Benny Goodman, known as the “King of Swing,” was a famous American jazz clarinettist and bandleader. Born in Chicago in 1909 to Jewish immigrants from the Russian Empire, he began playing the clarinet at a young age and showed great talent. He received training at Hull House and from a renowned musician, Franz Schoepp. By his teenage years, Goodman was performing professionally and made a name for himself in the vibrant jazz scene of the 1920s.

His big break came in the mid-1930s with the “Let’s Dance” radio programme, leading to a notable performance in Los Angeles in 1935. Goodman was also significant for breaking racial barriers by hiring Black musicians. His 1938 concert at Carnegie Hall established jazz as an important music genre. Throughout his life, Goodman remained a dedicated performer and helped popularise jazz, making it accessible to millions.