Music · 1945
Swinging Victory and the Dawn of Bebop
As World War II drew to a close, American big bands soundtracked the long-awaited return of soldiers with emotional homecoming anthems. Meanwhile, revolutionary modern jazz exploded in Harlem club sessions and classical composers captured the solemn triumph of peace.
- March 1945 | Capitol Records | Album
The King Cole Trio
The Nat King Cole Trio's self-titled release becomes the very first number-one album on Billboard's newly created Best-Selling Popular Record Albums chart.
- March 1945 | Les Brown ft. Doris Day | Single
Sentimental Journey
Doris Day's comforting vocals turn this big band tune into the unofficial homecoming anthem for millions of American troops returning from World War II.
- June 7, 1945 | Benjamin Britten | Opera
Peter Grimes Premiere
Benjamin Britten's masterpiece premieres at London's Sadler's Wells Theatre, marking a triumphant postwar resurgence for British opera.
- November 26, 1945 | Charlie Parker | Jazz
Koko Savoy Recording Session
Charlie Parker records 'Koko' with Dizzy Gillespie and Max Roach, delivering a groundbreaking virtuosic session that officially heralds the bebop era.
- January 1945 | The Andrews Sisters | Single
Rum and Coca-Cola
The Andrews Sisters score a massive, chart-topping hit with a catchy calypso tune that brings Caribbean rhythms into mainstream American pop.
- October 1945 | Harry James | Single
It's Been a Long, Long Time
Featuring poignant vocals by Kitty Kallen, this gentle song perfectly captures the sweet emotion of reunions as soldiers return home.
- May 1945 | Aaron Copland | Classical
Pulitzer Prize for Appalachian Spring
Aaron Copland is awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music for his evocative orchestral score commissioned for choreographer Martha Graham.
- August 1945 | Perry Como | Single
Till the End of Time
Adapted from Chopin's Polonaise in A-flat major, Perry Como's smooth vocal ballad becomes a defining smash hit of the late-1940s crooner era.
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