Artie Shaw

Artie Shaw

Artie Shaw Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Dec. 30, 2004.
THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. (AP) - Artie Shaw, the clarinetist and bandleader whose recording of "Begin the Beguine" epitomized the Big Band era, died Thursday at his home. He was 94.

Shaw had been in declining health for some time and apparently died of natural causes, his attorney and longtime friend Eddie Ezor said. Shaw's caregiver was with him when he died, Ezor said.

At his peak in the 1930s and '40s, Shaw pulled in a five-figure salary per week and ranked with Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey and Glenn Miller as the bandleaders who made music swing. But he left the music world largely behind in the mid-'50s and spent much of the second half of his life devoted to writing and other pursuits.

His band's recording of Cole Porter's "Begin the Beguine" was intended to be the "B" side of the record. Instead, it became a huge hit, topping the charts for six weeks in 1938 and making Shaw famous at age 28.

Among his other hits, some with his big band and some with his quartet, the Gramercy Five: "Frenesi," "Dancing in the Dark," "Nightmare," "Back Bay Shuffle," "Accent-tchu-ate the Positive," "Traffic Jam," "They Say," "Moonglow," "Stardust," "Thanks for Ev'rything," "Summit Ridge Drive" and "My Little Nest of Heavenly Blue."

He composed some of his songs, such as "Interlude in B Flat," a 1935 work that featured an unusual combination of clarinet and strings.

He worked with such jazz legends as Buddy Rich, Mel Torme, Gordon Jenkins and, at a time when most white bandleaders refused to hire blacks, Billie Holiday.

Another famous roster: his wives. They included actresses Lana Turner (wife No. 3, 1940), Ava Gardner (No. 5, 1945), and Evelyn Keyes (No. 8, 1957) and novelist Kathleen Winsor, author of the 1944 best-seller "Forever Amber" (No. 6, 1946).

The marriage to Keyes, best know for playing the middle of the three O'Hara sisters in "Gone With the Wind," lasted the longest, until 1985, but they led separate lives for much of that time.

"I like her very much and she likes me, but we've found it about impossible to live together," he said in a 1973 interview.

After his first burst of stardom, his good looks made Hollywood come calling. It was while filming "Dancing Coed," 1939, that he met Turner. In 1940, he appeared in another musical, "Second Chorus," and got two Academy Award nominations for his musical contributions - for best score and best song ("Love of My Life.")

A volatile and superbly intelligent man, Shaw hated the loss of privacy that stardom brought, had little use for signing autographs and once caused an uproar by calling jitterbugging fans "morons." He later said he was just referring to the rowdy ones.

"I could never understand why people wanted to dance to my music," he once said. "I made it good enough to listen to."

He chafed at having to play "Begin the Beguine" ad nauseam, wishing audiences would be more willing to accept new material. ("I mean, it's a good tune if you are going to be associated with one tune, but I didn't want that.")

He retired from performing several times - finally putting down his clarinet for good in the mid-'50s. After that, he lived in Spain for a time, operated a farm, and turned to literature full-time. He was a voracious reader since childhood, and had already produced a well-received autobiography, "The Trouble with Cinderella," in 1952.

"I did all you can do with a clarinet," he said. "Any more would have been less."

He put out two collections of short fiction, "I Love You, I Hate You, Drop Dead!" and "The Best of Intentions." He spent years working on a voluminous autobiographical novel tracing the rise of a young jazz musician, whom he called Albie Snow.

"I've lived for a long time and I've learned a few things that I'm passing on," he said.

Shaw was born Arthur Arshawsky on May 23, 1910, in New York City; his immigrant parents struggled to earn a living in the clothing business.

He began his professional career while still in his teens, first playing saxophone, then switching to clarinet to take advantage of a job opportunity.

By the time he was in his early 20s, he was a highly paid member of a CBS radio orchestra. After the first of his many retirements from the music business, he returned to New York and began assembling his first orchestra. "Begin the Beguine" and fame followed not long afterward.

He enlisted in the Navy during World War II and wound up spending most of his time leading a band, giving shows for the troops.

