Jimmy Rushing by Francine Winham

Jimmy Rushing (aka “Mr Five by Five” because of his build) was both a blues & jazz singer.  His voice was once described as “a...

Jimmy Rushing (aka “Mr Five by Five” because of his build) was both a blues & jazz singer.  His voice was once described as “a magnificent gargle”.

In 1927 Rushing met a young piano player named Bill Basie, who eight years later formed the Count Basie Orchestra with Rushing as principal vocalist - a partnership that lasted for the next 30 years.