The Benny Goodman Story The Benny Goodman Story The Benny Goodman Story is a biographical film starring Steve Allen and Donna Reed, directed by Valentine Davies and released by Universal-International in 1956. The film is based on the life of famed clarinetist Benny Goodman, who recorded most of the clarinet solos used in the film. The film captures several major moments in Goodman's life but it has been described as less than accurate in details. Goodman's Jewish background is mentioned only implicitly, despite its playing a part in his artistic and personal endeavors for decades. In one scene, where his mother tries to talk
Black Benny Black Benny Black Benny Williams (c. 1890 – 1924) was a New Orleans-based bass drummer of legendary status who played in brass bands in the early decades of the 20th century. He was mentioned by many New Orleans musicians of the era but he left no recordings. Black Benny was born and died in New Orleans. He grew up in a rough poor African-American neighborhood in the Third Ward of New Orleans known as "The Battleground". He played with such notable brass bands as the Onward, Camelia, and the Tuxedo Brass Band as well as with such leaders as Kid