The phrase ‘cool cat’ is associated with jazz music so it’s not surprising that this rakish and debonair feline – cocktail at his side - was chosen for the matchbook cover of the Kit Kat Club in Los Angeles.

Previously called the Music Box, this establishment at 608 S Western Avenue was a stopping off point for many jazz musicians in the 1940s and 50s.

Saxophonist Hubert ‘Bumps’ Myer, whose show was advertised as Cool Jazz out of Harlem, into Broadway and now in Hollywood – had a regular slot.

Born in Virginia in 1912, he moved to Los Angeles as a child and showed his versatility as a musician by backing bluesman T Bone Walker and his trailblazing use of early electric guitars in the 1940s.

Dick Baker, who owned the Kit Kat Club with his wife Lee, was known as the ‘king of the ivories’ and often played the piano at this intimate little spot known for its hospitable atmosphere. Customers could hang out at the cocktail bar or move into the back room to enjoy the music sessions.

Matchbooks were a cheap and easy way for many bars, restaurants and clubs to advertise their establishments since everyone smoked cigarettes during this era.

The Kit Kat Club was first mentioned in early 18th century as an English club in London with strong political and literary associations. Another famous Kit Kat Club was in 1930s Berlin and inspired the name of the musical Cabaret. Post WWII, many bars and clubs across the US with musical connections also used the name.

We think the Kit Kat Club in Los Angeles closed in the early 60s, not long after the owners and staff were held up in a robbery.