Miller's discography is extensive and varied, spanning from his early days as a sideman and arranger for other bands, to his own orchestra's recordings, to his posthumous releases and compilations. His music has been reissued and remastered in various formats and quality over the years, including vinyl, cassette, CD, and digital downloads. This article will provide an overview of his discography, focusing on the albums that were released in 320 kbps MP3 format.
The Early Years (1935-1937)
Before forming his own orchestra, Miller worked as a trombonist and arranger for several bands, including Ben Pollack, Red Nichols, Ray Noble, and the Dorsey Brothers. He also recorded some sessions under his own name or with small groups. Some of these recordings were later compiled and released as albums in the MP3 format. Some examples are:
Glenn Miller And His Orchestra - The Complete Early Recordings (1935-1938): This album contains 40 tracks that Miller recorded with various bands and vocalists, such as Benny Goodman, Mildred Bailey, Bing Crosby, and Alice Faye. It was released in 2006 by Naxos Jazz Legends.
Glenn Miller - The Birth Of A Band Vol. 1 & 2: These two albums feature 24 tracks each that Miller recorded with his first orchestra in 1937. The band included future stars such as Charlie Spivak, Hal McIntyre, Chummy MacGregor, and Marion Hutton. The albums were released in 2000 by Avid Entertainment.
Glenn Miller - The Complete Glenn Miller And His Orchestra Vol. 1 (1938-1939): This album covers the first year of Miller's orchestra, when they were still struggling to find their sound and style. It includes 23 tracks that showcase their early repertoire of swing standards, novelty tunes, and ballads. It was released in 1991 by Bluebird/RCA.
The Peak Years (1938-1942)
This period marks the height of Miller's popularity and success. His orchestra developed a distinctive sound based on a clarinet-led saxophone section and a tight rhythm section. They recorded many hit songs that became classics of the swing era, such as "In the Mood", "Moonlight Serenade", "Chattanooga Choo Choo", and "Tuxedo Junction". They also appeared in several movies and radio shows, reaching a wide audience across the country. Some of the albums that capture this period are:
Glenn Miller - The Essential Glenn Miller: This album is a compilation of 38 tracks that represent the best of Miller's orchestra from 1938 to 1942. It includes their most famous songs as well as some lesser-known gems. It was released in 1995 by Bluebird/RCA.
Glenn Miller - The Complete Glenn Miller And His Orchestra Vol. 2-13 (1939-1942): These albums are part of a series that covers the entire output of Miller's orchestra during their peak years. They contain all the studio recordings that they made for RCA Victor, as well as some live performances and alternate takes. They were released between 1991 and 2006 by Bluebird/RCA.
Glenn Miller - In The Digital Mood: This album is a tribute to Miller's music by the Glenn Miller Orchestra led by Larry O'Brien. It features 12 tracks that were digitally recorded and arranged in a modern style, while preserving the original melodies and harmonies. It was released in 1983 by GRP Records.
The Army Air Force Years (1942-1944)
In 1942, Miller disbanded his orchestra and joined the Army Air Force as a captain. He formed a new band that consisted of military personnel and some of his former musicians. He also recruited singers such as Johnny Desmond, Ray McKinley, and the Crew Chiefs. The band performed for the troops in the US and overseas, as well as for radio broadcasts and recordings. Some of the albums that document this period are:
Glenn Miller - The Lost Recordings: This album contains 50 tracks that Miller and his Army Air Force Band recorded in England in 1944, shortly before his disappearance. They include some of his old hits, as well as new songs and arrangements. The recordings were discovered in 1985 and restored by RCA. The album was released in 1995 by BMG.
Glenn Miller - The Complete Glenn Miller Army Air Force Band Recordings Vol. 1-9 (1943-1944): These albums are part of a series that covers the entire output of Miller's Army Air Force Band. They contain all the recordings that they made for radio broadcasts, V-Discs, and film soundtracks, as well as some live performances and rehearsals. They were released between 2000 and 2006 by Collectors' Choice Music.
Glenn Miller - The Secret Broadcasts: This album features 44 tracks that Miller and his Army Air Force Band recorded for secret radio broadcasts to the German-occupied Europe in 1944. They include some propaganda messages, as well as music and comedy sketches. The recordings were discovered in 1989 and restored by RCA. The album was released in 1996 by BMG.
The Legacy Years (1945-present)
After Miller's disappearance, his music continued to be popular and influential. His orchestra was reformed by Tex Beneke, one of his former saxophonists and singers, who led it until 1950. Since then, several other leaders have taken over the band, keeping Miller's legacy alive. His recordings have also been reissued and remixed in various formats and quality over the years, attracting new generations of fans. Some of the albums that reflect this period are:
Glenn Miller - The Unforgettable Glenn Miller: This album is a compilation of 60 tracks that span Miller's entire career, from his early recordings to his Army Air Force Band. It includes some rare and unreleased material, as well as some interviews and testimonials. It was released in 1977 by Reader's Digest.
Glenn Miller - The Popular Recordings (1938-1942): This album is a remastered version of Miller's most popular recordings from his peak years. It features 48 tracks that have been enhanced with digital technology, improving their sound quality and clarity. It was released in 1989 by Bluebird/RCA.
Glenn Miller - In The Mood...The Definitive Glenn Miller Collection: This album is a collection of 40 tracks that showcase Miller's music in various styles and genres, such as jazz, swing, big band, pop, rock, and disco. It includes some remixes and mash-ups by contemporary artists, such as Jive Bunny and The Mastermixers, Swing Republic, and Glenn Miller vs DJ Deekline & Ed Solo. It was released in 2006 by Sony BMG.
Glenn Miller's discography is a testament to his musical genius and lasting impact on the history of American popular music. His music has transcended time and space, reaching millions of listeners around the world and across generations. His discography is also a reflection of the technological advancements and innovations that have shaped the music industry over the decades, from vinyl to digital formats.
For more information on Glenn Miller's discography, please visit [Wikipedia], [Discogs], or [Discography of American Historical Recordings].
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