Jazz

In 1917, a group of musicians called the Original Dixieland Jazz Band recorded an unexpected smash hit. It marked the beginning of the jazz age.

1917-1924: As the roaring 1920s continued, so did people's desire for jazz. It was a period which saw Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and Paul Whiteman rise to stardom.

1924-1929: Jazz soloists and singers took centre stage in this period. Find out how Bessie Smith's songs helped black entrepreneurs create a new recording industry.

1929-1934: During the great depression, jazz was called upon to lift the spirits of a battered America. It was a period which bounced back with the Lindy Hop and the start of swing.

Big-band swing dominates; Benny Goodman integrates his bands; the Savoy Ballroom attracts dancers, both black and white; Billie Holiday.

Coleman Hawkins; Lester Young; Count Basie; Mary Lou Williams; Ella Fitzgerald; jazz at Carnegie Hall.