Woodrow Charles Herman was an American jazz clarinetist, saxophonist, singer, and big band leader. Leading groups called “The Herd”, Herman came to prominence in the late 1930s and was active until his death in 1987.

Woody Herman Quotes

1. “There were a lot of times where there was a great deal of fodder recorded and played, because there was a market for it – just as there is today. And there were more bad bands than there were good bands – I think that should always be remembered.”
— Woody Herman

2. “Some guys dig ditches, I have a band. It’s what I do.”
— Woody Herman

3. “Musically, the bebop route was magnificent, but businesswise, it was the dumbest thing I ever did.”
— Woody Herman

4. “We might as well swing boys, because Stravinsky cuts us all.”
— Woody Herman

5. “I’m going to be on the road for the rest of my life.”
— Woody Herman

6. “My only claim to fame, if I have one, is that I’m an editor.”
— Woody Herman

7. “The singing was something I got from my father.”
— Woody Herman