Chick Webb facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Chick Webb
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | William Henry Webb |
| Born | February 10, 1905 Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. |
| Died | June 16, 1939 (aged 34) Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. |
| Genres | Jazz |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, bandleader |
| Instruments | Drums |
| Years active | c. 1926-1939 |
| Associated acts | Ella Fitzgerald, Johnny Hodges, Sidney Bechet, Van Alexander |
William Henry "Chick" Webb (born February 10, 1905 – died June 16, 1939) was an amazing American jazz and swing music drummer. He was also a famous band leader. Chick Webb became one of the most important musicians of his time, known for his powerful drumming and leading skills, even though he faced health challenges.
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Early Life of Chick Webb
Chick Webb was born in Baltimore, Maryland. There are different ideas about his exact birth year, but many sources say he was born in 1905. He had three sisters.
When Chick was a baby, he had a bad fall that hurt his back. This injury led to a condition that affected his spine, making him shorter and giving him a curved back. His doctor suggested playing an instrument to help him move better. Chick decided to play the drums. He worked as a newspaper boy to save enough money to buy his own drums. He started playing music professionally when he was just 11 years old.
Chick Webb's Music Career
At 17, Chick Webb moved to New York City. By 1926, he was leading his own band in Harlem. Another jazz drummer, Tommy Benford, even gave Chick drum lessons when he first arrived in New York.
His band played in New York City clubs and went on tours. In 1931, his band became the main band at the famous Savoy Ballroom. This was a very popular place for dancing and music. Chick became one of the best bandleaders and drummers in the new "swing" style.
Chick Webb's Drumming Style
Many drummers looked up to Chick Webb. The famous drummer Buddy Rich said that Chick's strong technique and amazing performances greatly influenced his own drumming. Buddy Rich even called Chick Webb "the daddy of them all."
Chick Webb couldn't read music. Instead, he remembered all the songs and arrangements his band played. He would lead the band from a special platform in the middle of the stage. He used custom-made drum pedals and other special equipment, including a very large bass drum.
Battles of the Bands
At the Savoy Ballroom, Chick Webb's band often competed in exciting "battle of the bands" contests. They played against other famous groups like the Benny Goodman Orchestra and the Count Basie Orchestra.
In 1937, Chick's band lost to Duke Ellington's band. But in 1938, a judge said Chick's band won against Count Basie's band. Even Count Basie himself said he was glad he didn't embarrass himself! Musicians talked about the results of that contest for many years.
Ella Fitzgerald Joins the Band
Chick Webb married Martha Loretta Ferguson, also known as "Sally." In 1935, he started featuring a young singer named Ella Fitzgerald with his band. Ella was still a teenager at the time.
Chick and Ella performed many popular songs together. One of their biggest hits was "A-Tisket, A-Tasket," which was written by Van Alexander especially for Ella. Even though some people thought Chick adopted Ella, she actually didn't live with him and his wife.
Later Life and Legacy
In late 1938, Chick Webb's health started to get worse. But he kept playing and touring so his band members could keep their jobs during the Great Depression. He often pushed himself too hard, sometimes even passing out from tiredness after playing.
In 1939, he had a big operation in Baltimore. Sadly, Chick Webb passed away on June 16, 1939, because of his long-term health condition. People say his last words were, "I'm sorry, I've got to go." He was buried in Baltimore County.
Chick Webb's death was a sad moment for the jazz and swing community. After he passed away, Ella Fitzgerald led the Chick Webb band for a few years. She then left to start her amazing solo career in 1942, and the band eventually broke up.
Many famous musicians, like Art Blakey and Duke Ellington, said that Chick Webb influenced their music. Gene Krupa said that Chick helped make drummers more important in bands. Chick's powerful drum solos were very complex and full of energy. They helped pave the way for other great drummers like Buddy Rich and Louie Bellson.
In February 1940, about 7,500 people attended a special event in Baltimore to honor Chick Webb. His wife Sally, his mother Marie, his sister Mabel, and Ella Fitzgerald were all there. The famous boxing champion Joe Louis also attended.
Discography
- Ella Sings, Chick Swings (Olympic, 1974)
- Stomping at the Savoy (Proper, 2006)
- The Complete Chick Webb & Ella Fitzgerald Decca Sessions (Mosaic, 2013)
See also
In Spanish: Chick Webb para niños
