Cats and the Fiddle

The Cats and the Fiddle was an African American singing group formed in 1937 in Chicago and active until 1951, releasing more than 30 gramophone sides during the period.

[1] In 1940, their first real hit came with the song "I Miss You So", a mid-tempo ballad penned by Jimmy Henderson which was later redone by the Orioles at a slower tempo.

[1] "I Miss You So" (written by Bertha Scott, Jimmy Henderson and Sid Robin) eventually became their best known song, it has been covered by many artists, like Paul Anka (1959 single release), Little Anthony and the Imperials (1965 single release), Charles Brown, Barry Young, Nat King Cole Trio, Tony Scotti, Earl Grant, Julie London (on Love Letters), Connie Francis, Diana Krall (on Love Scenes), Jermaine Jackson, Kay Starr (on Losers, Weepers), Mel Carter, Charlie Rich, Mickey Gilley, Chris Connor, Etta Jones (on Lonely and Blue), and The Mills Brothers.

While serving his country he was replaced by Hank Haslett briefly before Herbie Mills returned to the group.

[3] In 1944, the Regis/Manor group of labels signed the Cats and the Fiddle where they re-recorded "I Miss You So" led by Ernie Price.

[1] In 1947, Pee Wee Branford was replaced by Emmitt Slay briefly, until Johnny Davis took over the spot of First Tenor permanently.