Matty Malneck

Matty Malneck had a dual career as a violinist and a songwriter, although his most lasting contributions were in the latter field. Malneck played in dance bands from the age of 16, most notably with Paul Whiteman from 1926-37, including taking solos on some of the hotter jazz numbers. Although his playing was never in the same league with Joe Venuti's, and his tone could be overly sentimental, Malneck was a fine technician with an emotional sound. In addition to his many sessions with Whiteman, Malneck recorded with Frank Signorelli, Frankie Trumbauer (from 1928-31, including with Bix Beiderbecke), Mildred Bailey and others. In the 1930s, Malneck began to concentrate more on songwriting; his better-known songs include "I'll Never Be the Same," "I'm Through with Love," "Goody Goody" and "Eeny Meeny Miney Mo." Malneck occasionally led a big band from 1938-39, and in the mid-'40s had a combo with singer Liz Tilton that appeared in several film shorts. Malneck led a couple of obscure titles in London in 1932 and recorded 14 selections for Decca from 1938-39. ~ Scott Yanow