The American violinist Stuff Smith (1909-1967). He started out as a showman but quickly switched to the violin. In the 30s, he was very popular but after that his audience became smaller. In the 50s, he produced various records again, with pianist Oscar Peterson and trumpet player Dizzy Gillespie, to name a few.
Source:
Stuff Smith / Dizzy Gillespie / Oscar Peterson
(Verve, double CD)
