Legendary saxophonist, conductor, songwriter, and composer, renowned for his iconic compositions such as "I'm Glad There Is You" and "Contrasts", which served as his theme. With a humble beginning in public schools, he honed his craft as a cornet student of his father.
Throughout the 1920s, he made a name for himself as a saxophonist in various orchestras, including those of the illustrious Paul Whiteman and Red Nichols, as well as the California Ramblers. He then embarked on a collaborative venture with his brother, Tommy Dorsey, forming an orchestra that lasted from 1933 to 1935.
After a brief hiatus, he led his own orchestra, only to rejoin Tommy's orchestra in 1953 and ultimately take the reins upon his brother's passing. Throughout his illustrious career, he made numerous records that showcased his exceptional talent.
As a member of the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) since 1941, he collaborated with an array of renowned musicians, including Larry Clinton, Paul Mertz, and James Van Heusen. His impressive repertoire includes popular songs and instrumental compositions such as "Oodles of Noodles", "John Silver", "Beebe", "Duskin Upper Sandusky", "Waddlin' at the Waldorf", "It's the Dreamer In Me", and "Two Again".