Biography
Hunter's Serenaders was a pioneering jazz and dance band led by Lloyd Hunter, an influential African American trumpeter and bandleader from North Omaha, Nebraska. Formed in the late 1920s, the group became one of the most prominent territory bands in the Midwest, performing extensively throughout Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri. Their energetic performances and polished arrangements made them a staple at dances, clubs, and theaters during the swing era. In 1931, Lloyd Hunter's Serenaders became the first Omaha-based band to record, marking a significant milestone for the region's music scene.[6][7]
The band's style blended elements of early jazz, ragtime, and swing, reflecting the evolving tastes of American popular music in the pre-war years. Lloyd Hunter's leadership and musical direction attracted talented musicians, some of whom would go on to achieve national recognition. Despite the challenges of the Great Depression and the racial barriers of the time, Hunter's Serenaders maintained a strong regional presence and contributed to the development of jazz in the Midwest. Their legacy is remembered as a vital link in the history of American jazz, particularly for their role in elevating the profile of African American musicians from Nebraska and the surrounding states.[4][5][6]
Fun Facts
- Lloyd Hunter's Serenaders was the first Omaha-based band to make a commercial recording, cutting 'Sensational Mood' in 1931.[6]
- The band was a key launching pad for several musicians who later became prominent in the national jazz scene, including Preston Love and Anna Mae Winburn.
- Hunter's Serenaders toured extensively throughout the Midwest, often traveling in their own bus, which was unusual for African American bands at the time.
- Despite their regional fame, only a handful of recordings by the band survive, making their music highly sought after by collectors.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Local Omaha jazz musicians - Lloyd Hunter was influenced by earlier local bandleaders and musicians in Omaha's vibrant African American music community, which shaped his approach to bandleading and arranging. (Local performances and collaborations in the 1920s) [1920s]
Key Collaborators
- Preston Love - Saxophonist Preston Love played with Hunter's Serenaders before launching his own successful career. (Live performances and tours with the band) [1930s]
- Anna Mae Winburn - Vocalist Anna Mae Winburn performed with the Serenaders before leading the International Sweethearts of Rhythm. (Live performances with the band) [1930s]
Artists Influenced
- Preston Love - Hunter's mentorship and band experience helped launch Love's career as a prominent saxophonist and bandleader. (Preston Love's later recordings and band leadership) [1940s-1970s]
- Anna Mae Winburn - Her time with Hunter's Serenaders influenced her leadership and musical style with the International Sweethearts of Rhythm. (Recordings and performances with the International Sweethearts of Rhythm) [1940s]
Connection Network
Discography
Top Tracks
- Sensational Mood (What Kind of Rhythm Is That? - Territory Bands 1927-31)
- Dreaming 'Bout My Man (What Kind of Rhythm Is That? - Territory Bands 1927-31)
- Sensational Mood (Hot Flashes - Rare High Quality Short Lived Bands)
- Dreaming 'Bout My Man (Hot Flashes - Rare High Quality Short Lived Bands)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
HUNTER'S SERENADERS has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 22, 2025 | 10:38 | DREAMING 'BOUT MY MANfrom T KIND OF RHYTHM IS THAT? | Traditional Jazzw/ Tom Saunders |