Glenn Miller recorded “I’ve Got a Gal in Kalamazoo” on May 20, 1942.
The song would resonate with women — as well as swing dancers of both genders — far beyond southwestern Michigan.
Since 1996, the song has been a regular pregame offering of the Western Michigan University Bronco Marching Band, according to Cheryl Roland, a spokeswoman for the school, which is based in Kalamazoo.
And when the marching band releases a CD of its classics or performs in a season-concluding concert, the tune is always one of the highlights.
Source : “This week in Michigan history … ‘I’ve Got a Gal’ got its rhythm from Kalamazoo”, Detroit Free Press, May 20, 2012.
Glenn Miller and His Orchestra Perform I’ve Got A Gal in Kalamazoo via YouTube