Cab Calloway Performing “The Jumpin’ Jive”

August 17, 2010

A couple people have sent me this amazing video of Cab Calloway performing “The Jumpin’ Jive” in the film Stormy Weather (1943).  If the Hi De Ho Man isn’t enough for you, the dancing, by the Nicholas Brothers, will explode your mind.  And all performed in proper evening wear.

I love the way these pants move – fabrics were much heavier, on the whole, in days of yore, and the drape that comes from the combination of those fabrics, high waists, and well-placed pleats and cuffs is spectacular.

I’d also heartily recommend that you check out Fayard Nicholas watching and commenting on the video, which you can check out here.