Frederic Efrem Rich (January 31, 1898 – September 8, 1956) was a Polish-born American bandleader and composer who was active from the 1920s to the 1950s. Among the musicians in his band were the Dorsey Brothers, Joe Venuti, Bunny Berigan, and Benny Goodman. In the early 1930s, Elmer Feldkamp was one of his vocalists.

Early life

Rich was born in Warsaw, Poland.

Career

Rich was a pianist and formed his band in the early-1920s.

Most of Rich's records are typical dance fare of the era. However, during the period between November 1929 and March 1931, there was a scattering of hot jazz versions of popular tunes, with notable solos by Bunny Berigan, Tommy Dorsey, Jimmy Dorsey, Joe Venuti, and Eddie Lang. These celebrated recordings include "A Peach of a Pair" (October 29, 1930), "I Got Rhythm" (October 29, 1930), "Cheerful Little Earful" (November 19, 1930), and "I'm Tickled Pink with a Blue-Eyed Baby" (November 19, 1930).

Nominations

  • 1943 - Nominated for Academy Award for Original Music Score (Scoring of a Musical Picture) for Stage Door Canteen
  • 1944 - Nominated for Academy Award for Original Music Score (Scoring of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture) for Jack London

References

  • Fred Rich recordings at the Discography of American Historical Recordings.