The Japanese Sandman was recorded March 1928 in New York City on the
Pathe and Perfect labels. Annette provides a short vocal refrain for
Willard Robison's Deep River Orchestra. Annette loved working with
Robison and it comes through in this song as well as 3 other Robison
uploads-Smiles, Speedy Boy, and Ain't No Man Worth the Salt of My Tears.
Annette had been providing the vocal refrains for many of Pathe and
Columbia's dance bands since they didn't have girl singers until 1932
when Paul Whiteman hired Mildred Bailey and her success paved the way
for many "Big Band Gals" to follow. In all, Annette made 24 sides as a
dance band singer starting with the Original Memphis 5 in 1927, then Lou
Gold, Ben Selvin, Sam Lanin, Frank Ferera and the Instrumental Stars
(Eddie Lang, Adrian Rollini, Vic Berton and Joe Venuti). She especially
loved working with Eddie Lang whom she called a great musician and a
great gentleman. She hated working with Ferera whom she called a
"bottom pincher". For orchestras that recorded on the Columbia label
and its sub labels, Annette acted as the "girl singer" which was a must
for every reputable orchestra in the late 20s and 30s. She was never a
girl singer outside the studio although any big band leader would have
given their right arm to have had her in their band.
Annette was a much sought after radio personality. In addition to the
show mentioned, she appeared for Van Huesen, Maxwell House Coffee, Camel Cigarettes, Coca Cola, Chevrolet, Rexall
Drug Stores, Norge Appliances, and De Soto Automobiles.
Annette Hanshaw ~ 1928 ~ The Japanese Sandman ~ Robison's Deep River Orchestra
