Lucky Millinder and His Orchestra (1946)

Lucky Millinder and His Orchestra (1946)
With: Lucky Millinder and His Orchestra, Annisteen Allen, Sam Taylor, Clarence Jackson.
This jazzy gem is an early example of a mainstream multiracial band led by the charismatic Lucky Millinder. Around the time of this production, Millinder had deliberately decided that it was time to integrate his band, which was extremely popular with African American audiences. The bandleader introduces three numbers that include tenor saxophonists Sam “The Man” Taylor, Clarence “Bull Moose” Jackson (also a singer), and Annisteen Allen. Blues vocalist Allen is presented as the “Hot Tamale” from close to the Mexican border (Champaign, Illinois, was her actual home); her rendition of the hit “I Want a Man” is a highlight.-Todd Wiener
Restoration funded by a grant from the GRAMMY Museum®. Restored by the UCLA Film & Television Archive from 16mm prints. Laboratory services by Roundabout Entertainment, Inc. Special thanks to the Library of Congress, Mark Cantor.
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