Watch Cab Calloway - Hi-de-ho And Other Movies
- 2008
- 1 hr 41 min
Cab Calloway - Hi-de-ho and Other Movies is a collection of films featuring the legendary jazz singer and bandleader Cab Calloway. The compilation includes four short films from the 1930s and 1940s that showcase Calloway's incredible talent and energetic performances. The first film in the collection is Cab Calloway's Hi-De-Ho, a 1934 musical short that marks Calloway's film debut. In this film, Calloway plays a version of himself, leading his orchestra in a variety of musical numbers, including the iconic song "Minnie the Moocher." The film features stunning choreography and Calloway's signature scat singing, making it an instant classic of the era.
The second film, The Big Broadcast of 1936, is a full-length feature that features Calloway and his orchestra performing several musical numbers. The film also stars Bing Crosby and George Burns and Gracie Allen, among others. Calloway's performance of "This Is My Sunday Suit" is a highlight of the film.
Next up is a short film from 1938 called The Singing Kid, starring child star Al Jolson as a down-on-his-luck performer who finds himself in the middle of a plot to kidnap a young heiress. Calloway appears in the film as himself, performing "Geechy Joe" and "I Love to Sing-a" with his orchestra.
The final film in the collection is the 1947 musical short Hi-De-Ho Again. In this film, Calloway plays a nightclub owner who is trying to save his establishment from going out of business. Calloway and his orchestra perform several numbers throughout the film, including "Zaz Zuh Zaz."
Throughout all four films, Calloway's charisma and talent are on full display. His energetic performances and unique style of singing and dancing make him a joy to watch, and his importance to the history of jazz and African American music cannot be overstated.
In addition to showcasing Calloway's performances, these films also provide a glimpse into the cultural landscape of the time in which they were made. From the elaborate dance numbers to the colorful costumes to the slang and mannerisms of the performers, the films are a fascinating snapshot of the era.
Overall, Cab Calloway - Hi-de-ho and Other Movies is a must-see for fans of jazz and classic Hollywood musicals. It is an important historical document that captures the talent and charisma of one of the most important figures in the history of jazz music.