STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

This Day in Black History: Aug. 21, 1904

Bandleader William "Count" Basie was born in Red Bank, New Jersey, on Aug. 21, 1904.

Legendary bandleader, composer and jazz pianist William "Count" Basie was born in Red Bank, New Jersey, on Aug. 21, 1904. As a young man, Basie toured the vaudeville circuit as a solo pianist, music director and accompanist for blues singers, comedians and dancers but would go on to record alongside legends including Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald. He is perhaps best known for his 1937 hit, "One O' Clock Jump," which helped solidify his status as one of the great band leaders in the big band and swing genres. On April 26, 1984, at the age of 79, he passed away from pancreatic cancer in Hollywood, Florida.
BET National News - Keep up to date with breaking news stories from around the nation, including headlines from the hip hop and entertainment world. Click here to subscribe to our newsletter. 

(Photo: Reg Birkett/Getty Images)

Latest News

Subscribe for BET Updates

Provide your email address to receive our newsletter.


By clicking Subscribe, you confirm that you have read and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. You also agree to receive marketing communications, updates, special offers (including partner offers) and other information from BET and the Paramount family of companies. You understand that you can unsubscribe at any time.