Playlist For December 26, 2018

The playlist for the December 26, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle - 2018 New Year's Special - has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Peace On Earth

On this Friday before Christmas, I wanted to again post one of my favorite holiday cartoons.  Although some of the imagery in this film seems a bit dark for a holiday cartoon, the message is always relevant.  This short was released in 1939, when Europe was either on the brink of or already at war, many in the U.S. were not interested in reliving the horrors of World War I, and the Japanese had not yet attacked Pearl Harbor.  From the Internet Archive, here is Peace On Earth.

I'll be taking a break for a week, but I'll back in January.  Until then, I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Sunrise Serenade: Santa Claus Got Stuck In My Chimney

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Santa Claus Got Stuck In My Chimney" by Ella Fitzgerald.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Playlist For December 19, 2018

The playlist for the December 19, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle - 2018 Christmas Special - has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: He'll Be Coming Down The Chimney

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "He'll Be Coming Down The Chimney" by Guy Lombardo & His Royal Canadians.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: The Christmas Song

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "The Christmas Song" by Jack Teagarden.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" by Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Christmas Comes But Once A Year

Today we revisit one of the Fleischer Studios' Color Classics in which Grampy uses a little innovation to bring Christmas joy to some orphans.  From the Internet Archive, here is the 1936 animated short, Christmas Comes But Once A Year. 

Sunrise Serenade: Jingle Bells

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Jingle Bells" by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: What Will Santa Claus Say?

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "What Will Santa Claus Say?" by Louis Prima and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Playlist For December 12, 2018

The playlist for the December 12, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: So Long, Sarah Jane

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "So Long, Sarah Jane" by the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Funiculi, Funicula

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Funiculi, Funicula" by Jimmy Dorsey and His Orchestra.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: New Year's Eve In A Haunted House

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "New Year's Eve In A Haunted House" by the Raymond Scott Quintet.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer

My non-Sunrise Serenade posts have dropped off a bit recently due to work and other annoyances, but I figured I could at least start up the holiday cartoons again. This encore from Christmas posts past is a Jam Handy animated short directed by Max Fleischer.  From the Internet Archive, here is Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer.  According to legend, Gene Autry, who first recorded this song, did not want to record it.  His wife persuaded him. 

Sunrise Serenade: Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow" by Woody Herman and His Orchestra.  Enjoy the video below from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Igor

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Igor" by Woody Herman and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Playlist For December 5, 2018

The playlist for the December 5, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: Baby, It's Cold Outside

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Baby, It's Cold Outside" by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Jordan.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: That's What You Think

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "That's What You Think" by Gene Krupa and His Orchestra with Anita O'Day on vocals.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Nevertheless (I'm In Love With You)

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Nevertheless (I'm In Love With You)" by the Mills Brothers.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Playlist For November 28, 2018

The playlist for the November 28, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Happy Thanksgiving! And Holiday Break

Happy Thanksgiving from Ann Blyth and all of us here at the SSS.  I'll be taking a holiday break for a week or so, but I'll be back in December.  Meanwhile, have a happy and safe Thanksgiving. 

Playlist For November 21, 2018

The playlist for the November 21, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: St. James Infirmary

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "St. James Infirmary" by Cab Calloway.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: I'm A Ding Dong Daddy

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "I'm A Ding Dong Daddy" by Louis Armstrong.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Don't Sit Under The Apple Tree

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Don't Sit Under The Apple Tree" by Glenn Miller and his Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Jingle, Jangle, Jingle

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Jingle, Jangle, Jingle" by the Merry Macs.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Playlist For November 14, 2018 - Fall Pledge Drive Special

The playlist for the November 14, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle - Fall Pledge Drive Special:  Go West! - has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: Be Happy

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Be Happy" by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Nobody's Sweetheart

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Nobody's Sweetheart" by the Spirits of Rhythm.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Cow Cow Boogie

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Cow Cow Boogie" by Freddie Slack and His Orchestra with Ella Mae Morse on vocals.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Don't Fence Me In

