Love Records USA: Music Titles/Samples

Originally a hit for the Benny Goodman Band in 1938, the more memorable early version was that of pianist Earl "Fatha" Hines recorded in 1941. However, although oft recorded, it was the 1958 arrangement by the Alan Hartwell Big Band featuring percussionist COZY COLE that became a world hit on the best-seller charts in 81 countries! It is this version that is most often played by contemporary musical aggregations, and which was used for a Radio City Music Hall production and the broadway show "Contact".

Fundamentally written as a instrumental piece, Cozy Cole and Savina Hartwell wrote lyrics for it and also recorded a vocal duet which was on the best-seller charts in 1958.

Topsy co-writer EDDIE DURHAM'S Bio:

Texas born Eddie Durham (August 19, 1906) invented, amplified and played electric guitar and trombone. He started out with The Durham Brothers Orchestra and The Oklahoma Blue Devils, his magic as a musician, arranger and composer provided the pedestal of compositions and arrangements imperative to the survival of such big band leaders. He wrote and/or arranged for Bennie Moten, Count Basie, Jimmie Lunceford, Harry James, Artie Shaw, Andy Kirk, Jan Savitt, Willie Bryant, The Harlem Blues & Jazz Band, The International Sweethearts of Rhythm, Billie Holiday and Glenn Miller. Durham's 'amplifed guitar' recording predate the debut of Charlie Christian by one year, whom Durham mentored.

For John Hammond, Eddie recorded the Kansas City Five sessions featuring the electric guitar. He won the American Poll for his guitar solo on "Honey Keep Your Mind on Me" (Lunceford); he is inducted into both the NARAS and American Jazz Hall of Fame. Durham appeared in films "Born to Swing" and "Last of the Blue Devils". His compositions include Topsy (co-written with Edgar Battle), Good Morning Blues, Swingin the Blues, Sent for You Yesterday (co-written with Basie), I Don't Want to Set the World on Fire, Lafayette, Wham! Re Bop Boom Bam, Sliphorn Jive, Luncefords Special, Glenn Island Special, Johns Idea, Magic Carpet (and uncredited for Motens Swing and One O'Clock Jump). Durham's Arrangements include Glenn Miller's Bluebird recording of "In The Mood".