He had short stints, and made a few intriguing recordings, with the orchestras of Artie Shaw and Gene Krupa in 1938. The following year he worked with Jimmy Mundy's big band for a time and Watson was part of all of the Spirits of Rhythm reunion bands. He was in and out of music for the next few years, not really finding a niche for himself. Watson was based in Los Angeles from 1943 on, sometimes teaming up with Slim Gaillard, but mostly having low-profile jobs before his death from pneumonia at the age of 52. He can be seen briefly in the film #Stormy Weather and, in addition to sideman appearances with Shaw, Krupa, Leonard Feather, and the Spirits, Watson led two four-song recording sessions (1939 and 1946), one apiece for Decca and Signature; the latter has some classic performances. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi
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Jingle Bells |
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Snake Pit |
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Sonny Boy |