Putney Dandridge

Louis "Putney" Dandridge (January 13, 1902 – February 15, 1946) was an American jazz pianist and singer.

Career Born in Richmond, Virginia, United States, In February 1931, Dandridge appeared in the cast of the musical revue Heatin' Up Harlem, starring Adelaide Hall at the Lafayette Theatre, Harlem. In the 1932 American film Harlem Is Heaven, Dandridge, on the piano and reciting lyrics in a "speak set", accompanies Robinson as the dancer sings "Is You Is Or Is You Ain't".

After touring in Illinois and the Great Lakes region, Dandridge settled in Cleveland, Ohio, forming a band with guitarist Lonnie Johnson. This period lasted until 1934, when he attempted to perform as a solo act.

Discography Putney Dandridge (Timeless, 1994)