The Paramount Shanghai, the birthplace of Chinese Jazz

April 30 marks the International Jazz Day, a celebration of a musical genre that blends elements of European and American culture. Jazz arrived in China as early as the 1920s, with Shanghai serving as its cradle. As a landmark venue in Shanghai, The Paramount witnessed the early development of jazz in China, including the emergence of the country’s first Chinese jazz band, the Jimmy King Band.

Founded by Jin Huaizu, commonly known as Jimmy King, the band was born out of his passion for music, which was nurtured by frequent visits to The Paramount to enjoy performances. His dream was to form a jazz band composed entirely of Chinese musicians. In 1947, the owner of The Paramount hired Jin to form a band. At his invitation, Zheng Deren, who later became known as the master of the double bass in China, joined the band, demonstrating his exceptional musical talent and making a significant contribution to the arrangements.

The Jimmy King Band gained popularity among Shanghai audiences for their polished performances and unique interpretation of Chinese pop songs in a jazz style. Their shows attracted large crowds, with queues for parking stretching several blocks, breaking the monopoly of foreign bands and paving the way for the development of jazz in China.

Zheng Deren excelled not only in performing and arranging for the Jimmy King Band but also continued to contribute to the jazz scene in the years that followed. In the mid-1980s, he was invited to perform at the Peace Hotel, recreating the jazz nights of the 1940s for audiences.

On January 19, 2022, a grand concert was held at the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra Music Hall to celebrate the centenary of Zheng’s birthday, where a jazz band played "Happy Birthday" to him and offered heartfelt wishes. Zheng’s musical journey not only witnessed the development of Chinese jazz but also showcased the diverse cultural charm of Shanghai.

As pioneers of Chinese jazz, the Jimmy King Band represented more than just a musical legacy; they affirmed the diversity of Chinese culture. And their music will continue to inspire future generations to explore and create jazz sounds unique to China.