Variety, 12Jul/39] |
13Aug/39 |
Lebzelter's Grove, near Clay, PA, 4, 8 &
10:30 Sunday shows, admission 25 cents. |
W/Jack Richie and His Texas Rhythm Rangers,
Landis-the Escape artist and an Old Time German Little Band. [Lebanon
Daily News, 11Aug/39] |
14-19Aug/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Dorothy Henry, Sharon Harvey, Gaye Dixon,
Al Schenk, Lane & Caroll, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 9Aug/39] |
15Aug/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 15Aug/39] |
16Aug/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 16Aug/39] |
17Aug/39 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-You Bring Me Down
Per Whitburn this song reached 14th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 2 weeks.
|
|
-I don't Want Sympathy, I Want Love |
|
-Address Unknown
Per Whitburn this song reached 1st place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 9 weeks. It was the first Ink Spots record to make
first place on the pop charts.
|
|
-Coquette |
|
20-26Aug/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Dorothy Henry, Vince & Anita, Babe Moffett,
Gaye Dixon, Al Schenk, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 16Aug/39] |
22Aug/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 22Aug/39] |
23Aug/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 23Aug/39] |
25-31Aug/39 |
hippodrome, Balt., MD |
W/Cliff Nazarro, Sibyl Bowan, Johnny Barnes,
Buster Shaver, Olive & George, 20 Baltimore Rockettes. Movie: The
Saint In London. [Baltimore Sun, 25Aug/39] |
29Aug/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 29Aug/39] |
30Aug/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 30Aug/39] |
Aug-Sep/39 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-Memories of You |
rejected |
-Puttin' and Takin' |
rejected |
3Sep/39 |
Lebzeiter's Grove, near Clay, PA, 6th and
final appearance, Sunday afternoon & evening shows |
W/the Sunshine Girl Revue, the Three White
Flashes, Dick Bowman's Melodiers. [Reading Times, 2Sep/39] |
4-10Sep/39 |
Steel Pier, Atlantic City, NJ |
W/Stump & Stumpy, Lane Bros., Roy Smeck.
[Variety, 30Aug/39] |
5Sep/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 5Sep/39] |
6Sep/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 6Sep/39] |
11-16Sep/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Dorothy Henry, McDonald & Ross, Wood
& Whalen, Ann Page, Sybil Roth, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety,
6Sep/39] |
12Sep/39 |
WEAF, 6:00PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 12Sep/39] |
13Sep/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 13Sep/39] |
17-19Sep/39? |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Dorothy Henry, Winton & Diana, Wood
& Whalen, Ann Page, Vera Area, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety,
13Sep/39] |
18Sep/39 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-My Prayer
Per Whitburn this song reached 3rd place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 12 weeks.
|
|
-Give Her My Love |
|
19Sep/39 |
Vim store in NYC autographing records |
[Variety, 13Sep/39] |
20Sep/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 20Sep/39] |
20Sep-10Oct/39 |
Paramount, NYC-songs:
|
Featuring Glenn Miller &
His Orch. w/ Marion Hutton, Ray Eberle. Extra Added Attraction The Ink
Spots. Also, The Newtons, Tiny, Ann & Tony Small. Movie: Honeymoon
in Bali. [New York Times, 19Sep/39]. Paramount ad of 10Oct/39
states 137,000 fans 1st week and 134,000 more fans 2nd
week [New York Times]. Miller had trouble closing show because
the Ink Spots "were so talented that even Miller had to give way
to them show after show." [The Pittsburgh Courier, 14Oct/39]. Grossed
$59,500, $53,000 and $40,000 for 3 weeks. [Variety, 27Sep&4Oct/39] |
-Jeepers Creepers** |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Your Feet's Too Big |
|
-If I Didn't Care |
|
-Who** |
No known version of this song by IS |
26Sep/39 |
WEAF, 6:00PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 26Sep/39] |
27Sep/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 27Sep/39] |
3Oct/39 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-Memories of You
Per Whitburn this song reached 29th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 1 week.
|
|
-Puttin' and Takin' |
|
4Oct/39 |
WJZ, 6:30PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 4Oct/39] |
6Oct/39
|
Recording date-songs: |
|
-Thoughtless |
|
-I'm Through |
|
-What Can I Do? |
|
11Oct/39 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-I'm Getting Sentimental Over You
Per Whitburn this song reached 26th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 1 week.
|
|
-Bless You
Per Whitburn this song reached 15th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 1 week. This song was a huge hit in England.
|
|
12-16Oct/39 |
State, Hartford, CN-songs: |
W/Sammy Kaye Orch., Tommy Ryan, Clyde Burke,
Jimmy Brown, Three Barons, Bob Dupont, Spencer & Foreman, Sam Kaplan,
Charlie Wilson. Movie: Calling All Marines. [Variety, 11Oct/39
& Hartford Times, 11Oct/39] |
-Jeepers Creepers |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Your Feet's Too Big |
|
-If I Didn't Care |
|
-Address Unknown |
|
19-25Oct/39 |
Royal, Balt., MD |
[Afro-American, 21Oct/39] |
Oct/39 |
Earle, Washington? |
["With the Bands", The Afro-American,
16Sep/39 and "Band Routes", Downbeat, 15Oct/39; Variety,
6Sep/39] |
27-28 & 30-31Oct-2Nov/39 |
Earle, Phil, PA-songs: |
[Variety, 25Oct/39] W/Jimmy Lunceford
& Orch., Earl & Francis, Dan Grissom, Willie Smith, Jimmy Young,
Joe Thomas - did a record week grossing $21,000. Movie: Kid Nightingale.
