Why did Benny Goodman initially worry about hiring pianist Teddy Wilson?

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Benny Goodman in a tuxedo with bow tie and boutonniere, smiling and holding a clarinet, circa 1945. — Benny Goodman Jazz clarinetist Benny Goodman, c. 1945.

Benny Goodman initially feared the consequences of hiring Teddy Wilson, a Black pianist, to join his musical lineup. Although Wilson was hired at the suggestion of John Hammond, Goodman was concerned about the potential social and professional backlash of forming a racially integrated group during that era.12

These fears were ultimately set aside when the Benny Goodman Trio—which included Goodman, Wilson, and drummer Gene Krupa—performed its first public show without incident. Following this success, Goodman continued to hire other prominent Black musicians for his small groups, including vibraphonist Lionel Hampton and electric guitarist Charlie Christian, helping to pioneer racially integrated jazz ensembles in the United States.12