An outspoken liberal, Shaw was called before the House Un-American Activities Committee in 1953 when it was investigating Communist influence in entertainment. For once, Shaw was contrite, telling committee members he had attended a couple of Communist meetings after the war because of his interest in social justice and world peace - but had never joined the party or given it any money.

"I hate to admit that I was a dupe, but I guess I was," he said. Committee members responded with sympathy, one telling him to go out and use his talent "to fight for true Americanism."

His only musical activity in recent years was conducting a revival band he organized in the early 1980s, featuring arrangements Shaw's bands had used in the past. He did not play his clarinet.

Shaw was often asked about his supposed rivalry with fellow clarinetist Goodman. He said: "Benny, who was every bit as dedicated as I was, wanted to be an instrumentalist - he was a superb technician - while I wanted to be a musician. I think my mind was more complex than his."


Copyright © 2004 The Associated Press

Sign Artie Shaw's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

February 17, 2018

Danny Lee posted to the memorial.

February 20, 2016

CHARLIE BULANTI posted to the memorial.

September 14, 2015

James Clark posted to the memorial.

74 Entries

Danny Lee

February 17, 2018

Even though I am lead singer In a pop, rock, country band my band Danny Lee GEMINI band in Phoenix & las vegas, we try to do 2 to three numbers to honor people like Mr Shaw. My greatest music memory of NYC was going to the BLUE NOTE with a very dear friend of the late VIC DAMONE, ( Dominic Visconsi Sr.) THIS was in the mid 80s to see Mr. Shaws first public music appearance in 34 years I believe. RIP YOU TRULY EPIC ICON TO THE ERA OF PURE MUSIC FOREVER

CHARLIE BULANTI

February 20, 2016

I MET ARTIE AND HIS BAND MEMBERS IN HONOLULU IN 1942. AT THE TIME I WAS PLAYING LEAD ALTO IN A COAST GUARD BAND, IN WAILUPE. THEREAS NO DOUBT THST SRTIE WAS THE FINEST CLARINETIST IN THE WORLD. GOODMAN WAS GOOD, BUT IF YOU LISTEN TO ARTIES PLAYING ON HIS "STAR DUST" YOU WILL UNDERSTAND WHAT I MEAN. HE PLAYS ABOVE HIGH C, WITH CLARITY AND MAGNIFICENT TONE! AS FAR AS I'M CONCERNED, GOODMAN WAS A GOOD TECHNICIAN BUT NO MATCH! ARTIES IDEAS, HIS PHRASING, HIS TONE QUALITY IS THE BEST! ARTIE IS THE FINEST CLARINETIST IN THE WORLD! CHARLIE BULANTI.

James Clark

September 14, 2015

His songs are simply delightful. Reminds me of happy moments. Artie Shaw was an amazing clarinetist.

Harry Simpson

December 30, 2014

Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.

Fair winds and following seas sailor.

Thank you for your service to this nation.

Jill Bell

November 10, 2014

I cannot stop listening to Artie Shaw, his music is so amazing. I am an elderly widow, Artie Shaw music makes me feel like a romantic teenager. I have read The trouble with Cinderalla, what an amazing individual he was.

November 5, 2014

I cannot stop listening to Artie Shaw and his music, it is so amazing. I am an elderly widow and Artie makes my days come to life.

Leo Walker

May 1, 2011

Artie Shaw was a very dedicated and interesting person. He sounded like a great person. I myself play the clarinet, but I found out that clarinets don't relly play in jazz bands anymore. I am currently teaching myself how to play jazz and how to improvise. The "King of Carinet" should be remembered in all of our hearts...

May 1, 2011

Artie Shaw was a very dedicated and interesting person. He sounded like a great person. I myself play the clarinet, but I found out that clarinets don't relly play in jazz bands anymore. I am currently teaching myself how to play jazz and how to improvise. The "King of Carinet" should be remembered in all of our hearts...

March 18, 2010

For Artie...

You were in a
league of your own.


WEEP NOT FOR ME


Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.

Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.

I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.

Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.

Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.

Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.


© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California

Gavin Wilson

January 28, 2009

As a collector of jazz records since the age of seven (now 40) i have always held Artie Shaw in high esteem.
Now as a clarinetist i try to play along with the records with some success but not alot i wish i had been born earlier so that i could've actually seen him and also be able to get transcriptions of his solos to see how he played a greatly missed musician and author

Raymond

February 29, 2008

Artie Shaw was my all time favorite clarinet player. I just loved the way he played his tone his style his ability to make a big band swing like there was no tomorrow. When history is written over and over again about clarinet expertise ARTIE SHAW remains to the very top. I have heard too too too much about BENNY GOODMAN. Benny Goodman was over rated. In comparison there is a comparison. Artie Shaw was the much more accomplished jazz musician. But in all sincerity Artie had that ability to play the greatest I mean the greatest clarinet in the universe. Ask Buddy De Franco ask any one who adored him. Artie Shaw was the beginng and end of clarinet. Artie we love you today just like we loved you way back then. Simply the most tremendous clarinet player in the Universe. Love you and miss you Artie Shaw.

Bob MacLeod

December 17, 2006

Without ARTIE Shaw I would have never played the clarinet. And by not playing the clarinet my life would be very empty. He was an inspiration to our generation.God Bless YOU ARTIE. Bob MacLeod St.JOhn's Newfoundland

Michael Allen

October 30, 2005

Mr. Shaw, thank you...

harpy

February 25, 2005

john,i am sorry about your dad being gone.

my mom is too and its been 7 years..iguess maybe time heals?

i dont know.

but as far as artie and all the other guys like the dorseys and benny goodman,they live on.their music will always have an effect on younger musicians.i have met more younger folks than me(i am 43) who know who artie is than anyone my age would!

so the music lives on in sort of a tribute to our parents age group!

often,as i was growing up,and even now with dad,i hear stories of how those guys would be booked for the servicemen to have a great night off!

cheers pal.

harpy

JOHN CLOUGH

February 24, 2005

My father (a talented player of the saxophone and clarinet during the 30's and 40's) had the great distinction of meeting Artie Shaw in October 1943 when he toured with his band throughout the east coast of Australia during the Second World War. Although it was a brief meeting of about 15 - 20 mintues Artie gave him an invite to attend a fleet band concert and handed him an ID photo as a pass which I still have to this day. As a family for who the great swing band era was a part of life I continue the ongoing tradition - my father passed away in 1979. Artie Shaw was the greatest jazz technician of the clarinet in the 20th Century and his unique style of playing will leave an indelible impression in the minds of those who he gave the pleasure of listening to his unforgettible music. He will be sadly missed.

Anna Barnes

January 21, 2005

I am a clarinetist too, but you made the instrument sing!! we will miss you!! Anna

GARY PEELE

January 21, 2005

MY MOTHER WAS A "BOBBY-SOXER" IN THE HEY-DAY OF THE FOURTIES,SO I GREW UP LISTENING TO HER BIG BAND FAVORITES. Mr.SHAW WILL CERTAINLY BE REMEMBERED FONDLY AND MISSED GREATLY.

Judy VanVuren

January 11, 2005

As a teenager, I lived to dance to Big Band music. I spent many nights with my folks at WillowBrook Ballroom in the Chicago suburbs whenever I could talk them into taking me along. The memories are wonderful as was the music. Thank you, Artie .

IVAN Scheldeman

January 11, 2005

as an organiser of local swing nights, Mr. Shaw's music was always part of the main attractions. We will keep up his good work, dance, swing & listen to his marvellous music - a salute from the Ghent Swingtime Society.

Donna Neville

January 10, 2005

An 80 yr. old who enjoyed listening to his music rather than dancing to it. Wanting to not miss a single note (especially Star Dust), I was spellbound just listening.

bruce medici

January 10, 2005

as a signer stated above,arties music was also brought to me because my dad(who is now 82.5 years old) turned me on to all the swing guys.dad had met artie back in ww2 when artie played some army base.

and he was supposedly a nice guy.



the band itself was smoking from what i have heard and i bet they were!

the sad part is artie chose to not play anymore.

why nobody will ever know.

he said he was tired of the buisiness and was also tired of touring.

but he left us a legacy of music!

advice?

buy it all.its all good!

harp

Lee Gustafson

January 8, 2005

As a younger fan, I discoverd Artie's music by purchasing them as gifts for my father and then listening to them with him. Artie's bands always put the most into a performance with such excellent musicianship. I also love the vocals of Helen Forrest and the song he did with her "All The Things You Are". I highly recommend the Chronological Artie Shaw cds from the Melody Jazz Classic label. They do such a superb job of documenting Artie's recordings year by year and with all his bands. They are truly OUTSTANDING!

