Benny Goodman "King Porter Stomp" (Fletcher Henderson arranger) Victor 25090, 1935, Bunny Berigan

"King Porter Stomp" is one of the greatest compositions of the 20th century. There are many recorded versions. This one, probably the most popular and influential, was recorded in New York on July 1, 1935, and issued on Victor 25090.

It came at the start of the new swing era and is closely associated with the Big Band sound, standing out because of hot solos (the kind not found on, say, Glenn Miller discs).

The music was written around 1905 by Jelly Roll Morton (1885 - 1941) though it evolved considerably as it became a swing standard. This great pianist and composer recorded his "King Porter Stomp" in 1923 at the Star Piano Company in Richmond, Indiana.

With his title, Morton paid tribute to a piano-playing gentleman from Florida named Porter King.

With this song, Benny Goodman and his musicians famously rocked the Palomar Ballroom on August 21, 1935.

"King Porter Stomp" was performed by many bands in the 1920s. Fletcher Henderson's 1928 version is notable.

During the Depression, Henderson's band struggled, so the leader turned toward arranging.

He was hired by a young Benny Goodman to arrange "King Porter Stomp" for his touring big band.

A perfect song, perfect arrangement, brilliant performances by soloists--perfection all around!

After Benny Goodman's success with it, just about every big band attempted "King Porter Stomp"--look for recordings by Cab Calloway, Count Basie, Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey.

Duke Ellington did not cover it--a notable exception.

Sadly, Morton did not profit when his song enjoyed popularity during Morton's last years. He had sold the publishing rights to many of his works, including "King Porter Stomp."

Benny Goodman - clarinet

Bunny Berigan, Nate Kazebier, Ralph Muzzillo - trumpet

Red Ballard, Jack Lacey - trombone

Toots Mondello, Hymie Schertzer - alto sax

Arthur Rollini, Dick Clarck - tenor sax

Frank Foeba - piano

George Eps - guitar

Harry Goodman - bass

Gene Krupa - drums