1940 local bands of African Americans working in New Orleans

A partial list based on a survey of the Louisiana Weekly

Don Albert & his Famous Orchestra

Andrew Anderson’s Pelican State Orchestra

Paul Barbarin Orchestra

Boots & His Buddies

Henry Casanave’s Buddies

Sidney Cato’s Moonlight Serenaders

Papa Celestin’s Orchestra / Tuxedo Orchestra

Cool Breezes

Harold Dejan’s Orchestra

Sydney Desvigne’s Orchestra / Southern Syncopators /  Sydney’s Moonlight Serenaders

Henry Horton’s Orchestra / Rhythm Club Orchestra

Avery / Kid Howard’s Orchestra

Thomas Jefferson & his Savoy 8

Clyde Kerr’s Orchestra / Tick Tock Orchestra

Thomy Lafon band, Prof Valmore Victor, director

Leary’s Society Syncopators

Louisiana Swing Masters

Bill Phillip’s Rhythm Aces

Walter “Fats” Pichon’s Orchestra

Smilin’ Joe Pleasant / Little Joe & Flashy Clouds of Rhythm

Don Raymond’s Orchestra

Joe Robichaux’s Orchestra

Snow Hill Harmony Syncopators

Sextette Swing Band

Tea Room Swingsters

[Valmore] Victor’s Orchestra / Music Masters

George Williams’ Orchestra / Swingsters

 

–December 3, 2023