- He was a close friend of jazz singer Sarah Vaughan.
- Singer, trumpeter and valve trombonist. First came to note with the band of Earl 'Fatha' Hines in the 1930's. Formed his own bebop-oriented band in 1943 on the advice of Budd Johnson. Most recordings the band made were of ballads, sung by Eckstine in his trademark deep baritone voice.
- Inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame in 1985.
- He was awarded a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Recording at 6638 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California.
- Went on to record for Motown and Stax records in the 1960's.
- Father: William Clarence Eckstein; Mother : Charlotte Smith.
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