About the album
James Reese Europe was the world's most accomplished black bandleader before 1920. he was internationally famous as the founder of New York's Clef Club, and as music director for Vernon and Irene Castle.
During World War I, he organized and led the all-black 369th U.S. Infantry "Hell Fighters" Band. They fought in the trenches, introduced that new music "Jazz" to the Continent, and were acclaimed in France and America as the greatest-ever regimental band.
In May, 1919, the "Hell Fighters" were on the last leg of their triumphal U.S. victory concert tour when Europe was murdered at age 39. All 24 recordings he made for Pathe in the last two months of his life are collected on this CD as well as a 44 page booklet with rare photographs and liner notes.
- Label
- Memphis Archives