Cuba Austin

Cuba Austin—an American jazz drummer—was active in the early decades of the 20th century. Hailing from Charleston, West Virginia, he gained prominence as a member of William McKinney's group, McKinney's Cotton Pickers. Austin's drumming skills led him to become a significant influence on future drummers, including Gene Krupa. He was among the pioneers of incorporating the hi-hat cymbals into hot and swing jazz.

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  Big band

  Great Depression cut short the extraordinary dance life of McKinney’s Cotton Pickers

  Since the very start of the prohibition during the Roaring Twenties, many Americans sought refuge in entertainment clubs...