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Billy Butterfield
Charles William Butterfield
Trumpeter, Flugelhornist, Bandleader
(1917 - 1988)
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Billy Butterfield started playing the trumpet professionally as a teenager and was already well known in his early 20’s during his tenure with Bob Crosby and His Orchestra (1937-1940). Recognized for his pure, broad tone and masterful phrasing, Butterfield was often featured on trumpet solos, the best known of which are his 1937 recordings of “I’m Free” (later to be “What’s New?”) and Margaret Whiting’s recording of “Moonlight in Vermont.” Butterfield later played with Artie Shaw and is remembered for his 1940 performance of “Stardust” with the Gramercy Five. After a stint with Benny Goodman, he formed his own band at the close of World War II. Butterfield remained active in jazz up until his death, notably touring with The World’s Greatest Jazz Band, led by former Bob Crosby band mates Yank Lawson and Bob Haggart.
- Jeremy Wilson |
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