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Don't Fence Me In" by Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Stay A Little Longer

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Stay A Little Longer" by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Playlist For November 7, 2018

The playlist for the November 7, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: Home In San Antone

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Home In San Antone" by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: New San Antonio Rose

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "New San Antonio Rose" by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: 720 In The Books

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "720 In The Books" by Jan Savitt and His Top Hatters.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Roly Poly

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Roly Poly" by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Monthly Swing Dance This Saturday

The Red Hot Lindy Hop monthly swing dance will be this Saturday, November 3, at the Rumba Room: 

Come learn to swing dance with Red Hot Lindy Hop! We feature a beginner lindy hop lesson 6-7 p.m. with a DJ'd dance with all the hits from the big band era 7-9 p.m. Full bar; $5 at the door. No partner or experience necessary!

Sunrise Serenade: Me And Brother Bill

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Me And Brother Bill" by Louis Armstrong.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Playlist For October 31, 2018 - Halloween Special

The playlist for the October 31, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Halloween Special Tonight!

Join me tonight on WEVL FM 89.9 for the Swing Shift Shuffle Halloween Special!  The ghosts and goblins will be swinging out with hot Halloween songs from your favorite Swing Era artists.  Tune in at 6:00 p.m. Central for the frightful fun. 

P.S. - The big smiley Jack O' Lantern belongs to my son, Benjamin.  The little demon cat is for his twin sister, Colleen. 

Sunrise Serenade: The Headless Horseman

Appropriately for Halloween, this morning's Sunrise Serenade was "The Headless Horseman" by Bing Crosby from the 1949 Disney film, The Adventures of Ichabod & Mr. Toad.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Deep Purple

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Deep Purple" by Artie Shaw and His Orchestra with Helen Forrest on vocals.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Arrows Across America

I saw this article on CNN a few months ago, and I am just now getting around to posting it, but better late than never.  Air mail was a relatively new thing back in the 1920s and '30s, as was aviation itself.  To help the fledging air mail pilots find their way, huge concrete arrows were placed along the routes, illuminated at night by nearby beacons.  With the beacon towers long since vanished, the arrows still remain, continuing to point toward the destination of those early pilots.  A California couple has created a website of all the arrows they have discovered, Arrows Across America, including a few with the towers and sheds still intact.

Sunrise Serenade: Minnie The Moocher's Wedding Day

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Minnie The Moocher's Wedding Day" by (who else?) Cab Calloway and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

There's Good Boos Tonight

Since this is the Friday before Halloween, I thought I would dust off this cartoon featuring Casper the Friendly Ghost.  From the Internet Archive, here is the 1948 animated short, There's Good Boos Tonight.

Sunrise Serenade: Dirt Dishin' Daisy

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Dirt Dishin' Daisy" by the Mills Brothers.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Baby, Won't You Please Come Home

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Baby, Won't You Please Come Home" by the Mills Brothers.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Right Or Wrong

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Right Or Wrong" by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Stormy Weather

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Stormy Weather" by Lena Horne.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Jimmie Lunceford Jamboree Festival, October 21-28

Memphis' own Jimmie Lunceford, a former Manassas High School teacher who went on to become one of the top big band leaders of the Swing Era, will be celebrated this week during the 2018 Jimmie Lunceford Jamboree Festival, which runs until October 28. 

Sunrise Serenade: A Maiden's Prayer

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "A Maiden's Prayer" by Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Song Of The Volga Boatmen

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Song Of The Volga Boatmen" by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Coney Island Washboard

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Coney Island Washboard" by the Mills Brothers.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Miss Molly

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Miss Molly" by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Chant Of The Jungle

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Chant Of The Jungle" by the Casa Loma Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Cherokee

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Cherokee" by Charlie Barnett and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Fall Break

The SSS is going into its Fall Break this week, but I'll be back next Monday. 

Sunrise Serenade: MacPherson Is Rehearsin'

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "MacPherson Is Rehearsin'" by Chick Webb and His Orchestra with Ella Fitzgerald.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Atom And Evil

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Atom And Evil" by the Golden Gate Quartet.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Playlist For October 3, 2018

The playlist for the October 3, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: Guilty

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Guilty" by Ella Fitzgerald.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: South American Joe

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "South American Joe" by Ambrose and His Orchestra with Donald Stewart on vocals.  Enjoy the video from YouTube. 

Sunrise Serenade: I'm Living In A Great Big Way

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "I'm Living In A Great Big Way" by Louis Prima.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Joshua Fit The Battle Of Jericho

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Joshua Fit The Battle Of Jericho" by the Golden Gate Quartet.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Playlist For September 26, 2018

The playlist for the September 26, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: Be Happy

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Be Happy" by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Over The Rainbow

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Over The Rainbow" by Judy Garland.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Bolero At The Savoy

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Bolero At The Savoy" by Gene Krupa and His Orchestra with Anita O'Day on vocals.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Playlist For September 19, 2018

The playlist for the September 19, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: All The Cats Join In

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "All The Cats Join In" by Benny Goodman and His Orchestra.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: Swinging On A Star

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Swinging On A Star" by Bing Crosby.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Ain't Nobody Here But Us Chickens

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Ain't Nobody Here But Us Chickens" by Louis Jordan and His Tympany Five.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me" by Count Basie and His Orchestra.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: The Booglie Wooglie Piggy

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "The Booglie Wooglie Piggy" by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Whatcha Gonna Do When There Ain't No Swing

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Whatcha Gonna Do When There Ain't No Swing?" by Frank Froeba and His Swing Band featuring Bunny Berigan on trumpet and Midge Williams on vocals.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: I Found My Yellow Basket

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "I Found My Yellow Basket" by Ella Fitzgerald with Chick Webb and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Someone's Rocking My Dreamboat

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Someone's Rocking My Dreamboat" by the Ink Spots.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: I Hadn't Anyone Till You

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "I Hadn't Anyone Till You" by Ella Fitzgerald.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Honeysuckle Rose

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Honeysuckle Rose" by the Spirits of Rhythm.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Playlist For September 5, 2018

The playlist for the September 5, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: And The Angels Sing

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "And The Angels Sing" by Benny Goodman and His Orchestra featuring Martha Tilton on vocals.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Are You Hep To The Jive

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Are You Hep To The Jive?" by Cab Calloway and His Orchestra.  Enjoy the video from YouTube. 

Sunrise Serenade: Ti-Pi-Tin

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Ti-Pi-Tin" by the Andrews Sisters.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: One Meatball

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "One Meatball" by the Andrews Sisters with Bing Crosby.  Enjoy the video below from YouTube.

Playlist For August 29, 2018

The playlist for the August 29, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: Pig Foot Pete

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Pig Foot Pete" by Ella Mae Morse.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: As Time Goes By

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "As Time Goes By" by Dooley Wilson (a/k/a "Sam" from Casablanca).  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Joseph, Joseph

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Joseph, Joseph" by the Andrews Sisters.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Fifty-Second Street

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Fifty-Second Street" by Louis Prima and His New Orleans Gang.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Playlist For August 22, 2018

The playlist for the August 22, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: After You've Gone

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "After You've Gone" by Lionel Hampton and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Limehouse Blues

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Limehouse Blues" by Ambrose and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Late 1940's View-Master Viewer With Discs

At a recent estate sale, I came across the above item.  Other than realizing it was an early View-Master viewer, and having seen one belonging to my niece just a few months ago, I did not have much information about it.  Since it came with about 25 slide discs, most of which had copyright dates around 1946, it was cool, and the price was right, I picked it up.

My research has now revealed that it is a (probably) late 1940's or early 1950's Sawyer View-Master Model C.  There is an article on Collector's Weekly relating the origin and history of the View-Master, including its contribution to the war effort during World War II. 