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 25Nov/39 & The Evening Bulletin,
27Oct/39.] |
-If I Didn't Care |
|
-Your Feet's Too Big |
|
-Jeeper Creepers |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Address Unknown |
|
-Who |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Just For A Thrill |
|
29Oct/39 |
Stanley, Camden, NJ |
W/Jimmy Lunceford & Orch, All-Star Show.
Movie: Beau Geste. [Philadelphia Inquirer, 29Oct/39] |
27Oct-2Nov/39 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
Ink Spots double while at Earle doing 5 shows
there (6 shows Saturday) and a nightly midnight show here. [Variety,
1Nov/39] |
Early Nov/39 |
Ink Spots give surprise party for Moe Gale
at the Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
Party to celebrate IS fifth anniversary with
Gale. [The Afro-American, 11Nov/39] |
3-9Nov/39 |
Paramount, Springfield, MA-songs: |
W/Henry Armetta, Milt Britton & Orch.,
Katherine Harris. Movie: Winner Take All. "…show played to near capacity
audiences during its entire run." [Billboard, 18Nov/39 & Springfield
Daily Republican, 4Nov/39] |
|
-Jeepers Creepers |
No known version of this song by IS |
|
-Address Unknown |
|
|
-Just For A Thrill |
|
|
-Your Feet's Too Big |
|
10-16Nov/39 |
Shea's Buffalo, Buffalo, NY |
W/Ken Sisson & Orch. with Gertrude Lutzi,
James Foster and the 4 Buffalonians. Movie: Elizabeth and Essex. Show
grossed $13,400. [Billboard, 25Nov/39] |
17-22Nov/39 |
Chicago, Chicago, IL |
W/Ted Weems & Orch, Perry Como, Elmo Tanner,
Marvell Maxwell, Red Ingle, Ormand Downes, Paul Winchell. Movie: Rulers
of the Sea. [Chicago Tribune, 17Nov/39] |
24-30Nov/39 |
Stanley, Pittsburgh, PA-7 songs included: |
W/Shep Fields & His Orch., Wynn, Brach
& Ames, Claire Nunn, Hal Derwin, Bob Dupont, Jerry Stewart. Movie:
Nurse Edith Cavell. Article discusses fact that Fields requested IS not
to sing "My Prayer" which was a featured Fields number in spite of fans
yelling for the Spot's version. [The Pittsburgh Courier, 2 Dec/39]
Nifty $24,000. [Variety, 29Nov/39] |
-If I didn't Care |
|
1-7Dec/39 |
Palace, Cleveland, OH-songs included: |
W/ Five Herzogs, Steve Evans, Deval, Merle
& Dee, France Malloy, Bert Wheeler. Movie" Barricade - celluloid weakie
chopping possibilities to good $14,500 at best.[Variety, 6Dec/39] |
-Jeepers Creepers |
No known version of this song by IS |
-If I Didn't Care |
|
12?Dec/39-?Feb/40 |
Famous Door, NYC |
w/Woody Herman. "…the famous Ink Spots opened an extended engagement
at the Famous Door on West 52nd street last week, co-starring
with Woody Herman and his ofay band." [The Pittsburgh Courier,
23 Dec/39] IS Paramount appearance from 17-30Jan/40 acknowledges IS
appear "courtesy of Famous Door". [New York Times, 17Jan/40]
Although they are performing at two theatres [Apollo and
Paramount], the Inkspots are also appearing nightly at the Famous
Door.
This triple feat has enabled them to set a precedent in the entertainment
world.
After the termination of the scheduled appearance of the quartet at
the Famous Door, they were held over indefinitely. [Philadelphia
Independent, Sunday, 4Feb/40]
|
26Dec/39 |
WABC radio, 9:30PM |
30 minutes, Tuesday, Bob Crosby Orch., Jimmy
Mercer, Helen Ward, Ink Spots [NY Times, 26Dec/39] |
31Dec/39 |
Radio-NBC, Curtain Calls of 1939-songs: |
1:30 to 4:00PM with Glenn Miller,
Carmen Miranda, Eleanor Roosevelt + many more. LC RWA 3239 B4 |
-Yes Suh! |
-If I Didn't Care |
17Jan-6Feb/40 |
Paramount, NYC-songs: |
First 2 weeks IS are "extra added attraction"
w/Bob Chester & His Orch., Roy Davis, Gracie MacDonald, Comedian Bert
Wheeler assisted by Hank Ladd, Dolores O'Neill, Al Stewart.
IS held over for 3rd week w/Enoch Light & Orch. featuring
Peggy Mann, Bert Wheeler, Gracie MacDonald, Roy Davis. Movie: Remember
the Night. [New York Times, 17 & 31Jan, 5Feb/40]
|
-Undecided** |
No known version of this song by IS |
-My Prayer |
|
-Your Feet's Too Big |
|
-Honeysuckle Rose** |
No known version of this song by IS |
-If I Didn't Care |
|
2-8Feb/40 |
Apollo, NYC-songs: |
IS double at Apollo and Paramount [actually
TRIPLE since they were also appearing nightly at the Famous Door having
been held over given their successful appearance there] from 2-6Feb/40
travelling in an ambulance 4x a day between Times Square and 125th
Street. [Variety, 7Feb/40]. W/Savoy Sultans Al Cooper's Jump Band,
Foster & Batie, Mae Diggs, Baby Hines, The Clarence Robinson Girls.
Movie: Charlie Chan in "City of Darkness". [New York Amsterdam News,
3Feb/40] |
-Undecided** |
No known version of this song by IS |
-My Prayer |
|
-Just for a Thrill |
|
-If I Didn't Care |
|
9-15Feb/40 |
Howard, Washington, DC |
W/Teddy Hill and his Rhythmeers, Peg Leg Bates
& a gigantic cast of 50. Movie: Private Detective. |
13Feb/40 |
5th Regiment Armory, Baltimore,
MD, Chick Webb Memorial Benefit show, Monday 12 Feb/40-songs: |
Afro-American article on Chick Webb
Memorial, Monday, 12Feb/40, states IS were late due to performing their
current show at the Howard. [17Feb/40] IS were anxiously awaited. Joe
Louis, who was trying to catch the 1:57AM train back to New York was leaving
as the IS arrived. He came back, announced he liked them and the way they
did Address Unknown and stayed for all 3 songs. Thus IS performed on 13Feb.
Other performers included Joe Louis, Ella Fitzgerald, Teddy Hill, Peg-Leg
Bates, Mercer Ellington, the Nickolas Bros., Slim & Eddie, Willie
Bryant, Bardou Ali, Jakie Mabley, Rodney Sturgis, Doris Rheubottom, the
National Vocal Symphony, Hughie Wilford, Freddie Thompson, Pedro &
Georgia, Bert & Bob, George Williams, others. 7500 to 9000 paid $1.15
each. |
-Undecided** |
No known version of this song by IS |
-If I Didn't Care |
|
-Address Unknown |
|
Feb/40 |
Radio, Hobby Lobby program, NY |
Afro-American article states IS on
show and say they were just 4 boys pushing brooms (!!??) but they took
their idea and If I Didn't Care to fame. [24Feb/40] |
16?Feb-?Mar/40 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Una Cooper, Marian Joyce, Helen Chuckles,
Vee Amex Gis, Pat Shevlin Orch., Madelyn Wallace, Millie Jestrah.[Variety,
14, 21 & 28/40] |
26Feb/40 |
Fleisher Auditorium, Philadelphia, PA. Charity
show for Association of Business and Professional Women of Philadelphia
features the Four Ink Spots. Dancing 9 -1:00AM |
Floor Show-15 Acts. [Philadelphia Inquirer,
25Feb/40] |
4Mar/40 |
Vanity Fair Ballroom, Huntington, WV, Tickets
and tables on sale at door. Entire balcony reserved for white spectators.
See picture display in front of Gallaher Drug Store. |
First stop on one-nighter tour w/NBC Sunset
Royal Orch. led by Ace Harris & featuring Little Genevieve and Froshine
Stewart. Article indicates most of tour stops are being booked under a
$750 guarantee against 60% of the gate. [The Afro-American, 2Mar/40
& Variety, 21Feb/40; Herald Dispatch, 3Mar/40] |
5Mar/40 |
City Auditorium, Bluefield, WV, |
W/their famous band featuring Bluefield boy
"Bob" Benson at the piano. [Bluefield Daily Telegraph, 3Mar/40]
Played 2 dances for 3,000 of both races. [The Afro-American, 2Mar/40] |
6Mar/40 |
Palais Royal Ballroom, Norfolk, VA, 2 dances
at 8:30 & 12:30, 1-4 A.M. - Admission 85 cents. |
W/their NBC Sunset Royal Orch. [The Journal
& Guide, Norfolk, 2Mar/40] More than 12,000 attend in WV &
VA per Pittsburgh Courier [16Mar/40] |
7Mar/40 |
Armory, Charlotte, NC, Colored Dance, 9:30
to 1:30, Adm. $1, White Spectators, 65 cents |
W/their NBC Orch. [The Charlotte Observer,
7Mar/40] |
8Mar/40 |
Armory, Durham, NC, white spectators |
W/their NBC Orch.[The Durham Sun, 4Mar/40] |
9Mar/40 |
Auditorium, Charleston, SC |
[The Afro-American, 2Mar/40] |
11Mar/40 |
Columbia Township Auditorium, Columbia, SC |
W/their NBC Orch. White spectators 75 cents.
