The Mills Blue Rhythm Band was a jazz big band from Harlem, New York, formed in 1930. Initially led by saxophonist Bingie Madison, the band changed its name to Mills Blue Rhythm Band when Irving Mills became their manager in 1931. They gained prominence as one of the leading swing bands of the 1930s and performed under various names including Blue Rhythm Band. The band had a residency at the Cotton Club in Harlem. The Mills Blue Rhythm Band recorded their first singles "Let’s Have A Jubilee / Out Of A Dream" in 1934 for Columbia Records. Their biggest hit was "Solitude" (1935), reaching number 8 on the charts. After leaving Columbia in 1937, the band recorded for Irving Mills' Variety label until disbanding in 1938. Irving Mills revived the Mills Blue Rhythm Band name for two recording sessions in 1947.
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Jazz Era, Mills Blue Rhythm Band 1931
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Big Bands of the Swing. Mills Blue Rhythm Band Vol.2
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Harlem Heat (Original Recordings 1934 - 1935)
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White Lightning (Original Recordings 1932 - 1935)
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Mr. Ghost Goes To Town (Original Recordings 1936 - 1937)
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Congo Caravan (Original Recordings 1935 - 1936)
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Harlem After Midnight (Original Recordings 1933 - 1934)
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Cabin In The Cotton (Original Recordings 1931 - 1932)
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Until The Real Thing Comes Along (Original Recordings 1936)
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Cabin In The Cotton (Original Recordings - 1931 - 1932)
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| Jazz Archives Presents: "Keep the Rhythm Going" (1935-1936) |
| Harlem Heat |
| Mills Blue Rhythm Band: 1933-1936 |
| Rhythm Spasm |
| Blue Rhythm |