The dance orchestra, broadcast live
Big Bands on the Air
For a decade, a live band remote from a hotel ballroom was standard late-night programming. The music that later filled record shops was first heard here, live and unedited.
1935 – 1946 · 5 stops · 2h 35m
- 1
One of the format's best-remembered names, captured live rather than in the studio.
Glenn Miller on the Air · VintageAFRS 024 - Command Performance - Cary Grant - Judy Garland - Woody Herman 07-28-42
28 Jul 1942 · 30 min
- 2
The bandleader most credited with popularising the format nationally.
Benny Goodman on the Air · VintageAFRS 024 - Command Performance - Cary Grant - Judy Garland - Woody Herman 07-28-42
28 Jul 1942 · 30 min
- 3
A broadcast catalogue as extensive as any studio discography.
Duke Ellington on the Air · Vintage15 Minutes With Crosby 1931-09-02 (1) First Song - Just One More Chance
2 Sep 1931 · 7 min
- 4
The disc-jockey format that would eventually replace the live band remote entirely.
- 5
The wartime version — bands broadcasting specifically for troops overseas.
Victory Parade of Spotlight Bands · VintageAFRS - Victory Parade Of Spotlight Bands 41-11-22 Glenn Miller First Song
22 Nov 1941 · 29 min