Colored Advance Tickets Sold Only at Green Leaf and Thomas Drug Store.
[The State, Columbia, 10Mar/40] |
12Mar/40 |
Auditorium, Macon, GA, concert & dance. |
W/Sunset Royals Orch. featuring Little Genevieve
and Froshine Stewart. [The Macon Telegraph & News, 10Mar/40] |
13Mar/40 |
Auditorium, Atlanta GA |
[The Afro-American, 2Mar/40] |
14Mar/40 |
Winter Haven, Florenceville, FL |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 9Mar/40] |
15Mar/40 |
"DANCE, EVERYONE INVITED," Bethune-Cookman
College, "9P.M. 'till ?," Spectators 75 cents, Dancers $1.15,
Daytona Beach, FL |
[Daytona Beach Evening News, 14Mar/40]] |
16Mar/40 |
Club Brownie, Ft. Lauderdale, FL |
W/their NBC Orch. For whites [The Pittsburgh
Courier, 9Mar/40 & Miami Herald, 15Mar/40] |
17Mar/40 |
Tampa, FL |
Birthplace of Little Genevieve. [The Pittsburgh
Courier, 9Mar/40] |
18Mar/40 |
Rockland Palace, Miami, FL |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 9Mar/40] |
19Mar/40 |
West Palm Beach, FL |
Home of the Sunset Royals Band. [The Pittsburgh
Courier, 9Mar/40] |
20Mar/40 |
New York Club, Jacksonville, FL |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 9Mar/40] |
21Mar/40 |
Manhatten Casino, St. Petersburg, FL-songs: |
W/their NBC Orch. directed by Little Genevieve.
Capacity house. Clad in red formal coats and white trousers. [The Saint
Peterburgh Times, 10,17&24Mar/40] |
-If I Didn't Care |
|
-Knock Kneed Sal |
|
-I'm Through |
|
-Bless You |
|
-Address Unknown |
|
24Mar/40 |
Rhythm Club, New Orleans, LA |
W/NBC 14-piece Orch. [The Louisiana Weekly,
23Mar/40]. Trouble arises when another group performs in New Orleans one
week before IS first New Orleans appearance and advertises themselves
as the original group that made songs like If I Didn't Care famous! Moe
Gale brings suit against group and Joy's Strand Theatre. [The Pittsburgh
Courier, 30Mar/40] |
25 Mar/40 |
Odd Fellows Temple Building, Baton Rouge,
LA |
IS were also scheduled to do an unpaid radio
broadcast over WLBO but refused when they were not permitted the use of
a washroom at the radio station. [The Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/40] |
1Apr/40 |
Byrd High School, Shreveport, LA "Ink
Spots have come to Shreveport from Houston where their "Swing Concert"
was witnessed by 6,000 persons." |
W/their NBC Orch. of 14 pieces. [The Times,
Shreveport, LA, 31Mar/40] |
3?Apr/40 |
Little Rock, AK |
[IS arrive from Little Rock for Kansas City
performance on Thursday, 4 April per The Pittsburgh Courier, 13Apr/40] |
4Apr/40 |
Municipal Auditorium, Kansas City, MO-songs
included: |
[Kansas City Star, Wed.,
3Apr/40-adv't] In first KC appearance, IS set record for biggest dance
ever sponsored in KC – 5,000 attend. [The Pittsburgh Courier, 13Apr/40] |
-Your Feet's Too Big |
-If I Didn't Care |
5Apr/40 |
Municipal Auditorium, St. Louis, MO |
W/their NBC Orch. of 14 pieces. [St. Louis
Argus, 29Mar/40] |
8Apr/40 |
Church Park Auditorium, Memphis, TN(?), Concert
9 til 10, Reserverved seat for white patrons, Dance 10 to ? Sponsored
by the Chauffeur's Service Club. Advance tickets 85c. At Door $1.10. |
W/their NBC Orch. of 14 pieces. [Poster for 10Apr/40 performance.]
