Fletcher Henderson Orchestra Becomes Pioneering Black Dance Band in New York

In 1923, Fletcher Henderson—who had served as Black Swan Records' recording director—established his own orchestra and began residency at the Roseland Ballroom in New York. Henderson's was the first Black dance band to hold a major New York ballroom residency, and his arrangements established a template for big band jazz. Louis Armstrong joined the band in 1924, transforming its sound and American jazz with it.