Ep 5. Swing: Pure Pleasure (1935-1937)

Swing: Pure Pleasure (1935-1937) is the fifth episode of season one of Ken Burns: Jazz. The episode delves into the popularity of swing music, which emerged in the mid-1930s and took the American music scene by storm.

The episode begins with the story of Benny Goodman, a young musician who became the king of swing and popularized the genre. Goodman's success in blending several kinds of music such as blues, jazz, and swing became a sensation that attracted thousands of fans. He established his orchestra in 1935, and with a hit performance in the Palomar Ballroom in Los Angeles, the big band era had kicked off.

The episode explores how swing music empowered African American artists at a time when segregation was rampant in the United States, allowing them to break into mainstream society and share their talents with the world. The documentary highlights the unique and fresh sounds that emanated from the newly formed orchestras, giving a rebirth to the jazz music that was slowly losing its appeal.

The film then explores the social and political changes that were taking place in the country during the swing era. The episode reveals how the country was grappling with the Great Depression, an economic crisis that was affecting the livelihoods of millions of Americans. Swing music became a form of comfort for people, a pleasurable escape from their daily lives.

The episode further delves into the resistance towards swing music in certain quarters of society. At the time, radio stations feared that swing would be too provocative for their listeners. Churches and conservative groups denounced swing music as immoral, fearful that it would lead their followers astray. The film sheds light on the various opinions of prominent musicians like Duke Ellington, who believed that swing music could transcend boundaries and achieve global appeal.

Swing: Pure Pleasure (1935-1937) also looks at the impact of swing music on Hollywood, where it was heavily featured in films. The documentary takes us through the impact of the movie "The Big Broadcast" on the success of swing music. The movie, which was released in 1932, became a massive success, with the music played becoming the biggest hits of the swing era. From there, swing music became a staple in major Hollywood productions, and for entertainment seekers worldwide.

The film features interviews with various experts and historians who offer their commentary on the swing era. Interviews with jazz artist Cab Calloway, Savion Glover, the Nicholas Brothers, and Geoffrey Ward all give personal perspectives on what swing meant to them and the impact it had on American music.

In conclusion, Swing: Pure Pleasure (1935-1937) is an exciting episode that reveals a major turning point in American music. It highlights how swing music revolutionized music in the 1930s and became the foundation of modern jazz. The episode is a testament to the perseverance and creativity of artists and musicians in a deeply segregated and racist America and how they were able to transform the industry and history as a whole.