|
13Apr/40 |
Tomlinson Hall, Indianapolis, IN |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/40] |
15Apr/40 |
Cincinnati, OH |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/40] |
16Apr/40 |
New Brighton, PA |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/40] |
17Apr/40 |
New Kensington, PA |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/40] |
19Apr/40 |
Granada, South Bend, IN-songs: |
W/NBC Recording Orch. and Fast, Funny, Furious
Harlem Revue. Movie: Son of the Navy. [South Bend Tribune, 18Apr/40] |
-Take Me In Your Arms |
No known version of this song by IS |
-My Prayer |
|
-I'm Through |
|
-Tip-Pi-Tin |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Your Feet's Too Big |
|
20Apr/40 |
Miramar Ballroom, Dance, Gary, IN, presented
to the public by Club Dunbar-songs: |
W/Sunset Royal Orch. featuring Little Genevieve
and Froshine Stewart. "All dancing was discontinued when the Ink Spots
put in their appearance on the stage." [The Gary American, 26Apr/40] |
-If I Didn't Care |
|
-I'm Through |
|
-Give Her My Love |
|
-Honeysuckle Rose |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Its Funny To Everyone But Me |
|
-Old Man Mose |
|
21Apr/40 |
Savoy Ballroom, Chicago |
W/NBC Band. 60 cents before 8:30PM [Chicago
Defender, 13Apr/40] |
22Apr/40 |
Flint, MI |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/40] |
23Apr/40 |
Memorial Hall, Columbus, OH |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 20Apr/40] |
24Apr/40 |
East Market Gardens, Akron, OH |
The Joy Boy presents – 95 cents advance and
$1.10 at door. [The Cleveland Call and Post, 11Apr/40] |
25Apr/40 |
Toledo, OH |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 20Apr/40] |
26Apr/40 |
Memorial Hall, Dayton, OH, Dance and Concert,
presented by the Paramount Amusement Club, Hours 9 to 2 |
W/the Sunset Royal Orch. with Little Genevieve
and Froshine. [The Dayton Forum, 12Apr/40; Dayton Daily News,
26Apr/40] |
28Apr/40 |
Detroit, MI, Sunday |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 6Apr/40] |
3May/40 |
Armoury, Norwich University, Northfield,
VT, Informal Dancing Party until 2:00 A. M. Part of Junior Week activities.
Songs included: |
The Ink Spots with their NBC Orch.
conducted by Froshine. [Norwich Guidon, Vol. 26, 1May/40 & Vol. 27,
8May/40] |
|
My Prayer |
Sung twice by demand |
|
If I didn't Care |
|
|
Undecided
|
|
Pork Chops 'N Gravy
|
|
Ti Pi Tin |
|
Take Me In Your Arms |
|
I Surrender Dear |
?May/40 |
Memorial Auditorium, Chattanooga, TN |
6,000 persons of both races jammed an auditorium
to hear them. [Philadelphia Independent, 12 May/40] |
6May/40 |
Nuttings On the Charles, Waltham, MA |
W/Al Cooper and His Savoy Sultans, and Bobby
Byrne and His Famous Orch. [Fitchburg Sentinel, MA, 4May40] |
7May/40 |
Roseland State Ballroom, Boston, MA |
|
12May/40 |
Savoy Ballroom, NYC |
IS end current tour at Savoy on Mother's Day
per article in The Pittsburgh Courier and Sunset Royal Orch. continues
at Savoy. [18May/40] |
13May/40 |
Recording date-song: |
|
-When the Swallows Come Back to Capistrano
Per Whitburn this song reached 4th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 14 weeks.
|
|
?May or Jun/40 |
Abingdon, VA |
1 week added to tour before holiday [Philadelphia
Independent, 2June/40] |
?May or Jun/40 |
Bluefield, WV |
1 week added to tour before holiday [Philadelphia
Independent, 2June/40] |
?May or Jun/40 |
Beckley, WV |
1 week added to tour before holiday [Philadelphia
Independent, 2June/40] |
?May or Jun/40 |
Huntington, WV |
1 week added to tour before holiday [Philadelphia
Independent, 2June/40] |
?May or Jun/40 |
Charleston, Wv |
1 week added to tour before holiday [Philadelphia
Independent, 2June/40] |
?May or Jun/40 |
Roanoke, VA |
1 week added to tour before holiday [Philadelphia
Independent, 2June/40] |
14-27May/40 |
IS begin 2 week holiday following tour (??-see
next item including date) |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 18May/40] |
3Jun/40week |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/3 Paganos, Jerry & Turk, Renee Villon,
Joan Woods, Steve Murray, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 5Jun/40]
Four weeks and will broadcast every night over NBC and Mutual!? [The
Afro-American, 1Jun/40] |
Jun/40 |
Ace Harris replaces Bob Benson as pianist |
[Afro-American, 8Jun/40] |
9Jun/40 |
Mount Gretna Park, Park Opening, Mount Gretna
near Elizabethtown, PA., afternoon and evening shows. |
W/the Blue Mountain Revelers. [Elizabethtown
Chronicle, 7Jun/40] |
10&17Jun/40 weeks |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/3 Paganos, Jerry & Turk, Renee Villon,
Ann Howard, Midge Fellows, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 12&17Jun/40] |
11Jun/40 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-Whispering Grass (Don't Tell the Trees)
Per Whitburn this song reached 10th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 10 weeks.
|
|
-Maybe
Per Whitburn this song reached 2nd place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 17 weeks.
|
|
16Jun/40 |
Savoy Ballroom |
Hoppy is named "typical Harlem father" on
Father's Day. Gold diaper pin presented at Savoy Ballroom celebration.
