Jack Bland & His Rhythmakers - A Shine On Your Shoes

Jack Bland (1899-1968) was a banjoist and bandleader who co-founded the Mound City Blue Blowers with Red McKenzie in 1924 in St. Louis. After Eddie Lang joined in 1924, the group toured in England. Later in the 20s, Bland, due to the receding role of the banjo, began playing cello and guitar. In 1929, Lang left the group, and Gene Krupa joined; Muggsy Spanier, Coleman Hawkins and Eddie Condon would all play in the ensemble in the 30s. Also in 1929, the Blue Blowers appeared in a short film, The Opry House. Bland recorded with the Billy Banks Orchestra in the 30s. Following this, he recorded with the Rhythmakers, featured in this video. Pops Foster and Fats Waller played with the group at times. In the 40s Bland played on 52nd Street at Jimmy Ryan's Club. From 1942 to 1944 he played with Art Hodes and Muggsy Spanier; he led his own band from 1944 to 1950. In the 50s, Bland moved to Los Angeles and retired from performing. This recording was made in 1932; vocal by Chick Bullock.