Alex Hutchinson

January 5, 2005

The passing of Artie Shaw is indeed a sad day for dedicated players of the licorice stick of which I am one and in effect only two of the greats remain viz Buddy De Franco and Tony Scott.Fortunately I had the pleasure of hearing Artie Shaw when he visited Austalia in the early fifties. Vale Artie

Bruce Graham

January 5, 2005

I was born the year of "Begin The Beguine." Even if you had bad feelings about the song, it meant much to me when I first heard it as a teenager. My love for it and appreciation for your accomplishment helped shape my attitude toward music and life. Thanks for it. Anyone who hasn't heard it hasn't heard music.

paul hesketh

January 4, 2005

We have lost a truly fine musician.



I was introduced to Mr Shaw's music as a young man. (my older brother left behind a recording of Art's "In the Mood") an arrangement that was brilliant in 1938, and is still exciting to this day.

Thank you for such wonderful music!

Farewll dear friend.

Randy Seaver

January 4, 2005

Artie,

You inspired me in ways that words (at least mine) cannot describe. Your music, wit and wisdom lit a path out of a very dark tunnel. I hope that you can finally find the peace you have been searching for. Your music will live forever, and I will cherish it always. Godspeed on your new journey

P.S. You were right about Benny. You are the musician

Joseph Clingroth

January 3, 2005

I have enjoyed everything that Artie Shaw has recorded. They are played on my program, 'Studio J'. We celebrated his bithday on the air for the past 21 years. Sadly. it's now time for a memorial program.

john macleod

January 3, 2005

i know arte was 94 but its still a great shock,hearing the news.when i was a boy in scotland 40 years ago artie music made it for me and still does. Rest well artie, and maybee you'll start playing again so I can get to hear you live, when my turn comes to shake off the mortal coil

Michael Lenglez

January 3, 2005

Dear Artie Shaw,

I am so glad I saw you perform 3 times in Los Angeles, twice in 1985 and in 1998. And to have met you at the Canadian consul house in 1988 for the party on the documentary made about you "Artie Shaw. Time is all you've got".

Am listening to your fantastic music as I am writing these thoughts about you. Your music is here to stay for all ages.

Am also glad to have known Ava Gardner, a great lady.

May you rest in peace.



Michael Lenglez

Ellen H, Coburn

January 3, 2005

We have lost one of the BEST. My husband and I used to dance to his music, even though we were younger. We both loved you. Artie. Now you can play for my husband in Heaven. He is waiting for you. You are joining some of your best friends, so form a good band together and may God bless you all. You have been called home, but thank you for the memories. I can still enjoy your recordings. I hope I join you all later.

Ed Nani

January 3, 2005

Artie,

You are not here but in spirit as is your music, music that will never die as long as universities and colleges continue to teach big band musicianship and promote the extraordinary charts of the big band era.



Your musical ideas were magical. Where some preferred to be virtuosos technicians you musical innovations trumped them all.



Ed Nani

Jean Adler

January 2, 2005

I had the honor of interviewing Artie for my master's thesis in 2002. What a treat that was. I was told Artie said no to nearly everyone, so that made it even more of an honor. I had also been told what a grouch he was. Artie was funny, charming, and candid. It is a day I will never forget. His passing makes that interview all the sweeter.

Thanks Artie. As a clarinetist you will always be my idol. And as hard as I try, I still can't hit the extreme altissimo high C like you showed me.

cathy dorsey

January 2, 2005

Thanks for the music and the memories, Artie. Rest in Peace.

bill schroeder

January 2, 2005

an icon, a master at his trade,genius at everything he was involved with, rest in peace Artie, gave us all a lot of happy hours.

