Trumpet player, born September 25, 1908 in Jackson, Mississippi, died November 19, 1972 in Chicago.
Allen grew up in Chicago, where he played with Hugh Swift in 1925, Dave Peyton and Doc Cook in 1927, and Clifford Klarinet King in 1928. He later rejoined Cook, after which he played with Earl Hines 1931-1934, 1937 and Duke Ellington 1935; he recorded no solos, however. During 1940s-1950s he worked with several bands, mainly in Chicago, and was also active as music teacher.