Eddy Duchin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Eddy Duchin
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Eddy Duchin in a 1942 advertisement
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Edwin Frank Duchin |
| Born | April 1, 1909 Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Died | February 9, 1951 (aged 41) Manhattan, New York City, NY, U.S. |
| Genres | Pop |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, bandleader |
| Instruments | Piano |
| Years active | 1930–1951 |
| Labels | Columbia, Brunswick |
| Associated acts | Peter Duchin |
Eddy Duchin (born Edwin Frank Duchin) was a famous American musician. He played the piano and led a popular band. He was well-known in the 1930s and 1940s.
Starting His Music Career
Eddy Duchin was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This was on April 1, 1909. He first studied to be a pharmacist. But he loved music more. He joined Leo Reisman's orchestra. They played at the fancy Central Park Casino in New York.
Eddy became very popular there. Soon, he took over as the orchestra's leader. He became famous because his music was played on the radio often. This helped him sell many records. He was one of the first pianists to lead a big, successful band.
His Unique Musical Style
Eddy Duchin played a style of music called "sweet" music. It was different from jazz. His music opened the door for other piano players. They also led "sweet" bands. These included musicians like Carmen Cavallaro.
Eddy didn't have formal music lessons. But he created his own style. It had roots in classical music. He was known for playing the piano in a special way. He would cross his hands and use just one finger on his lower hand. He was always respectful to his audience.
Eddy often used singers with soft, beautiful voices. These included Durelle Alexander and Lew Sherwood. They helped make his romantic songs even more appealing. In 1940, he had a hit song called "So You're the One."
Later Life and Legacy
Eddy Duchin joined the U.S. Navy during World War II. He served as an officer. He fought in the Mediterranean and Pacific areas. He reached the rank of lieutenant commander.
After the war, Eddy tried to restart his music career. He even had a new radio show in 1949. But he couldn't become as famous as he once was.
Eddy Duchin passed away on February 9, 1951. He was 41 years old. He had a type of blood cancer called leukemia.
His life story was made into a movie. It was called The Eddy Duchin Story (1956). The movie starred Tyrone Power. Another famous pianist, Carmen Cavallaro, played the piano parts for the film. The movie was very popular.
In 2002, an album of his recordings was released. It was called Dancing with Duchin.
Images for kids
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Eddy Duchin in a 1942 advertisement
