It's strange to see this on Youtube.
I remember my grandfather, George Darroch, who also played with Bing Crosby, mentioned Billie in passing on several occasions, and that he was very talented. The Davenport Hotel was the stomping ground of both musicians and on occasion they'd played together. George Darroch was also a poet, and he is the reason I became addicted to the world of miniature.
My Uncle Tommy Genes, who along with his wife Dorothy ("Dot"), also became local fixtures in the Spokane music scene spoke about Tipton's talent and that when this news came out, it didn't matter to either of them.
When I came out, Spokane became the one place of support I could count on---whether with Tommy and Dorothy, or my grandparents---and I mean all of them but my step grandmother stepped up on this matter.
So seeing this old bit of history linked to Youtube is really affirming. And as a big PS--- Spokane is once again in full retro. Since this piece was produced, the Davenport has been restored and its back to its former glory, standing in as as one of the most luxurious hotels west of the Mississippi.
But the glory years of the big bands now seem to rest in my grandmother's photo albums, all these faces staring up at me, who I don't know but whose music still must echo's off those walls. That is---if you are up for a listen and willing to believe that we remain a city of secrets.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YY52m2EadA
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