Louis Jordan was a pioneering American musician, bandleader and songwriter who had a huge influence on the development of popular music in the 20th century. Known as the “King of the Jukebox” and the “Father of Rhythm & Blues”, Jordan’s dynamic performances and infectious songs brought joy to millions. His innovative blend of jazz, blues and boogie-woogie paved the way for the birth of R&B and rock and roll.
Who is Louis Jordan?
Louis Thomas Jordan was born on July 8, 1908 in Brinkley, Arkansas. From a young age, he was immersed in music. His mother was a pianist and music teacher. His father, James Aaron Jordan, was a musician and bandleader. Louis started out on clarinet as a teenager before switching to alto saxophone, which became his primary instrument.
In the 1930s, Jordan moved to New York City and became a popular session musician, recording with jazz greats like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald. His big break came in 1938 when he started playing in the Chick Webb Orchestra at the Savoy Ballroom. Jordan’s energetic stage presence and rousing vocals made him a standout performer.
In 1939, Jordan struck out on his own and formed the Tympany Five, a tight jumping combo that showcased his talents as a singer, saxophonist and songwriter. With hits like “G.I. Jive”, “Caldonia”, “Choo Choo Ch’Boogie” and “Ain’t Nobody Here But Us Chickens”, Jordan dominated the “race records” charts in the 1940s. His songs were the soundtrack for a generation.
What set Jordan apart was his humorous, playful lyrics and animated showmanship. He engaged the audience like no one else, mugging, dancing, joking around and driving crowds wild. Jordan’s joyful music and irrepressible personality made him one of the first black crossover stars. He also appeared in several musical films.
Early Life and Background
Louis Jordan was born into a musical family in the small town of Brinkley, Arkansas in 1908. His mother, Adell, was a music teacher and taught him piano as a child. Louis’ father, James, led the Brinkley Brass Band and inspired Louis to pursue music as a career.
Growing up, young Louis was immersed in his parents’ love of music. He started playing clarinet and saxophone as a teenager. After graduating from high school in 1928, Jordan attended Arkansas Baptist College on a music scholarship. He wanted to study music seriously and hone his skills.
In the early 1930s, Jordan moved to Philadelphia and then New York to further his musical ambitions. He quickly made a name for himself playing alto sax in various swing bands in Harlem. In 1936, legendary drummer Chick Webb hired Jordan to play in his prestigious orchestra. Jordan’s captivating stage presence made him a favorite with audiences.
Marriage to Lena Horne
Jordan was briefly married to singer Lena Horne in 1941. The two met in 1940 when Horne was performing at the Cotton Club with the Teddy Wilson Orchestra. Jordan was playing sax in Wilson’s band at the time. The couple wed in January 1941 but divorced after only 7 months due to Jordan’s constant touring.
Family Life and Children
Jordan was married five times and had four children. His first wife was high school sweetheart Julia Vance, whom he wed in 1932. The marriage ended in divorce. Jordan remarried in 1943 to childhood friend Fleecy Moore. They had a daughter, Patti, before divorcing in 1951.
Jordan found love again with dancer Vicky Hayes, tying the knot in 1951. The couple had a son, Anthony, in 1952 before going their separate ways. In 1959, Jordan married Martha Weaver, a Texas singer. They had two sons together, Edward and Lance, prior to divorcing in the late 1960s.
Jordan’s fifth and final marriage was to Martha Reddick in 1975. The couple remained together until Jordan’s passing in 1975 at age 66. Despite his larger-than-life stage persona, offstage Jordan was a devoted family man who loved nothing more than spending time with his children and grandkids. His musical legacy lives on through his family.
Role in Lena Horne’s Career and Life
Louis Jordan and Lena Horne first met in the 1940s when they were both rising stars. Jordan, already an established bandleader, took Horne under his wing. He helped launch her solo singing career, featuring her in his shows and recordings.
Their professional partnership soon turned romantic. Jordan and Horne married in 1947, at the height of their fame. As an interracial couple, they faced significant prejudice, but remained devoted to each other and their work.
Challenges in Their Relationship
Despite their strong connection, Jordan and Horne’s marriage was turbulent. Jordan’s grueling touring schedule kept them apart for long stretches. There were also rumors of infidelity on both sides. The pressure of being a high-profile interracial couple in the 1940s and 50s took a toll as well. They endured invasive media scrutiny and discrimination, adding strain to their relationship.
Divorce and Life After Separation
After 13 years of marriage, Jordan and Horne divorced in 1960. It was a difficult split, with their careers also diverging. Horne focused more on acting, becoming a successful stage and screen performer. Jordan continued touring and recording, though his popularity gradually waned. Both remarried and had children with other partners.
Legacy and Connection to Lena Horne
Though their marriage ended, Louis Jordan and Lena Horne remained connected through their daughter, Gail. Later in life, they expressed respect and affection for one another, despite the challenges they’d faced.
Jordan passed away in 1975, but his musical legacy endures. Many credit him with paving the way for R&B, rock and roll, and even hip-hop. Horne spoke highly of Jordan’s talent and influence until her own passing in 2010.
Lesser-Known Facts About Louis Jordan
While Jordan is best known for his music, he was a man of many talents. Did you know he was also an actor? He appeared in several musical films in the 1940s. Jordan was also a savvy businessman. He was one of the first Black musicians to own his own music publishing company. This allowed him greater control over his career and finances.
On a personal note, Jordan was an avid golfer. He often played with other celebrities like Bob Hope and Bing Crosby. He even performed at some of the earliest pro-am golf tournaments.
Conclusion
Louis Thomas Jordan was a pioneer in music and entertainment. His relationship with Lena Horne, while complicated, was also an important part of his life story. Together and separately, they achieved remarkable things and left an indelible mark on American culture. Jordan’s joyful music and irrepressible spirit continue to resonate with audiences today.
