Defeating the enemy was hard work. When it came time for a break, factories enjoyed a pause that refreshed.The Coca-Cola Co. sponsored a national radio program that treated World War II defense workers to free concerts in their hometowns by top musicians of the day.The Victory Parade of Spotlight Bands, which aired from 1941 to 1945, was heard over nearly 200 stations on the Blue Network, forerunner of ABC, including Akron’s WAKR and Canton’s WHBC.Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, Lionel Hampton, Lawrence Welk, Stan Kenton and Louis Prima were only a few of the bandleaders who headlined more than 1,200 patriotic programs across the country.Northeast Ohio war plants and military centers welcomed big acts for crowded concerts that saluted workers, honored troops and boosted public morale on the national stage.

Sections:  u.s.   
Topics:  Ohio   Summit County   Akron   
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