It appears the Bakelite Model C is relatively indestructible, so inexpensive examples can be found in perfect working order.  I have not been able to view all the discs yet, but most are scenic views of U.S. National Parks, along with an early clay-model version of Goldilocks, and a few Hopalong Cassidy discs.  I've already enjoyed having it in my collection.    

Sunrise Serenade: Billy-A-Dick

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Billy-A-Dick" by Hoagy Carmichael.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Droopy's Double Trouble

Droopy is one of those cartoon characters to admire.  A quiet, noble soul, whose courtesy and kindness to everyone ends up working out just fine for him, despite others attempts to take advantage of his good nature.  That is the case in this Tex Avery short.  From MGM and the Internet Archive, here is Droopy's Double Trouble (also starring Droopy's twin brother, Drippy).

Sunrise Serenade: Tico Tico

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Tico Tico" by the Andrews Sisters.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Black Cat

I don't know when DC introduced Catwoman as a villain, but this Black Cat comic, posted on Four Color Shadows, reveals a possible inspiration, although she is a crime fighter.  Her secret identity is glamorous movie star, Linda Turner. 

Sunrise Serenade: Dinah

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Dinah" by the Benny Goodman Quartet.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Playlist For August 15, 2018

The playlist for the August 15, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: Jack The Bear

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Jack The Bear" by Duke Ellington and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Early Chop Top

This photo on Rivet Head interested me because of the 1940's tag.  I know chopped tops were easily around by the late 1950's, but I did not realize people were doing such a severe chop as the above even in the late 1940's.

Sunrise Serenade: We Just Couldn't Say Goodbye

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "We Just Couldn't Say Goodbye" by the Boswell Sisters.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Poor Simple Simon

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Poor Simple Simon" by Anita O'Day.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Porky's Pastry Pirates

I have never seen this one.  Porky Pig operates a bakery.  A fly sits hungrily outside his window, but is afraid to go inside because of Porky's violence with a fly swatter.  Along comes a bee, who sounds a lot like Edward G. Robinson, who shows the fly how to get some of the sweeties.  From the Internet Archive, here is the 1942 Warner Bros. animated short, Porky's Pastry Pirates. 

Sunrise Serenade: King Porter Stomp

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "King Porter Stomp" by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Just Wait Until My Heart Finds Out

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Just Wait Until My Heart Finds Out" by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Playlist For August 8, 2018

The playlist for the August 8, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: Let Me Off Uptown

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Let Me Off Uptown" by Gene Krupa and His Orchestra featuring Anita O'Day on vocals.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Lindy Hop Over to Lafayette's Music Room

Swing to the music of the Memphis Knights with the RHLH at Lafayette's Music Room on Monday, August 13, 2018, starting at 6:00 p.m. 

Sunrise Serenade: Nobody's Sweetheart

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Nobody's Sweetheart" by Oscar Aleman.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Dr. Mid-Nite

A good 20 years before Marvel's Daredevil, DC had its own blind crime fighter:  Dr. Mid-Nite.  In this case, the blind Dr. McNider overcame this challenge via technology, namely - infra-red glasses that, according to the splash page here, gave him "perfect vision."  The bad guys in this story, posed on Pappy's, have a penchant for deadly toy weapons - miniature battleships and tanks, etc. 

Sunrise Serenade: School Days

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was certainly appropriate for the first day of school here in Memphis:  "School Days" by Louis Jordan.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Teachers Are People

While perusing the Tube of You, I came across this Walt Disney short featuring Goofy as an elementary school teacher.  Never having seen this cartoon before, and remembering that my kiddos start school next week, this seemed an appropriate tribute to those in the educational profession on whom I inflict- er, I mean - to whom I entrust my children. 

As you watch this short, please remember it was made at a time when several of the jokes were just that, jokes.  The thought of knives, guns and explosives in schools was so absurd as to be laughable.  Unfortunately, in the 60+ years since this cartoon was released, times have changed to the point that some of those situations are no longer so absurd.  It is not my intention to be insensitive to that fact.  On the contrary, it is my hope that eventually, we can have schools where such concerns will again be laughable.  With that in mind, please enjoy Teachers Are People. 

