Cab Calloway: The Original Frontman?

As you should know, Cab Calloway from the beginning has been the biggest inspiration for Yehoodi.com. So we are always excited to see this legendary musician and entertainer spotlighted anywhere. Spuds came across this neat video essay by Polyphonic about Cab called “The Original Frontman” that is worth a watch.

The central thesis is that while many popular entertainers are famous for their electric stage personas — from Elvis Presley to Beyonce — the original “frontman” who elevated the art of fronting a band was Cab Calloway. According to the producer, Calloway was the first bandleader to combine incredible singing ability, dancing prowess, and showmanship to elevate the music for the audience, in a way that had never been done before. It’s interesting to think about the parallels between Cab and say Prince, which seems so obvious to me.

I particularly like how the author focuses on how Cab’s sister Blanche Calloway was likely a direct inspiration for him. I do wish he had delved into why Cab became such a worldwide sensation, when his sister achieved only modest attention. (HINT: Sexism. )

Watch the video and tell us what you think!