The History of the Twentieth Century 425 Eight to the Bar
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Nov 16, 2025 Discover how boogie-woogie became America’s soundtrack during wartime, with Glenn Miller's unique sound and hits like 'In the Mood.' Explore the saxophone's journey from invention to jazz integration, and how the Andrews Sisters dazzled troops with their catchy tunes. Delve into wartime challenges like shellac rationing and the creation of V-discs for soldiers. Uncover the story behind 'Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy' and Glenn Miller's mysterious disappearance in 1944, highlighting the enduring legacy of these musical icons.
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Miller's Signature Sax-Clarinet Blend
- Glenn Miller created a distinctive sound by doubling a clarinet with a saxophone and using three saxes in close harmony.
- That arrangement set his band apart and drove rapid popular success.
Miller Enlisted At Career Peak
- In September 1942, Glenn Miller, at the peak of his career, persuaded the Army to let him enlist despite age and vision issues.
- He joined to lead an Army Air Forces band that played modern music for troops.
V-Discs Solved Wartime Music Problems
- The U.S. Army produced V-discs on vinyl to distribute music to troops, bypassing the AFM strike and shellac rationing.
- V-discs preserved performances and used superior vinyl that later influenced commercial records.