Artie Shaw was an American clarinetist, composer, and bandleader. He was one of the most popular musicians of the swing era, and his 1938 hit 'Begin the Beguine' became one of the most popular singles of the decade. Shaw was known for his innovative arrangements and improvisations, and he was also a pioneer in the use of string sections in jazz music. He was inducted into the Down Beat Jazz Hall of Fame in 1980.