[The Afro-American, 15Jun/40] |
18Jun/40 |
Recording date-song: |
|
-You're Breaking My Heart All Over Again |
Rejected |
19Jun/40 |
Radio, WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 19Jun/40] |
24Jun/40 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-Stop Pretending
Per Whitburn this song reached 16th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 2 weeks.
|
|
-I'm Only Human |
|
-You're Breaking My Heart All Over Again
Per Whitburn this song reached 17th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 1 week.
|
|
24Jun/40
week
|
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/3 Paganos, Jerry & Turk, Roberta Roberts,
Ann Howard, Grace Brian, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 26Jun/40] |
26Jun/40 |
Radio, WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 26Jun/40] |
1Jul/40week |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/3 Paganos, Jerry & Turk, Francis Leslie,
Ann Howard, Grace Brian, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 3Jul/40] |
3Jul/40 |
Radio, WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 3Jul/40] |
8Jul/40week |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/3 Paganos, Bert St. Clair, O'Connor Bros.,
Barbara Long, Ann Howard, Grace Brian, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety,
10Jul/40] |
9Jul/40 |
Radio, WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 9Jul/40] |
15Jul/40 week |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Ruth Clayton, Bert St. Clair, O'Connor Bros.,
Barbara Long, Ann Howard, Grace Brian, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety,
17Jul/40] |
16Jul/40 |
Recording date, NYC-songs: |
|
-We Three (My Echo, My Shadow and Me)
Per Whitburn this song was in 1st place on the pop music charts
for 3 weeks and was listed for 15 weeks.
|
|
-So Sorry |
Rejected |
-Puttin' and Takin" |
|
-Java Jive
Per Whitburn this song reached 15th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 3 weeks.
|
|
17Jul/40 |
NBC, WJZ, Blue Network, Phil, PA, songs included: |
Members of the Sound Your A musical quiz
show ... at which the world's leading conductors and vocalists entertain
Philadelphia, were rehearsing at a local radio station studio. Edwin Schloss,
music critic, Sylvan Levin, Bell Conductor, Robert Weede, Metropolitan
baritone and Conductor George Sebastian, among others were present.
In the next studio, separated by a control room ... the station was feeding
the NBC Blue Network with the Inkspots.
The rehersal for the very high-brow "Sound Your A" had been
suspended while the musical highbrows crowded around the window to watch
the home cookin' boys slap out their version of "Basin Street Blues."
[Philedelphia Independent, 21Jul/40] |
-Basin Street Blues |
|
Jul/40 |
Moe Gale, manager and booker, takes out $100,000
insurance on IS - $25,000 on each member. |
[The Pittsburgh Courier, 20Jul/40] |
22Jul/40 week |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Ruth Clayton, 4 Musical Notes, Bert St.
Clair, O'Connor Bros., Barbara Long, Ann Howard, Lewis Sisters, Victor
Hugo Orch. [Variety, 24Jul/40] |
23Jul/40 |
WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 23Jul/40] |
24Jul/40 |
WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 24Jul/40] |
28Jul& 5Aug/40 weeks |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Ruth Clayton, Fay & Wellinton, Ann Howard,
Ralph Lewis, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 30Jul&7Aug/40] |
2Aug/40 |
WJZ, 10:30PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 2Aug/40] |
6Aug/40 |
WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 6Aug/40] |
7Aug/40 |
WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 7Aug/40] |
8Aug/40 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-I'll Never Smile Again (Until I Smile At
You) |
|
-I Could Make You Care |
Rejected |
-Do I Worry?
Per Whitburn this song reached 8th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 6 weeks.
|
|
9Aug/40 |
WJZ, 10:30PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 9Aug/40] |
12Aug/40 week |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Irene Kaye, Stone & Barion, Dot King,
Ralph Lewis, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 14Aug/40] |
19-?Aug/40 |
Little Rathskeller, Phil., PA |
W/Sally Kieth, Billy & B Brunell, Dot
King, Ralph Lewis, Victor Hugo Orch. [Variety, 21Aug/40] |
20Aug/40 |
WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 20Aug/40] |
20Aug/40 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-I Could Make You Care |
|
-My Greatest Mistake
Per Whitburn this song reached 12th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 2 weeks.