Sunrise Serenade: Long About Midnight

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Long About Midnight" by Louis Prima and His Gang.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Monthly Swing Dance This Saturday Night

From the great folks at the Red Hot Lindy Hop:

Saturday night swing is back August 4! Join Red Hot Lindy Hop for an hour lesson 6-7 p.m. at Rumba Room followed by a DJ'd dance of the hottest sounds of the big band era 7-9 p.m. $5 gets you in the door for the lesson and dance. Our dance ambassadors are on hand to help you with your rock step-triple step and to make sure you're up dancing! No partner or experience needed. Come dance with us and don't forget to SWING OUT!

Sunrise Serenade: Shoo-Fly Pie And Apple Pan Dowdy

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Shoo-Fly Pie And Apple Pan Dowdy" by Dinah Shore.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Playlist For August 1, 2018

The playlist for the August 1, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: Shoo Shoo Baby

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Shoo Shoo Baby" by Ella Mae Morse.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: I Got A Right To Sing The Blues

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "I Got A Right To Sing The Blues" by Cab Calloway and his Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: All The Things You Are

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "All The Things You Are" by Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: I See, I See

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "I See, I See" by the Andrews Sisters with Carmen Miranda.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: How Come?

Although reported a bit late, today's Sunrise Serenade was "How Come?" by Anita O'Day.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Playlist For July 25, 2018

The playlist for the July 25, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: Bumble Boogie

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Bumble Boogie" by Freddie Martin and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: I Got A Gal In Kalamazoo

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "I Got A Gal In Kalamazoo" by Glenn Miller and his Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: I Wonder Who Made Rhythm

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "I Wonder Who Made Rhythm" by Valaida Snow.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Falling Hare

This great Bugs Bunny cartoon has several WW2 references:  censorship, 4F, fuel ration cards, etc.  Found on the YouTube channel 8thManDVD, here is the 1943 Warner Bros. animated short, Falling Hare. 

Sunrise Serenade: Gotta Go Places And Do Things

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Gotta Go Places And Do Things" by Cab Calloway.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

WEVL's 30th Annual Blues On The Bluff This Saturday!

WEVL FM 89.9, home of the Swing Shift Shuffle, will be hosting its 30th Annual Blues on the Bluff concert this Saturday night, July 21, on the grounds of the Metal Museum overlooking the Mighty Mississippi River.  There will be craft beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks sold, as well as award-winning BBQ from the Central BBQ Food Truck.  Memphis Made Brewing will be brewing a special Blues on the Bluff® Craft Beer.  Our silent auction continues, with items from local artists and businesses, and WEVL merchandise will also be available.  There is free guarded parking.  Come enjoy the giant shady oaks, cool river breeze, smell of BBQ, fantastic music, and absolutely the best view of the Mississippi in the entire mid-south!  Advance online discounted ticket sales end midnight Friday.  Hope to see you there!

Sunrise Serenade: The Song Is Ended

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "The Song Is Ended" by the Mills Brothers.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Playlist For July 18, 2018

The playlist for the July 18, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: I'll Get By

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "I'll Get By" by Harry James and His Orchestra with Dick Haymes on vocal.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Old Mother Hubbard

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Old Mother Hubbard" by Ella Fitzgerald.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: I Heard

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "I Heard" by the Mills Brothers.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Pigs In A Polka

Here is another partial Fantasia parody from Warner Bros.  Set to the music of Johannes Brahms' Hungarian Dances, this short retells the fairy tale of the Three Little Pigs.  From the 8th Man DVD channel on YouTube, here is the 1942 cartoon, Pigs In A Polka. 

