Cab Calloway: The Referee Man
Cab Calloway, born on December 18, 1907, was an American jazz bandleader, singer, and actor, whose career spanned over five decades. Known for his energetic performances and distinctive vocal style, Calloway was a pivotal figure in the swing era of jazz. One of his most famous songs, “Reefer Man,” became an anthem for the jazz age and a testament to his charisma and musical prowess.
Early Life and Career
Calloway was born in Baltimore, Maryland, to a musical family. His father was a church organist, and his mother was a singer. At a young age, Calloway was exposed to music and began to play the piano and trumpet. He attended Frederick Douglass High School, where he formed his first band, The Baltimore Orioles.
In the 1920s, Calloway moved to New York City, where he joined the Ben Pollack Orchestra. He quickly rose to fame as a trumpet player and vocalist, and in 1926, he formed his own band, The Cab Calloway Orchestra. The band became one of the most popular jazz orchestras of the 1930s, known for their high-energy performances and innovative arrangements.
The Referee Man
Calloway’s “Reefer Man” was released in 1931 and became an instant hit. The song, which features a catchy melody and humorous lyrics, tells the story of a man who is so obsessed with smoking marijuana that he becomes a referee in a boxing match. The song’s catchy rhythm and Calloway’s distinctive vocal style made it a favorite among jazz enthusiasts and the general public alike.
Here is a breakdown of the song’s lyrics:
| Verse 1 | Reefer man, reefer man, reefer man, reefer man |
|---|---|
| Verse 2 | He’s a reefer man, he’s a reefer man, he’s a reefer man, he’s a reefer man |
| Chorus | Reefer man, reefer man, reefer man, reefer man |
| Verse 3 | He’s a reefer man, he’s a reefer man, he’s a reefer man, he’s a reefer man |
| Chorus | Reefer man, reefer man, reefer man, reefer man |
“Reefer Man” was not just a hit song; it also had a significant impact on the jazz scene. The song’s catchy rhythm and humorous lyrics helped to popularize jazz music among a wider audience, and it became a symbol of the swing era.
Later Years and Legacy
As the swing era came to an end, Calloway continued to perform and record music. He also ventured into acting, appearing in several films and television shows. In the 1950s, he returned to the jazz scene with a new band, The Calloway Crescendos, which featured a younger generation of musicians.
Calloway’s influence on jazz music and popular culture cannot be overstated. He was a trailblazer in the music industry, breaking down racial barriers and paving the way for future generations of jazz musicians. His energetic performances, distinctive vocal style, and innovative arrangements have made him a legend in the world of jazz.
In 1994, Cab Calloway passed away at the age of 86. However, his legacy lives on through his music and the countless lives he touched. His contributions to jazz music and popular culture will always be remembered and celebrated.