The composer and band leader Artie Shaw rose to prominence during the 1930s
during the big band era. In 1938, after the release of his version of Cole
Porter's 'Begin the Beguine', the clarinettist from New York was launched into
the big time. Shaw and his ensemble were suddenly in demand across America and
beyond and were frequently performing live radio broadcasts from across the
States.
During this period Shaw is reported to have been earning $60,000 a week and
during his musical career sold over 100 million records. This golden era was
brought to an abrupt halt by the Ja...