Cab Calloway | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : February 02, 2025

Who is Cab Calloway?

Cab Calloway was a pioneering American singer, bandleader, and entertainer renowned for his exuberant performance style and innovative scat singing technique. Born on December 25, 1907, in Rochester, New York, Calloway grew up in Baltimore, where he first harnessed his passion for music. His significant break came when he moved to Chicago, where he was mentored by jazz legend Louis Armstrong and formed his band, the Alabamians. In 1930, Calloway secured a regular spot at the iconic Cotton Club in Harlem, where he captivated audiences and solidified his place in music history.

Calloway's career soared to new heights with the release of "Minnie the Moocher" in 1931, which became a chart-topping hit and established his reputation as a leading figure in the jazz and swing genres. Known for his signature phrase "hi-de-hi-de-ho," he became one of the most popular entertainers of the 1930s and 1940s. Throughout his illustrious career, Calloway not only released numerous successful songs such as "Moon Glow" and "Blues in the Night," but also made notable appearances in films, influencing popular culture with his vibrant personality and undeniable talent.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Calloway penned books like "The New Cab Calloway's Hepster's Dictionary," which introduced jazz vernacular to a broader audience. Later in his life, he embraced new generations of fans by appearing on television and in films, including a memorable role in "The Blues Brothers." His legacy continued until his death on November 18, 1994, when he left behind a powerful influence on jazz music and culture that still resonates today.

Early Life and Education

Cabell Calloway III, known as Cab Calloway, was born on December 25, 1907, in Rochester, New York. He was raised in a vibrant, musical environment in Baltimore, Maryland, where his childhood interest in music blossomed. Calloway's passion for singing was kindled during his time in Baltimore, and he developed a love for visiting racetracks, which would later inspire many of his musical themes. His family life and community played an essential role in shaping his artistic persona, leading him to pursue a career in music rather than following the traditional path in law.

Calloway initially enrolled at Crane College in Chicago, where he began studying law. However, his unwavering focus on music became evident through his performances at local venues. It was at the Sunset Club in Chicago that Calloway met Louis Armstrong, a pivotal moment in his early career. Armstrong's mentorship introduced him to the art of scat singing, a style that would become a distinctive part of Calloway's repertoire. By 1928, he took the significant step of leading his own band, the Alabamians, setting the stage for his future success in New York and beyond.

His Career Start at the Cotton Club

Cab Calloway's career took a significant turn when he landed a gig at Harlem's legendary Cotton Club in 1930. This prestigious venue was a cornerstone of the Harlem Renaissance, where many jazz and blues legends performed. As the bandleader of the Cotton Club’s house band, Cab Calloway and his Orchestra captivated audiences with their high-energy performances and innovative sound. His dynamic stage presence, characterized by his stylish white tuxedos and lively interactions with the crowd, set him apart from his contemporaries and quickly made him a favorite among club-goers.

The breakthrough came with the release of "Minnie the Moocher" in 1931, a song that became a massive hit, selling over one million copies. The song's unique blend of jazz and scat singing showcased Calloway’s remarkable vocal talents and improvisational skills. His infectious call-and-response chorus, “hi-de-hi-de-ho,” became a signature phrase, solidifying his status as a leading figure in American entertainment. The success of "Minnie the Moocher" established Calloway as a household name and laid the groundwork for a prolific career that spanned decades, making him one of the most beloved entertainers of the 1930s and 1940s.

Rise to Fame with Iconic Songs

Cab Calloway, born Cabell Calloway III on December 25, 1907, in Rochester, New York, rose to fame as a vibrant entertainer in the 1930s and 1940s. His career took off after he began performing at the iconic Cotton Club in Harlem, where he showcased his extraordinary talent as a singer and bandleader. Under his leadership, Cab Calloway and his Orchestra became a central figure in the jazz scene, captivating audiences with their dynamic performances and innovative sound. Calloway's ability to infuse energy into every song helped to solidify his position as one of the era's most celebrated artists.

The breakthrough moment in Calloway's career came in 1931 with the release of "Minnie the Moocher," a track that not only became a No. 1 hit but also sold over one million copies. The song's catchy and improvised call-and-response chorus, "hi-de-hi-de-ho," quickly became his signature phrase, marking his unique style in the music industry. Following this success, Calloway continued to produce iconic songs like "Moon Glow," "The Jumpin’ Jive," and "Blues in the Night," further cementing his status as a household name. His charisma, combined with his exceptional musical talents, allowed Calloway to thrive, making significant contributions to jazz and popular music that resonate to this day.

Success in Film and Television

Cab Calloway's dynamic stage presence extended beyond the concert halls and nightclubs into the world of film and television. His breakout role came in the 1932 film "The Big Broadcast", where his energetic performance established him as a leading figure in the entertainment industry. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, he appeared in films such as "The Singing Kid" (1936) and the classic musical "Stormy Weather" (1943), which showcased his talent for both singing and acting. Calloway's roles often highlighted his charisma and unique vocal style, making him a beloved face of the era.

In the 1980s, Calloway continued to capture the hearts of new generations through his appearances in popular media. One of his most notable appearances was in the 1980 cult classic "The Blues Brothers", where he reprised his iconic song "Minnie the Moocher" in a memorable performance that celebrated his legacy. Additionally, Calloway introduced his timeless music to children through his guest spots on "Sesame Street", facilitating a delightful connection between jazz and young audiences. His contributions to film and television not only enriched his legacy but also helped preserve the cultural significance of jazz in American entertainment.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Cab Calloway married Zulme "Nuffie" Calloway in the mid-1950s, and they settled in Greenburgh, New York. Their marriage was characterized by mutual support and a shared passion for music, which extended into their family life. Together, they welcomed one daughter, Chris Calloway, who followed in her father's footsteps to become a talented jazz singer and dancer. Their home was a nurturing environment where music thrived, allowing Chris to cultivate her own artistic talents while being influenced by her father's remarkable legacy.

Throughout their life together, Calloway and Nuffie experienced the highs and lows of fame and personal challenges. Nuffie remained a pillar of support for Calloway during his illustrious career and later years. Following Chris's tragic battle with breast cancer, which led to her passing in August 2008, Nuffie also faced her own struggles with health. She died a couple of months later in a nursing home in Delaware at the age of 93. The loss of both women deeply impacted Calloway, but their memories continued to resonate in the music and love that defined his extraordinary life.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary Insights

Cab Calloway, known for his energetic performances and charismatic stage presence, became one of the highest-paid entertainers of his time. While precise figures of Calloway's net worth at the peak of his career are challenging to pin down, it is widely believed that he earned substantial sums from his performances at renowned venues like the Cotton Club. His band’s performances not only included impressive financial rewards but also allowed him to hire some of the best musicians of the era, establishing a reputation that was second only to fellow bandleader Duke Ellington.

In addition to his live performances, Calloway also profited from his hit records, including “Minnie the Moocher,” which sold over a million copies. This financial success was complemented by his appearances in popular films and his contributions to broadcasting. Furthermore, Calloway’s influence extended into literary avenues with his publication of “The New Cab Calloway’s Hepster's Dictionary," adding to his income. Throughout his diverse career—from stage and screen to recordings and writing—Calloway demonstrated a remarkable ability to capitalize on his talents, ensuring his legacy in the world of music and entertainment.