Artie Shaw

USA, 1925–1954

American clarinetist and bandleader (1910–2004), one of the defining virtuosos of the Swing Era and Benny Goodman's great rival. His lush, orchestral hit 'Begin the Beguine' (1938) made him a superstar; a restless perfectionist, he walked away from music at the height of his fame.

MusicRoots documents 2 artists who influenced Artie Shaw and 0 artists Artie Shaw influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced Artie Shaw?

• Louis Armstrong — Shaw's love of jazz crystallised on hearing Louis Armstrong's Hot Five records in 1927 — Armstrong's melodic, swinging invention was foundational to his playing.
• Bix Beiderbecke — The lyrical cornet of Bix Beiderbecke (and his partner Frankie Trumbauer) was an early influence on Shaw's melodic, elegant improvising.