|
|
-Don't Ever Break A Promise |
|
-Ring, Telephone, Ring |
Rejected |
21Aug/40 |
Recording date-song: |
|
-In the Doorway (Where We Used To Kiss Goodnight)** |
Rejected and never re-issued. No known version
of this song by IS. |
21Aug/40 |
Steps of the Treasury Building, Wall Street,
Annual Hearst Sale of Tickets for City Milk Fund |
50,000 brokers and workers attend performance |
21Aug/40 |
WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 21Aug/40] |
23Aug-15Oct/40 |
Blackhawk Restaurant, Chicago |
W/Dick Shelton & His Musical Mariners
with Gloria Gilbert, Don & Beverly. Playing in the evening and for
Sunday tea dancing - $1.50 dinner. [Chicago Tribune, 13Sep/40]Reported
to be, "… first time Negro talent has been used in this nationally famous
place." [New York Amsterdam News, 24Aug/40] |
27Aug/40 |
WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Tuesday [NY Times, 27Aug/40] |
28Aug/40 |
WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 28Aug/40] |
30Aug/40 |
WJZ, 10:30PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 9Aug/40] |
4Sep/40 |
WJZ, 10:15PM |
15 minutes, Wednesday [NY Times, 4Sep/40] |
13Sep/40 |
WJZ, 10:30PM |
15 minutes, Friday [NY Times, 13Sep/40] |
Sep/40 |
IS forced to cancel regular NBC radio broadcasts
due to classification as musicians by Chicago union (classified as vocalists
in NY). Cost of joining union and hiring standbys would exceed what radio
pays IS. |
[The Afro-American, 14Sep/40] |
Sep/40 |
IS double booked when Blackhawk takes up option
conflicting with other bookings at Chicago and 3 Paramount houses in Michigan
& NY. When IS forced to stay at Blackhawk in spite of offer by Gale
of $700 and a future 4 weeks, other theaters threaten suits. |
[The Afro-American, 28Sep/40} |
6Oct/40 |
Savoy, Chicago |
Doubled with Blackhawk [Billboard,
Supplement, 28Sep/40] |
18-24Oct/40 |
Buffalo, Buffalo, NY-songs: |
W/Glen Gray & the Casa Loma Band featuring
Pee Wee Hunt, Kenny Sargent, Billy Rauch, Clarence Hutchenrider and Murray
McEachern. Also, Lorraine & Rognan, Betty Bruce. Movie: Dulcy. [Billboard,
26Oct/40, Variety 23Oct/40] |
-Java Jive |
|
-We Three |
|
-Who* |
No known version of this song by IS |
-If I Didn't Care |
|
26Oct/40 |
Strand, Cumberland, MD, 25 cents
plus tax |
W/NBC Sunset Royal Orch. Movie:
Charlie Chan at the Wax Museum. [Cumberland Evening Post, 24Oct/40] |
27Oct/40 |
Night of the Stars, Apollo, Midnight Benefit |
W/Ethel Waters, Bill Robinson,Noble Sissle
& Orch., Benny Carter Orch., Louis Armstrong's Orch., Mills Bros.,
Fats Waller, Ada Brown, Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway and many others.
[New York Age, 19Oct/40] |
28Oct/40 |
Township Auditorium, Columbia, SC |
[The State, Columbia, 27Oct/40] |
29Oct/40 |
Charleston, SC |
[Chicago Defender, 19Oct/40] |
30Oct/40 |
City Auditorium, Atlanta, GA, 9:00PM-1:00AM,
"A special section has been reserved for white spectators" |
W/Sunset Royal Swing Band. [Atlanta Constitution,
30Oct/40, p. 8]. Prizes were awarded to best costumed couple attending
pre-Hallowe'en dance. |
31Oct/40 |
Birmingham, AL, "White spectators seats only" |
W/NBC Orch.[Birmingham News, 31Oct/40] |
1Nov/40 |
Church Park Auditorium, Memphis, TN |
[Chicago Defender, 19Oct/40] |
2Nov/40 |
Ashville, NC |
W/NBC Orch. [Pittsburgh Courier, pg.22, 9Nov/40] |
3Nov/40 |
K. of P. Hall. Nashville, TN, 9:30PM. |
W/NBC Orch?[The Tennessee, 3Nov/40] |
6Nov/40 |
Armory, Muncie, IN,Victory Dance. |
W/NBC Orch. |
8-14Nov/40 |
Regal, Chicago |
w/Stump & Stumpy, Whitey & Ed Ford,
Rubie Blakey, Tony Flamboro & His Regal Rhythm Boys. Movie: Rangers
of Fortune. [Chicago Tribune, 8Nov/40; Chicago Defender,
9Nov/40] |
?Nov/40 |
Lexington, KY |
Indianapolis Recorder reports capacity
crowds [16nov/40] |
?Nov/40 |
Nashville, KY |
Indianapolis Recorder reports capacity
crowds [16nov/40] |
15-21Nov/40 |
Orpheum, Omaha, NE-songs: |
W/Harry James Band with Dick Haymes and Vido
Musso; Dick, Don & Dinah; Rita & Ed Oehman. Movie: Moon Over Burma.
[Variety, 13Nov/40, Morning World Herald, Omaha, 16Nov/40
and Billboard, 23Nov/40] |
-Java Jive |
|
-We Three |
|
-Maybe |
|
-If I Didn't Care |
|
22-28Nov/40 |
Orpheum, Minn., MN |
W/Harry James Orch., Dick Haymes, Rita &
Ed Oehman, Dick, Don & Dinah, Gloria Jean. Movie: Little Bit of Heaven.
