A fine Dixieland trumpeter, Dick Cathcart became best-known for his role of ghosting the playing of Pete Kelly (as played by Jack Webb) in a radio series, film, and television show all titled Pete Kelly's Blues. Early on, Cathcart played trumpet in the U.S. Army Air Force Band. After stints with Alvino Rey, Ray McKinley, and Bob Crosby, he worked in the MGM studios (1946-1949), and with the bands of Ben Pollack and Ray Noble. In the 1950s, he began recording albums with his own group (which was titled Pete Kelly's Big Seven). Cathcart remained active on the Dixieland circuit (including festivals) off and on until his death. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide