| With the help of the Blue Devils
whom he recruited in the late twenties, "Bennie" Moten established and
defined Kansas City jazz style. Moten was born in Kansas City. He played
baritone horn in Dan Blackburn's Band. Shortly after World War I, he formed
the B. B. & D. trio. In September of 1923, the Moten band accompanied
Ada Brown on what is considered the first recording of Kansas City Jazz,
"Evil Mama Blues" Okeh was one of many "race" labels which catered to African
Americans. In 1926, Moten began recording for the Victor label and expanded
the band to 11 pieces. |
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