Clifford Hayes (musician) facts for kids
Clifford George Hayes (born March 10, 1893 – died October 22, 1941) was a talented African-American musician and bandleader. He played many instruments and led several popular music groups in the 1920s and 1930s. Clifford Hayes was famous for his jug band and jazz music. His main instrument was the violin.
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Clifford Hayes: A Musical Journey
Clifford George Hayes was born in Green County, Kentucky. When he was young, he moved with his family to Jeffersonville, Indiana. Later, they settled in Louisville.
Early Musical Life
Clifford Hayes loved music from a young age. He learned to play several instruments. These included the fiddle, piano, and saxophone. In 1913, he joined a group called the Original Louisville Jug Band. This was an important step in his musical career.
Leading His Own Bands
By 1919, Clifford Hayes was ready to lead his own music group. He formed a band called the Dixieland Jug Blowers. This group became very well-known. He also led other bands, such as Clifford's Louisville Jug Band. Another famous group he led was Hayes's Louisville Stompers.
Recording His Music
Clifford Hayes started making recordings in 1924. His first recordings were with a singer named Sara Martin. They played together in the Old Southern Jug Band. He also recorded with a skilled jug player named Earl McDonald.
In 1925, he recorded for Okeh Records with Clifford's Louisville Jug Band. He also recorded in Chicago with the Dixieland Jug Blowers. Famous musicians like clarinet player Johnny Dodds joined him. Later, his band, Hayes's Louisville Stompers, recorded between 1927 and 1929. The famous pianist Earl Hines played on some of these songs.
Clifford Hayes made his last recordings in 1931. He recorded for Victor Records with other artists, including Jimmie Rodgers. Today, many people who collect music still highly value his recordings.
Later Years
Clifford Hayes passed away in Chicago in 1941. He left behind a wonderful collection of music. His work helped shape the sounds of jug band and jazz music.
