Geraldo became a major figure on the British entertainment scene for four decades, having fronted just about every kind of ensemble and influenced the successful careers of numerous top singers.

For his broadcasts he varied the style of his orchestra quite considerably, and a particular series Tip Top Tunes (employing a full string section alongside the usual dance band) enjoyed great popularity.

The Cunarders were especially popular because when they had docked in New York, the musicians would have one or two nights free to visit jazz venues like Birdland on Broadway, just north of West 52nd Street in Manhattan, or clubs in Greenwich Village.

[6] In the public rooms of the liners, the musicians were required to play strict tempo dance music, but they would sometimes slip in the odd jazz number – especially if there was a chance that a celebrity passenger might sit in.

[6] Many well-known figures in British post-war jazz "served" in Geraldo's musical navy, such as John Dankworth, Benny Green, Bill Le Sage, Ronnie Scott, and Stan Tracey.

Other noted names in the band (1946/47 period and prior) included Wally Stott, Keith Bird, Bob Adams (saxes) and Eddie Calvert (trumpet).