Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Fletcher Henderson was a trendsetter. Beginning in 1923, he closely marks the transition from New Orleans jazz to big band. He was one of the first black artists to successfully collaborate with white artists. He cultivated amazing talent in his band including the beginning of Louis Armstrong’s career. His contributions drove the swing era to its heyday.
I first heard Stealin’ Apples almost exactly one year ago when I began getting into pre-big band music and it has been in my top ten ever since. This song is a perfect combination between a catchy riff, a nice tempo at 185bpm, a relaxed sound, and something that makes me want to bounce and dance. There are quite a few versions of this song, but the one on the album The Fletcher Henderson Story is my absolute favorite.