Lunceford's became one of the most popular swing bands in America in the 1930's, concentrating on showmanship and ensemble sound, rather than on featuring soloists. Having signed the outstanding arranger Sy Oliver and such top musicians as Willie Smith, Mose Allen and Trummy Young, the band established a residency at New York's Cotton Club in January 1934. Recording contracts with Decca and Columbia, national tours (mostly one-nighters) and radio broadcasts eventually gained Lunceford a huge following across the U.S..