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): Abe Burrows • Brianne Theisen-Eaton • Casper Van Dien • Celia Johnson • Chas Chandler • DJ Lethal • John Booth (motor racing) • John Cooper (hurdler) • John Hull (merchant) • Lenore Blum • Lizmark • Lonnie Brooks • Mariano Ignacio Prado • Michael Moorcock • Mille Petrozza • Ramsey Clark • Roméo LeBlanc

Born in the same month (December 1897): Albert Aalbers • Alfredo Bracchi • Drew Pearson (journalist) • Gershom Scholem • Hermione Gingold • Ivan Bagramyan • Kurt Schuschnigg • Margaret Chase Smith • Nunnally Johnson • Robert Redfield • Ronald Skirth • Ville Pörhölä • Väinö Sipilä • William Gropper