During the '30s, Glen Gray formed a band from an orchestra contracted to Jean Goldkette (called the Orange Blossoms) and named it after a hotel that never opened. Through savvy talent-recruiting and immensely popular records, The Casa Loma Band became a sensation in 1931-1935. This was precision, drilled music with virtually no rhythmic fervor or blues feeling, but the Casa Loma Band maintained its popularity through the '30s and into the '40s. Gray retired in 1950 but kept working with the band until his death in 1963. Alumni include Herb Ellis, Red Nichols, and Bobby Hackett. ~ Ron Wynn, All Music Guide