In the scope of history, it is seldom mentioned that World War II was accompanied by a musician’s strike, lasting from 1942 until 1944. As a result, no union musicians could record for any commercial recording company.

Radio programs were allowed, but not recording sessions, unless it was specifically for a V-disk (distributed by the armed forces). It was the longest strike in entertainment history. As a result, very few releases of new material took place. Instead, the labels rushed their star performers into studios to record as much as possible before the strike kicked in on 8/1/42.

A few companies settled with the union in 1943, but the largest companies held out until November 1944, for terms virtually identical to those who settled earlier. All the while, the war raged on.

Featured tracks include:

Night and Day – Frank Sinatra

Brazil – Xavier Cugat

Pistol Packin’ Mama – Al Dexter & His Troopers

Praise the Lord and Pass the Ammunition – Kay Kaiser & His Orchestra

Comin’ In on a Wing and a Prayer- Golden Gate Quartet

I’ve Heard That Song Before- Harry James Orchestra

Paper Doll – The Mills Brothers

You’ll Never Know – Dick Haymes

Swinging on a Star- Bing Crosby

Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy- Andrews Sisters

Rum and Coca Cola – Andrews Sisters

On the Sunny Side of the Street – Tommy Dorsey Orchestra