Related Information for Baron Lee & The Blue Rhythm Band
This band was a "second line" band formed by Irving Mills (Duke Ellington's manager through the 1920's and 1930's) primarily as a replacement for Cab Callaway and the Duke when either or both were "on the road". At its high point, Red Allen, JC Higgenbotham, and Charlie Holmes were the soloists, coming from the Luis Russell band (aka Louis Armstrong's band) in 1934. In its last years, Charlie Shavers, Wilber de Paris, Tab Smith and Billy Kyle were members.The BRB recorded under several names - Barron Lee and Lucky Millinder being most prominent. It was, however, best known as Mills Blue Rhythm Band.Mills disbanded the band in 1937 or early 1938.... read more