Thank you

Nick Dragos

January 2, 2005

Artie...I had the honor of being the M.C. when you last appeared in Sacramento at a benefit for a college jazz ensemble...you were a great musician in every sense of the word..Thanks for the art you've given us all.

Stanley Slome

January 2, 2005

Your 78s in the 1940s when I was a teenager were among the first I ever owned. It was only years later with listening maturity that I was fully able to appreciate your artistry. If there is a Great Beyond, I hope you will receive the knowledge and wisdom you sought in life.

DIXIE LEE KALLENBORN

January 2, 2005

IN LOVING MEMORY OF ARTIE SHAW , A

LEGEND , IN THE WORLD OF MUSIC ,

WHEN IT WAS REAL MUSIC . YOUR

MEMORY AND MUSIC WILL LONG BE WITH

THE WORLD , AND CHERISHED FOREVER !

SLEEP IN HEAVENLY PEACE .

Suzi Williams

January 2, 2005

The best of the best! I love big band music. Rest in Peace Mr. Shaw. What a talent! What a loss to the world!

bruce medici

January 2, 2005

to artie and family.

artie shaw was one of the best .his desire to leave the buisiness and live a privaite life was what made him even more likable.

thanks artie for all the great music.you were the last of the big band greats.

susan ziade

January 1, 2005

A my age heard his music in person when he made appearances in New York and he was a very elegant quiet man...Not typical in those day's of a musician and bandleader....I may be dating myself but, the enjoyment of his music is worth doing so. God Bless a great bandleader.

John Bohn

January 1, 2005

Artie, RIP. You "Began the Beguine" and it is still in the hearts of people who really enjoyed good music. I guess we Old Timers can't accept all of the noise, actrobatics, and ridiculous custumes, so we have to go to the Stations that have music as yours. Benny Goodman, Glen Miller, and still- -Lawrence Welk

May the Angels play their harps to you. John

samuel smith

January 1, 2005

Thank you, Artie, for giving the world your dynamic sound and for allowing the world to hear Lady Day, Helen, Roy, Barney, Mel and countless others who had a prominent role in your band. Thank God the forces to be at the time couldn't limit your mind. Bird was among those who listened. RIP.

RICHARD HARRIS

January 1, 2005

ENJOYED YOUR MUSIC, GOD BE WITH YOU. R.I.P. RICHARD

John Baumlin

January 1, 2005

I wasn't around when Mr. Shaw was actively playing with his various bands, but got to know him through his books (and love of books) and later, his astounding recordings. We will not see his like again and he will be sorely missed.

Tom King

January 1, 2005

Nobody ever played clarinet like Shaw, a God-given talent honed by years of bus-connected, nightly shows. When someone once asked him why there weren't more great bands like his, his honest reply was that "It's so hard, just so hard" And so true art is....thanks, Artie....you were the greatest! Tom

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

January 1, 2005

You inspired so many of us with your talent and great music. You will be missed. Deepest sympathy to your family and fans.

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

January 1, 2005

You inspired so many of us with your talent and great music. You will be missed. Deepest sympathy to your family and fans.

Jerry Rubin

December 31, 2004

Rest in Pease Artie. You lived life your way. God Bless.

Edna Brasier

December 31, 2004

Every one who listen to Artie play fell in love with the clarinet. Our loss is heavens gain. Artie will add greatly to heavens band.

MARION DELANEY

December 31, 2004

ENJOYED YOUR MUSIC Marion Delaney

December 31, 2004

YOU ARE IN A BETTER PLACE NOW.

R.I.P ARTIE SHAW

Helene Schmidt

December 31, 2004

From one clarinet player to another!

I really enjoyed listening to your recordings when I was a kid growing up and I thought that you had one of the best swing bands going.

My Dad who was a Big Band fanatic --may he rest in peace -- loved your music too.

Now you are back up there with some of the best of the best and I wish I could hear the jam sessions up there now!

Thank you so very,very much for the memories.

And may you be remembered for the good things that you did here when you were living here.

