1. 1. Contrary to his and his sister’s (Welch 2014) estimation, aside from the prominent positioning ODJB has always enjoyed throughout jazz history, LaRocca has received extensive scholarly attention. For recent examples, see Charters (2008), Hersch (2007), and Sudhalter (2001).
2. 2. For another crucial and thoroughly researched perspective on the origins of jazz, see Gushee (2010).
3. 3. For more on the “great man” trope in jazz history, see Pond (2003), Solis (2009), and Tucker (2002).
4. 4. Jeffrey Magee makes a more compelling case for the bandleader, composer, and pianist Fletcher Henderson, whose arrangements were the foundation of the Goodman Orchestra’s repertoire, as the “Uncrowned King of Swing.” See Magee (2005). For more of Raeburn’s research on LaRocca and related topics, see Raeburn (2009, 2014, and 2017).
5. 5. For more on Cuticchio, the Opera dei Pupi, and Sicilian contastorie, see Simetti (1996).