Paul Whiteman was a pivotal figure in early 20th-century American music, often dubbed the "King of Jazz." A bandleader and arranger, Whiteman's orchestral approach to jazz, blending symphonic elements with popular dance rhythms, brought the genre to a wider audience. His 1924 commission of George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue" cemented his legacy, showcasing his commitment to elevating jazz beyond its dance hall origins. His sophisticated arrangements and popular appeal significantly shaped the development and mainstream acceptance of jazz during the "Jazz Age."