Watch Cab Calloway In "Hi-De-Ho" - All Black Cast Extravaganza, Uncut!

Cab Calloway in “Hi-De-Ho” – All Black Cast Extravaganza, Uncut! is a classic musical film from 1947 starring the legendary Cab Calloway as himself. Directed by Josh Binney, this film showcases the vibrant talents of African American performers and musicians of the 1940s. The plot of the film follows a struggling African American band led by Cab Calloway as they try to make a name for themselves in the music industry. When Nina Mae McKinney, a talented singer, leaves the band to pursue a solo career, Cab is left to find a replacement. He comes across a young woman named Jenni (played by Ida James), who has a beautiful voice but lacks confidence. Cab takes Jenni under his wing and trains her to take her place in the band.

The film features several exciting musical performances by Cab Calloway and his band, including some of his most famous hits such as “Minnie the Moocher” and “St. James Infirmary.” One of the standout performances is a rendition of “Minnie the Moocher” that features Cab doing his signature “hi-de-ho” routine and dancing with Betty Boop, the popular cartoon character. The scene was originally part of a cartoon short, but Cab and his band reenact it flawlessly in the live-action setting of the film.

The star-studded cast also includes some of the biggest names in African American entertainment at the time, such as the legendary jazz musician Dizzy Gillespie and the tap dancer Bill Bailey. Together, they create an unforgettable showcase of African American talent and culture that celebrates the richness and diversity of the community.

One of the most interesting aspects of this film is the way it challenges the stereotypes and racial prejudices that were prevalent in Hollywood at the time. The film features an all-black cast and crew, which was a rarity in Hollywood during the 1940s. Despite the challenges of working within a segregated industry, the filmmakers of Cab Calloway in “Hi-De-Ho” were able to create a film that celebrated African American culture and talent without compromising their vision or message.

The film’s message of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity is also a powerful and inspiring theme that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. The struggles of Cab and his band to make a name for themselves in a segregated industry mirror the struggles faced by African Americans in all areas of society during this time period. Their triumphs serve as a testament to the resilience and strength of the community and its ability to create its own spaces for expression and celebration.

Overall, Cab Calloway in “Hi-De-Ho” – All Black Cast Extravaganza, Uncut! is a must-see film for lovers of music, dance, and African American culture. It captures the energy and spirit of the 1940s jazz scene while also providing a powerful commentary on racial inequality and the resilience of the African American community. The film’s talented cast, catchy tunes, and inspiring message make it a classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.