Benny Meroff(1901-1973)

Bandleader Benny Meroff's career falls into the category of what George T. Simon referred to as "The Veterans," leaders who had successful musical careers prior to the start of the Big Band Era. Meroff began his career on clarinet with Ted Lewis' "Nut" band near the end of World War I. Benny Meroff led bands of his own through the 1920s and 1930s, making recordings for Columbia, Okeh and Brunswick. Part of that period was spent leading stage bands in the Chicago area. Meroff, an accomplished musician, played virtually every instrument in his band. (Bandleader Vince Giordano acquired Benny's "straight" baritone sax, made especially for Benny by the Buescher company.)

Around 1936 Benny decided to reorganize his band, along the then-current "swing" style, which was made popular by another Benny...Benny Goodman. The Meroff band also featured comedy bits in its repertoire, and was billed as "Benny Meroff and his Jibe Orchestra."