[Variety, 20Nov/40 & Minn. Star-Journal, 22Nov/40] |
-Jim, Jam, Jump* |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Java Jive |
|
-We Three |
|
-Who* |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Maybe |
|
-If I Didn't Care |
|
1Dec/40 |
Tour Cumberland, MA area |
Bus catches fire outside Cumberland. [Downbeat,
1Dec/40] |
3Dec/40 |
Ritz Theatre, Paramount 4 Star Road Show,
Newburgh, NY, prep for Paramount in NYC starting next day. |
W/ Red Skelton, Rosemary Lane, Ray Herbeck
& Orch. |
4-10Dec/40 |
Paramount, NYC-songs: |
W/ Red Skelton, Rosemary Lane, Ray Herbeck
& Orch., Darlene Walters. Movie: North West Mounted Police. Ink Spots
listed as "Extra". [NY Times, 4Dec/40 & Variety, 11Dec/40] |
-Java Jive |
|
-We Three |
|
-Maybe |
|
-Who* |
No known version of this song by IS |
-If I Didn't Care |
|
11-17 Dec/40 |
Paramount, NYC-songs: |
W/Henny Youngman, Rosemary Lane, Ray Herbeck
& Orch., Darlene Walters, Betty Benson. Movie: Moon Over Burma. [NY
Times, 11Dec/40] IS held over for a second week, all new songs. [NY
Times, 11Dec/40;The Pittsburgh Courier, 21Dec/40] |
|
-Java Jive |
|
|
-We Three |
|
|
-Maybe |
|
19Dec/40 |
Masonic Temple, Scranton, PA |
W/Their 16-piece Orch. [Wilkes-Barre Times
Leader, 18Dec/40] |
Dec/40 |
An article in Variety indicates planned
band bookings for the Ink Spots and their orchestra for Feb-Mar/41 before
the commitment to make "The Great American Broadcast" arose. |
Places scheduled are: Feb 18th-Harrison
Aud., Greensboro, NC; Feb 21st-City Aud., Savannah, GA; Feb
24th-Jacksonville, FL; Feb 25th-Bethune College,
Daytona Beach, FL; Feb 26th-West Palm Beach, FL; Feb 27th-Harlem
Square Club, Miami, FL; Feb 28th-St. Petersburg, FL; Mar 1st-Roosevelt
Hotel, Jacksonville, FL; Mar 4th-Aud., Macon, GA; Mar 5th-Atlanta,
GA; Mar 6th-Aud., Columbia, SC; Mar 21st-Dreamland,
Little Rock, AK; Mar 23rd-Dallas, TX; Mar 26th-Aud.,
Galveston, TX; Mar 27th-Aud., Houston, TX [18Dec/40] |
13Dec/40 |
Apollo, NYC, Ams. News Midnight Benefit Show |
Others include Duke Ellington & Band,
Count Basie & Band, Erskine Hawkins & Band, Ella Fitzgerald, John
Kirby, Eddie South, Teddy Wilson, Henry Red Allen, Zutty Singleton, Jack
Benny & Rochester, Golden Gate Quartet, the Calypso Singers, the Berry
Bros., Meade Lux Lewis, Al Ammons, Sister Tharpe, Maxine Sullivan, Ivy
Anderson, Hazel Scott, Ida Cox, Art Tatum, Billie Holiday, Jimmy Daniels,
Garland Wilson, Babe Matthews, Mitzi Mayfair, more. [New York Amsterdam
News, 7Dec/40] |
17Dec/40 |
Paramount lobby, movie premiere: Love Thy
Neighbor-live song by IS: |
Radio, Mutual Network, sustaining. |
Maybe |
|
23Dec/40 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-So Sorry
Per Whitburn this song reached 24th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 1 week.
|
|
-Ring, Telephone, Ring |
|
-You're Looking For Romance (and I'm Looking
For Love) |
|
-I Can't Stand Losing You |
Per Whitburn this song was in 1st place for
7 weeks in the Rhythm and Blues charts and was listed there for 16 weeks. |
-That's When Your Heartaches Begin |
|
-I'm Still Without A Sweetheart (‘Cause I'm Still In Love With You)
Per Whitburn this song reached 19th place on the pop music charts
and was listed for 2 weeks.
|
|
-Why Didn't You Tell Me |
|
-I Wish I Could Say the Same |
|
-I'd Climb the Highest Mountain |
Rejected |
-What Good Would It Do? |
Rejected |
30Dec/40 |
Recording date-songs: |
|
-I'd Climb the Highest Mountain |
|
-What Good Would It Do? |
|
31Dec/40-7Jan/41 |
Michigan, Detroit, MI., New Year's show +
week. Theater adds special schedule for final week end due to "...record
breaking business..." - five complete shows beginning at 11:30AM.
Songs: |
W/Rosmary Lane, Dean Murphy, MC, Lynn, Royce
& Vanya; Paul Remos & His Toy Boys; Allen & Kent, Phil Brestoff
& Michigan Band. Movie: Second Chorus [Detroit Free Press,
30Dec/40 & Variety, 8Jan/41] |
-Java Jive |
|
-We Three |
|
-Who* |
No known version of this song by IS |
-Maybe |
|
-If I Didn't Care |
|
31Dec/40 |
Palm-State, Detroit, double show for New Years
with Michigan Theatre |
Same midnight show as Michigan [Detroit
Free Press, 30Dec/40] |