Red Norvo

Red Norvo (31 March 1908- 6 April 1999) was one of jazz's early vibraphonists. He helped establish the xylophone and later the vibraphone as viable jazz instruments.

Norvo was born Kenneth Norville in Beardsto

Red Norvo (31 March 1908- 6 April 1999) was one of jazz's early vibraphonists. He helped establish the xylophone and later the vibraphone as viable jazz instruments.

Norvo was born Kenneth Norville in Beardstown, Illinois. The story goes that he sold his pet pony to help pay for his first marimba. Norvo's career began in Chicago with a band called "The Collegians", in 1925. He played with many other bands, including an all-marimba band on the vaudeville circuit, and the bands of Paul Whiteman, Benny Goodman, Charlie Barnet, and Woody Herman. Norvo recorded with Mildred Bailey (his wife), Billie Holiday and Frank Sinatra, among others. Together, Red and Mildred were known as "Mr. and Mrs. Swing." He also appeared in the film Screaming Mimi (1958), playing himself.