Timeline: 1930
The census recorded 1,992 Black residents in Champaign County.
Jerry Lynch and his Rhythm Band performed throughout East Central Illinois. Scatman Crothers was reported to have been one of his lead vocalists.
Ernest (Ernie) Hite Sr. organized a his own jazz band with Clifford Jordan as manager, with local African Americans and college students as his musicians.
Mac Willis and his Doctors of Rhythm Boyz with Harold “Pete” Bridgewater on bass was formed. Harold joined the band after high school.
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