The opening hour of Blues Before Sunrise sets the tone for the entire program with a lively mix of swing, jazz, and early rhythm-and-blues recordings. These sounds come from a time when American popular music was evolving rapidly, when jazz bands ruled dance halls and the blues was steadily weaving itself into the fabric of swing and popular song. Hour One captures that energy, moving from hot band instrumentals to smooth vocal jazz and jumping rhythm sections.
The hour begins with the playful spirit of Al Stomp Russell and “Dig Mr. K-K-K.” Russell’s performance carries the loose, good-time feeling that defined much of the swing era, when bands focused on rhythm, humor, and irresistible dance grooves.
From there the spotlight turns to vibraphone master Lionel Hampton, one of the most energetic bandleaders in jazz history. Hampton’s recordings “The Pencil Broke,” “Don’t Let the Landlord Gyp You,” and the classic “The Hucklebuck” showcase his ability to combine jazz sophistication with infectious rhythm. “The Hucklebuck” in particular became a major rhythm-and-blues hit, helping push jazz toward the emerging R&B sound of the late 1940s.
Next comes the smooth sophistication of the King Cole Trio, led by the legendary pianist and vocalist Nat King Cole. Before he became a major pop star, Cole led one of the most influential small jazz groups of the era. “Hit That Jive Jack,” “Scotchin’ with the Soda,” and “Sweet Lorraine” demonstrate the trio’s effortless swing and clever arrangements. Cole’s relaxed voice and piano style helped define a more intimate form of jazz performance that influenced generations of singers.
The song “Sweet Lorraine” appears again in a classic performance from Chicago clarinet great Jimmie Noone. Noone was a major figure in early Chicago jazz and a mentor to many musicians who came through the city’s vibrant club scene during the 1920s and 30s.
The tempo picks up with the powerful tenor saxophone sound of Eddie ‘Lockjaw’ Davis. His recordings “There’s a Small Hotel,” “Tickle Toe,” and “Leapin’ on Lennox” deliver the kind of muscular jazz sax playing that energized bandstands and late-night jam sessions across the country.
Vocal jazz takes center stage next with the incomparable Ella Fitzgerald. Her recordings “Cry You Out of My Heart,” “A Kiss Goodnight,” “I Want to Learn About Love,” and “How High the Moon” remind listeners why Fitzgerald became one of the greatest singers in American music. Her voice combined technical brilliance with warmth and playfulness, making every song feel alive.
The mood shifts briefly toward gospel harmony with the rich voices of the Jubilaires performing “Let It Rain.” Gospel groups like the Jubilaires carried a strong influence on blues and rhythm-and-blues singers, bringing spiritual intensity and powerful vocal arrangements into popular music.
Instrumental boogie piano follows with the legendary duo Albert Ammons and Pete Johnson performing “Sixth Avenue Express.” Ammons and Johnson were pioneers of boogie-woogie piano, creating fast, rolling rhythms that would influence blues, jazz, and eventually rock and roll.
Entertainment and dance return with the dazzling performers Nicholas Brothers and their upbeat “Keep a Twinkle in Your Eye.” Known for their incredible tap dancing and stage charisma, the Nicholas Brothers brought energy and joy wherever they performed.
The hour closes with the soulful saxophone groove of Rusty Bryant performing “All Night Long,” a fitting title for a program designed to accompany listeners through the quiet hours before sunrise.
By the end of Hour One, the stage has been set. Swing, jazz, gospel, and early rhythm-and-blues have all taken their turn, creating the musical foundation that the rest of the program will continue to explore.
Playlist – Hour One
Dig Mr K-K-K – Al Stomp Russell
The Pencil Broke – Lionel Hampton
Don’t Let the Landlord Gyp You – Lionel Hampton
The Hucklebuck – Lionel Hampton
Hit That Jive Jack – King Cole Trio
Scotchin’ with the Soda – King Cole Trio
Sweet Lorraine – King Cole Trio
Sweet Lorraine – Jimmie Noone
There’s a Small Hotel – Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis
Tickle Toe – Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis
Leapin’ on Lennox – Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis
Cry You Out of My Heart – Ella Fitzgerald
A Kiss Goodnight – Ella Fitzgerald
I Want to Learn About Love – Ella Fitzgerald
How High the Moon – Ella Fitzgerald
Let It Rain – Jubilaires
Sixth Avenue Express – Ammons & Johnson
Keep a Twinkle in Your Eye – Nicholas Brothers
All Night Long – Rusty Bryant
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