Pronunciation: [bˈɛni mˈə͡ʊtən] (IPA) 
The spelling of "Bennie Moten" is based on the phonetics of the word. Bennie is pronounced as /ˈbɛni/ (BEN-ee), while Moten is pronounced as /ˈmoʊtən/ (MOH-tin). The word Bennie is derived from the name Benjamin, while Moten is a surname of African American origin. Bennie Moten was a prominent jazz pianist and band leader in the 1920s and 1930s, whose music and influence helped shape the Kansas City jazz scene.
Bennie Moten was an African American jazz pianist, band leader, and composer who played a significant role in the development of jazz during the early 20th century. Born on November 13, 1894, in Kansas City, Missouri, Moten became recognized for his contributions to the Kansas City jazz scene.
As a bandleader, Moten led the influential Bennie Moten's Kansas City Orchestra, which became popular in the 1920s and 1930s. The band was known for its energetic and intricate arrangements that combined elements of ragtime, blues, and swing. Moten's innovative compositions and arrangements, along with his skillful piano playing, helped define the distinctive Kansas City style of jazz.
Moten's orchestra featured several talented musicians, including Count Basie, who later went on to lead his own highly acclaimed big band. The band's recordings, such as "Moten Swing" and "South", showcased Moten's ability to create powerful, swinging arrangements that captivated listeners.
Tragically, Bennie Moten's promising career was cut short when he passed away at the age of 40 on April 2, 1935, due to complications from a tonsillectomy. Nonetheless, his influence on the development of jazz, particularly in Kansas City, remains profound. Bennie Moten's pioneering work laid the foundation for future generations of jazz musicians and contributed to the rich tapestry of American music.
The term "Bennie Moten" refers to Benjamin "Bennie" Moten, an influential jazz pianist, bandleader, and composer from Kansas City, Missouri. He was an important figure in the development of the Kansas City jazz style during the 1920s and 1930s.
The etymology of the name "Bennie Moten" is straightforward; it comes from the combination of "Bennie", a diminutive form of the name Benjamin, and "Moten", which is his surname. As for Moten's surname, its origin is likely a variation of the more common surname "Morton". The spelling might have been altered over time, resulting in the name "Moten". However, it is important to note that the specific etymology of Moten's name beyond this point is unknown.
