Bob Zurke
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Biography
Bob Zurke, born Boguslaw Albert Zukowski on January 17, 1912 in Hamtramck, Michigan, was an American jazz pianist. By age 16, he began his professional career under the name Bob Zurke, recording with Thelma Terry's group and working as a copyist for Jean Goldkette's booking agency. In 1937, Bob Zurke joined Bob Crosby's band, contributing arrangements and featured solos, including "Honky Tonk Train Blues", which became a hit. He won the piano category in Down Beat's Reader's Poll in 1938. In 1939, Bob Zurke formed his own band, Bob Zurke and his Delta Rhythm Orchestra, recording original compositions like "Hobson Street Blues" and "Tom Cat on the Keys". Despite initial success, the band disbanded due to Bob Zurke's personal issues. He later settled in Los Angeles and performed at the Hangover Club until his death on February 16, 1944, from complications of pneumonia aggravated by alcohol poisoning.
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