“The fastest company in the whole wide world.”

Abstract

Johnny Hodges and Cootie were working with Chick Webb at the time Duke offered the job to them. They loved Chick so much and were so faithful to him that Duke had to practically get on his knees to get them to leave. Finally Chick himself told them to take the job because he was able to see that it would better them in the long run. He was just that kind of guy and he liked Duke a whole lot.