It’s the late 1930’s and Herb Jeffries, a popular singer in several big bands, saddles up to become the first African American singing cowboy. Dubbed “The Bronze Buckaroo,” Jeffries starred in several low-budget Westerns, like Harlem Rides the Range, and Two Gun Man from Harlem.
Every Saturday, children of all skin colors packed afternoon matinees, and watched the adventures of such white Western stars as Tex Ritter and Gene Autry. If the cast did include people of color, the roles were stereotypes and caricatures. Children of color needed heroes they could identify with, Jeffries understood. They needed characters who went through life with dignity and humanity.
In 1937, Jeffries financed and starred in Harlem of the Prairie, making history with the first talking, singing Black cowboy picture with an all-Black cast. Over two years, he made four movies, starring as Bob Blake, the lonesome hero who rides into town, solves problems with his fists, quick wits, and six-guns. And while winning the heart of the rancher’s daughter, he finds time to sing a ballad or two.
Jeffries hung up his spurs in 1939 to join Duke Ellington’s Blanton-Webster Orchestra. Over his long career he recorded with the Erskine Tate band, Earl Hines, Sidney Bechet, and the all-male orchestra led by Blanche Calloway. His rich, silky baritone kept him on the bandstand for decades. And his pioneering movies kept him signing autographs his entire life.
“Soundtrack to the Struggle” is hosted by Hollis Monroe. Produced by Ron Adkins. Executive Producer is Dennis Green.
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