Sunrise Serenade: 47th Street Jive

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "47th Street Jive" by Andy Kirk and His Clouds of Joy.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: I Can't Get Started

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "I Can't Get Started" by Bunny Berigan and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Playlist For July 11, 2018

The playlist for the July 11, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Sunrise Serenade: Christopher Columbus

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Christopher Columbus" by the Ink Spots.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: The Honeydripper

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "The Honeydripper" by Jimmie Lunceford and His Orchestra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Cuba In 1933

Vintage Everyday posted this series of photographs taken in Cuba by Fay S. Lincoln in 1933.  Prior to the Revolution in the 1950's, Cuba was a popular holiday destination for Americans.  These pictures show an interesting contrast between the tourist Cuba and some of the economic hardships its people faced. 

Sunrise Serenade: There'll Be A Hot Time In The Town Of Berlin

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "There'll Be A Hot Time In The Town Of Berlin" by Frank Sinatra.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line.

Sunrise Serenade: Hip Hip Hooray

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Hip Hip Hooray" by the Four Vagabonds.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Playlist For July 4, 2018 - Independence Day Special!

The playlist for the July 4, 2018 broadcast of the Swing Shift Shuffle - Independence Day Special - has now been added to the playlist filing cabinet.  

Happy Fourth of July! Independence Day Special Tonight!

Happy Fourth of July!  Join me tonight for the Swing Shift Shuffle Independence Day Special!  We'll be playing great patriotic music from the Swing Era.  Tune in before the fireworks start, and please remember to be safe!

July Heats Up With LIve Music At The Lindy Hop

July starts off jumping at the First Saturday RHLH dance with live music from Jeremy Shrader's Quintessentials featuring Michelle Shrader on vocals.  Lindy Hop lesson from 6-7 PM with special guest instructor.  Music and dancing from 7-9 PM.  Cover charge is $10, with student rates available.  More info here.

Sunrise Serenade: Anytime, Anyday, Anywhere

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "Anytime, Anyday, Anywhere" by the Mills Brothers.  Enjoy the video below from YouTube.

New Comic, Old Song

I read the comics section of the newspaper first every morning.  It is a nice way to brace myself for the news.  I would like to send a shout out to Tom Batuik & Dan Davis, creators of Crankshaft, for their prominent feature of a 1930's song in today's strip.  Specifically, the character of Ralph Meckler is listening to "I Can't Get Started With You" while ordering a burger, fries and chocolate malted from a carhop, who apparently does not know what a chocolate malted is.  Years ago, the strip revealed that Ralph had a chance to play with Bunny Berigan's band, so that song is certainly appropriate. 

Sunrise Serenade: Old Man Of The Mountain

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Old Man Of The Mountain" by the Mills Brothers.  Enjoy the video from YouTube. 

Superman: Secret Agent

Being the Friday before Independence Day, I thought it would be a good time to call up the Man of Steel who fights for truth, justice and the American way - Superman.  In one of the few cartoons in which Lois Lane makes no appearance whatsoever, a beautiful blond secret agent is on the run from foreign (i.e. German) saboteurs, and Superman shows up to lend a hand when they try to stop her.  From the Internet Archive, here is the 1943 animated short, Secret Agent.

Sunrise Serenade: That's A Plenty

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "That's A Plenty" by the Andrews Sisters.  Enjoy the video from YouTube.

Sunrise Serenade: I Can't Give You Anything But Love

Today's Sunrise Serenade was "I Can't Give You Anything But Love" by the Mills Brothers.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Sunrise Serenade: Royal Garden Blues

This morning's Sunrise Serenade was "Royal Garden Blues" by Johnny Mercer and the Skylarks.  Click on the song title to listen courtesy of Jazz On Line. 

Prest-O Change-O

This short features the same two dogs that appeared in another cartoon with a similar story.  In the previous short, the dogs - one large and one small - enter a "Home of Tomorrow," that features all sorts of fancy futuristic, automatic gadgets that soon cause the curious canines some trouble.  In this version, our furry friends escape the dog catcher by slipping into the house of a magician - "Sham-Fu."  Although the magician himself never shows up, his pet rabbit (a Bugs Bunny prototype) and an Indian Rope Trick give the puzzled pooches as bad a time as the futuristic house did.  From the 8th Man Video channel on YouTube, here is the 1938 short, Prest-O Change-O.