WWII and All Female Groups
During WWII many men were drafted into the military leading to more opportunities for women in jazz music. Females found employment during this time being used to fill the spaces in all male bands. All female jazz groups became prevalent. Initially these groups were racially separate. This would later change.
International Sweethearts of Rhythm
Sweethearts of Rhythm, an all female swing band made their debut at the Howard Theater. This group would later go on to tour through the United States and Europe The International Sweethearts of Rhythm would be the first integrated all female band. The group faced much scrutiny as it went against “racial custom and law”. (Black Past, 2011, para 1). Female groups took a patriotic approach and became well-liked USO entertainers. Popularity for all female groups also became popular, as troops would often request the women to travel and perform for them. The International Sweethearts of Rhythm became a highly requested USO group.
During WWII many men were drafted into the military leading to more opportunities for women in jazz music. Females found employment during this time being used to fill the spaces in all male bands. All female jazz groups became prevalent. Initially these groups were racially separate. This would later change.
International Sweethearts of Rhythm
Sweethearts of Rhythm, an all female swing band made their debut at the Howard Theater. This group would later go on to tour through the United States and Europe The International Sweethearts of Rhythm would be the first integrated all female band. The group faced much scrutiny as it went against “racial custom and law”. (Black Past, 2011, para 1). Female groups took a patriotic approach and became well-liked USO entertainers. Popularity for all female groups also became popular, as troops would often request the women to travel and perform for them. The International Sweethearts of Rhythm became a highly requested USO group.