dr, 1906-1961 US, Charleston, West Virginia
Musician of Jazz
Cuba Austin (1906 – 1961) was an American jazz drummer.Born in Charleston, West Virginia, Austin first enters the record as a member of William McKinney's group, McKinney's Cotton Pickers. Austin joined the group after its formation in 1926, taking over for McKinney himself on drums. The group recorded frequently, both under the names Cotton Pickers and Chocolate Dandies.Austin was an influential figure in early jazz; Gene Krupa called Austin one of his major influences. Austin was one of the first drummers to use the newly invented hi hat in hot and swing jazz.