Tommy Dorsey

USA, 1925–1956

'The Sentimental Gentleman of Swing' — bandleader and trombonist whose seamless legato phrasing became the model for Sinatra's breath control and long vocal lines.

MusicRoots documents 1 artist who influenced Tommy Dorsey and 1 artist Tommy Dorsey influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced Tommy Dorsey?

• Jack Teagarden — Dorsey's trombone style was, by his own account, heavily influenced by Jack Teagarden — the pioneer who freed the instrument from its tailgate role; Dorsey reputedly adjusted his playing to avoid direct comparison.

Which artists did Tommy Dorsey influence?

• Frank Sinatra — Sinatra learned his signature breath control and seamless legato phrasing from Tommy Dorsey's smooth trombone, in whose band he broke through in 1940.