[2] Fields's group received some publicity as the first Army unit of its type, though another also performing in mid-1941 was the 369th's ensemble of African-American musicians, based in Fort Ontario.

In April 1944 Billboard magazine reported his most recent venture, managed by the William Morris Agency, with arrangements by George Handy.

In 1946, RCA Victor signed Fields as leader of his own big band, a format that was becoming increasingly difficult to maintain in the Post-War period.

Neal Hefti was one of his sidemen along with Bill Evans, Eddie Bert, Bernie Glow, Manny Albam, Al Klink (formally with Glenn Miller), Marty Napoleon, and Serge Chaloff.

In 1949–1950, he formed his Septet featuring Frank Rosolino on trombone, Jimmy Nottingham on trumpet, Jim Aton on bass, Bill Evans on piano and Tiny Kahn on drums.

Vibist Terry Gibbs noted: "We played opposite a nine-piece band led by Herbie Fields at Birdland.

"[8]His recording activity in the fifties was sporadic, and ranged from a few more big band sides, honking jukebox tunes (for Parrot), bop-tinged small groups, and finally a reeds and strings session released after his death by Fraternity.