The Benson Orchestra of Chicago - Riverboat Shuffle (1925)

The Benson Orchestra was formed in 1920 by cellist and agent Edgar A. Benson. Though the group carried Benson's name it was originally under the direction of pianist Roy Bargy. Based at Chicago's Marigold Gardens, a notorious gangster hangout, the orchestra was considered one of the best bands in the city. They began recording for Victor in September of 1920. Using section arranging and solo instruments to play against a whole section in harmony, the band was very progressive for its era. Their recording of "Wabash Blues" sold over 750,000 copies in 1921. After a falling out with Benson in late 1921 Bargy left the group to form his own orchestra, taking many Benson members with him. Pianist Don Bestor was hired to replace him. Bestor's orchestra featured much of the same fine musicianship, including saxophonist Frankie Trumbauer. Two of the most jazz-oriented sides that the Benson Orchestra of Chicago recorded were "Copenhagen" and "Riverboat Shuffle", written by Hoagy Carmichael. The Orchestra recorded it a year after which it was originally written. By that time, Victor recordings had become electric, and the warmth of the Benson Orchestra is much more apparent. Don Bestor eventually left the group in 1925 to form an orchestra of his own, and Trumpeter Fred Hamm took over as leader. The group continued playing under various leaders for several more years, though starting with Hamm, the leaders recorded under their own name, sub-titled "A Benson Orchestra". To hear more great music such as this, just tune into our 24-hour Internet Radio Station by going to our website at: http://www.americansoundarchive.com & click on the "Listen Live Now" Icon. As always, thanks for watching and listening and please feel free to comment.