Shalom!

Jerry Wiley

December 31, 2004

Wow, Artie! What a great band there is in heaven! Have a chair, there, next to BG, TD, JD, HJ and all those many wonderful musicians who thrilled us in the Big Band era. Say "Hi" for us all.

Pauline Dimick

December 31, 2004

When I was 14 I saw your band at the

Golden Gate Theater l944. When that Clarinet came booming out of the dark and the spot on you....I"ll never forget it. I have your records and still get a thrill. Your intelligence and talent are not forgotten,

Ajay Paul

December 31, 2004

Oh the great pleasure that Artie Shaw gave his public! He was grand. Kudos to you, Artie, and Bon Voyage.

Gary Robinson

December 31, 2004

Artie,

You will be missed. What a talent you were. My Dad Les Robinson (seriously ill himself), was your lead alto on "Begin the Beguine".He respected your musical talent,before your fame in 1938.Peace be with you Artie.

Sylvia Turrell

December 31, 2004

So sorry to hear of Mr. Shaw's death. Thank God we have his wonderfully entertaining, easy listening music on records, tapes, & CD's to still enjoy even though he is gone. My favorite is Begin The Beguine. God Bless.

Frank Balogh Jr.

December 31, 2004

As a youngster in the 40s my parents took me to see Artie's band perform at the old Lakeside Ballroom here in Dayton. I was mesmerized by his music and have been a fan ever since. They don't make 'em like Artie anymore.

Dee Westbrook

December 31, 2004

Mr. Shaw made huge contributions to the lives of many, personally and professionally, and will be truly missed. My condolences to you all. I hope you find solace in the promises of our dear God that 'soon death will be no more.' (Rev. 21:3,4)

Bro. William & Sis. Vera Bonner, Jr. PHA

December 31, 2004

"Kool Kool" Artie Shaw. Bro.William & Sis. Vera Bonner Jr. PHA. 141 Fishing Crk Ch Rd NW Milledgeville, Ga. 31061-8118

glenn nelson

December 31, 2004

Artie Shaw one of the great band leaders back when big bands were in their hey day. We will miss you much . Your music and band were out of this world. Thanks artie

Wendell Whittle

December 31, 2004

To the family and friends of Artie Shaw,



I would like to extend my condolences to the family for your great lost. At such a time in life, we need encouragement. Please find comfort in these words."And there will be many of those asleep in the ground of dust who will wake up, these to indefinitely lasting life". Daniel 12:2

paolo PICCARDO

December 31, 2004

A great man and leader joined the Heaven Big Band.

I'll never forget You,Artie!

Helena & Neil Perlmutter

December 30, 2004

Another great one is gone. Artie Shaw was a fantastic band leader and will be missed by those of us who remember his great talent. Our sympathy to his family.

Dick Sizemore

December 30, 2004

So sorry to hear of the passing of this musical legend.

Jim Reavis

December 30, 2004

I remember my parents dancing and playing to Artie's music in Salisbury and what a good soothing sound his music had.

Maryann Winebrenner

December 30, 2004

I cannot believe I'm the first to sign your guest book Artie. You are the reason I chose to play clarinet in band, first chair, I might add. My deepest sympathy to your family and friends. You will be missed. Rest in peace Artie.

Jeannie Hardwick

December 30, 2004

Here's to a GREAT clarinet player Mr. Artie Shaw! Maybe one day we will play our clarinets in Heaven!

Max Stump

December 30, 2004

Mighty good music Artie!!! Thanks

Glenn martinet

December 30, 2004

My Mom always had WNEW AM on the radio. I grew up listining to big bands, like Shaw, Miller, James, Goodman, etc. Very hard to find this music anymore on the radio.

ROY WAGNER

December 30, 2004

I always enjoyed your great band & will miss you

ROY

Bruce Partain

December 30, 2004

Artie was a gifted musician. He inspired many with his talent and leadership. He will be missed.

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February 17, 2018

Danny Lee posted to the memorial.

February 20, 2016

CHARLIE BULANTI posted to the memorial.

September 14, 2015

James Clark posted to the memorial.