Cab Calloway, also known as the “Hi-De-Ho” man, was one of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century. His energetic performances and signature scat singing style made him a household name in the 1930s and 1940s. Calloway’s music continues to inspire and entertain audiences today, and his impact on the music world cannot be overstated.
In this article, we will explore the 10 best Cab Calloway songs of all time. From his early recordings with the Missourians to his big band hits with the Cab Calloway Orchestra, these songs showcase the breadth and depth of Calloway’s talent. We will examine the historical and cultural significance of each song, as well as the musical techniques that made Calloway such a unique and captivating performer. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Calloway’s music or a newcomer to his sound, this list is sure to provide a memorable and entertaining journey through the life and legacy of one of jazz’s greatest icons.
1. Minnie the Moocher
“Minnie the Moocher” is perhaps Cab Calloway’s most famous song, and it remains an enduring classic of the jazz and swing eras. The song tells the story of Minnie, a young woman who lives a life of poverty and desperation in the midst of the Great Depression. Despite her hardships, Minnie remains upbeat and determined to make the most of her circumstances. The song’s catchy chorus, which features Calloway’s signature scat singing, has become an iconic part of American music history, and the song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the timelessness of Calloway’s music. “Minnie the Moocher” is a masterclass in storytelling, musicianship, and performance, and it is sure to delight music fans of all ages and backgrounds.
2. Reefer Man
“Reefer Man” is a lively and upbeat jazz song by Cab Calloway, released in 1932. The song features Calloway’s distinct vocals and the upbeat jazz rhythms that made him famous during the swing era. The lyrics of the song are focused on the subject of marijuana, which was still legal at the time, and describe the antics of a character known as the Reefer Man. Calloway’s energetic performance and catchy lyrics made “Reefer Man” a popular song during its time, and it has since become a classic of early jazz music. The song’s playful attitude towards marijuana reflects the cultural attitudes of the time, and its enduring popularity speaks to the continued fascination with the music of the swing era.
3. Everybody Eats When They Come to My House
“Everybody Eats When They Come to My House” is a lively and infectious tune that showcases Cab Calloway’s talent for combining jazz and swing with humorous lyrics and catchy rhythms. The song’s lyrics celebrate the joys of hospitality and the pleasures of sharing a meal with friends and family. Calloway’s unique vocal style and playful scat singing add to the song’s upbeat and festive mood, and the infectious melody is sure to get listeners tapping their toes and singing along. “Everybody Eats When They Come to My House” is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of joy and camaraderie that is at the heart of so much great jazz and swing music. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a pick-me-up, this song is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and get your feet moving.
4. St. James Infirmary
“St. James Infirmary” is a classic jazz standard that has been performed and recorded by numerous artists, but perhaps none more famous than Cab Calloway. The song tells the story of a man who visits the St. James Infirmary to mourn the loss of his lover. Calloway’s version of the song features his distinctive vocals, backed by a melancholy trumpet melody and a slow, mournful tempo that perfectly captures the somber mood of the lyrics. The song has become a staple of the jazz repertoire, and Calloway’s rendition remains one of the most celebrated interpretations. The haunting melody and powerful lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, making “St. James Infirmary” a timeless classic in the history of jazz music.
5. Minnie the Moocher (Theme Song)
“Minnie the Moocher” is perhaps the most famous song by Cab Calloway, and is considered a defining song of the swing era. The song tells the story of a woman named Minnie, who mooches off of others to survive. Calloway’s energetic vocals and the swinging jazz rhythms, featuring a lively horn section, make the song an instant classic. The song’s catchy refrain, “Hi-dee hi-dee hi-dee hi!” has become synonymous with the jazz age, and the song’s lyrics capture the playful and carefree spirit of the era. “Minnie the Moocher” has been covered and sampled by countless artists, but Calloway’s original version remains the definitive interpretation. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to its status as a cultural touchstone, and to Calloway’s enduring legacy as one of the most important figures in the history of jazz music.
6. The Scat Song
“The Scat Song” is a classic Cab Calloway tune that showcases his signature scat singing style and his exceptional skills as a jazz vocalist. The song is a masterclass in improvisation, with Calloway effortlessly weaving in and out of complex vocal riffs and intricate rhythms. The song’s lyrics are nonsensical and playful, but they serve as a showcase for Calloway’s incredible vocal range and dexterity. The song is a true classic of the jazz and swing era, and it remains a favorite of music lovers around the world. “The Scat Song” is a testament to Calloway’s enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and influential musicians of the 20th century, and it is sure to delight listeners with its infectious rhythm and timeless sense of fun.
7. Hi De Ho Man
“Hi De Ho Man” is a lively and upbeat jazz song by Cab Calloway, originally released in 1934. The song features Calloway’s distinctive vocals, backed by a swinging big band, complete with brass section and saxophones. The lyrics of the song are a celebration of the Hi De Ho Man, a fictional character created by Calloway, who was known for his energetic dance moves and joyful spirit. Calloway’s charisma and showmanship are on full display in this song, which is a classic example of the exuberant and infectious sound of swing era jazz. “Hi De Ho Man” has since become one of Calloway’s most enduring and beloved songs, and remains a cherished part of the jazz canon. The song’s joyful energy and catchy melody make it an instant mood-lifter, and a testament to the enduring power of Calloway’s music.
8. The Jumpin’ Jive
“The Jumpin’ Jive” is a high-energy and infectious tune that perfectly captures the spirit of swing and jazz music in the 1930s and 1940s. The song features Cab Calloway’s signature scat singing, as well as his exceptional skills as a bandleader and showman. The song’s driving rhythm and catchy melody are guaranteed to get listeners on their feet and dancing along, and the song’s upbeat and playful lyrics celebrate the joy and freedom of swing dancing. “The Jumpin’ Jive” is a true classic of the swing era, and it remains a favorite of music lovers around the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Calloway’s music or a newcomer to the swing scene, this song is sure to get you grooving and jiving to the beat.
9. The Calloway Boogie
“The Calloway Boogie” is an upbeat and lively jazz song by Cab Calloway, originally released in 1947. The song features Calloway’s distinctive vocals, backed by a swinging big band that is full of energy and excitement. The lyrics of the song describe the thrill of dancing to the boogie-woogie beat, and Calloway’s charismatic performance perfectly captures the joy and exuberance of the era. The song’s catchy melody and infectious rhythm have made it a favorite of jazz enthusiasts for decades, and its enduring popularity speaks to the timeless appeal of Calloway’s music. “The Calloway Boogie” is a classic example of the swing era sound, and remains a cherished part of the jazz canon. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the genre, this song is sure to get you up and dancing.
10. Jitter Bug
“Jitter Bug” is a classic Cab Calloway tune that perfectly captures the spirit of swing and jitterbug dancing in the 1930s and 1940s. The song features Calloway’s signature scat singing and his exceptional skills as a bandleader and performer, and the song’s driving rhythm and catchy melody are guaranteed to get listeners on their feet and dancing along. The song’s playful and humorous lyrics celebrate the joys of jitterbug dancing, with Calloway urging his listeners to “cut a rug” and “shake it all around.” “Jitter Bug” is a true classic of the swing era, and it remains a favorite of music lovers around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned swing dancer or just looking for a fun and upbeat tune to get you moving, this song is sure to get you jitterbugging to the beat.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
