Fletcher Henderson

James Fletcher Hamilton Henderson was an American pianist, bandleader, arranger and composer, important in the development of big band jazz and swing music. He was one of the most prolific black musical arrangers and, along with Duke Ellington, is considered one of the most influential arrangers and bandleaders in jazz history. Henderson's influence was vast. He helped bridge the gap between the Dixieland and the swing eras. He was often known as "Smack" Henderson.

18 December 1897

Born on the same birth day (18 December): Ali Curtis • Benjamin O. Davis Jr. • Bridgit Mendler • Christopher Polhem • Crispian Steele-Perkins • François Hamelin • Joel Hirschhorn • Kazuhide Uekusa • Lenore Blum • Lionel Monckton • Thomas Lam

Born in the same month (December 1897): Drew Pearson (journalist) • Gershom Scholem • Hermione Gingold • Rewi Alley • Ville Pörhölä