Gil Rodin was more important behind the scenes than he was as a musician. He studied reeds, flute and trumpet in school and played in Chicago in the mid-1920s (primarily on alto sax), most notably with Art Kahn (1924-25). Rodin spent time in California with Harry Bastin's orchestra, and in 1927 he joined Ben Pollack's band. The altoist was with Pollack until the band broke up in 1934; he also did studio work and was part of Red Nichols' radio orchestra. He kept the nucleus of the band together (they recorded with singer Clark Randall in 1935) until it was taken over by Bob Crosby. As the first altoist with Crosby, Rodin played in the ensembles but never soloed; however, he did significant work as president, music director and business manager for Crosby up until the time he was drafted in 1942. He served in the military (playing in the U.S. Army Artillery Band), led a group with Ray Bauduc from 1944-45 (in which he played baritone) and soon rejoined Crosby. Later in life, Rodin was a radio and television producer, occasionally working with Crosby as his music director. On the only two recording sessions that he headed (resulting in four songs from 1930-31), Rodin led groups that included Jack Teagarden (featured on two vocals), Eddie Miller and Benny Goodman (featured on the last two numbers). ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide
