Career

Singleton was born in Bunkie, Louisiana, United States, and grew up in New Orleans. His nickname, which he had as a baby, comes from a Creole word meaning "cute." He began working professionally with Steve Lewis by 1915. He served in the United States Navy during World War I. After returning to New Orleans, he played music with Papa Celestin, Big Eye Louis Nelson, John Robichaux, and Fate Marable. He later moved to St. Louis, Missouri, to join Charlie Creath's band and then relocated to Chicago, Illinois.

In Chicago, Singleton played with Doc Cook, Dave Peyton, Jimmie Noone, and theater bands. He later joined Louis Armstrong's band with Earl Hines. In 1928 and 1929, Singleton performed on important recordings with Louis Armstrong and his Hot Five. In 1929, he moved with Armstrong to New York City.

While in New York, Singleton played with Bubber Miley, Tommy Ladnier, Fats Waller, Jelly Roll Morton, and Otto Hardwick. He also played in the band that supported Bill Robinson. In 1934, Singleton returned to Chicago. In 1937, he went back to New York, where he worked with Mezz Mezzrow and Sidney Bechet.

In 1943, Singleton moved to Los Angeles, California. There, he led his own band, played music for movies, and appeared on the radio program The Orson Welles Almanac in 1944. He also worked with Slim Gaillard, Wingy Manone, Eddie Condon, Nappy Lamare, Art Hodes, Oran "Hot Lips" Page, and Max Kaminsky.

Death

Singleton retired after having a stroke in 1970. He passed away in New York City in 1975 at the age of 77. His wife, Margie, who was the sister of Charlie Creath, died in 1982 at the age of 82.