Will Hudson (songwriter)

Will Hudson (born William Hudson, 1908, Bar Harbor, Maine – 1981, New York City) was an American jazz musician, arranger, and songwriter. He is best known for his collaborations with Eddie DeLange, forming the successful songwriting partnership "Hudson-DeLange."

Hudson began his musical career playing trumpet and arranging music for various bands during the late 1920s and early 1930s. In 1935, he met Eddie DeLange, and they began writing songs together. Their partnership proved highly productive, producing numerous hits for the big band era.

Some of Hudson-DeLange's most popular compositions include "Moonglow" (later popularized by Benny Goodman), "Sophisticated Swing," "Organ Grinder's Swing," and "Lullaby in Rhythm." Their songs were performed and recorded by leading orchestras of the day, including those of Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Tommy Dorsey, and Artie Shaw.

In addition to his songwriting, Hudson also led his own orchestra, the Will Hudson Orchestra, during the late 1930s and early 1940s. After the decline of the big band era, Hudson continued to work as an arranger and composer for various artists and projects. He is remembered for his significant contributions to the American popular songbook and the swing era.