But it seems it was “walla lore” at the time. This is just an example:
“That “harmful little armful” - Fats Waller—who weighs a mere 200 pounds or so and packs even more weight than that into his amazing swing style will be the attraction of attractions at Sunset Casino tonight, starting at eight o’clock. Ol’ Fatsy Watsy promises his hosts of idols here he’ll really “dig some jive”. Heard regularly over Station WATL, Fats Waller has been on the air to thrill local fans continuously for nearly two years. Waller is one of the most successful song writers and arrangers in the business. He authored “Honeysuckle Rose”, “Ain’t Misbehavin’”, “Sunny Side of the Street”, and a host of others, including his signature melody, “Spreadin’ Rhythm Around”. When “trucking” was the vogue, Fats Waller’s version of the song hit by the same name was a best seller. Its popularity spread like a forest blaze. You’ll miss a rare treat indeed if you fail to hear Ol’ Fatsy Watsy “go to town”!”
“Fats Waller ‘Digs His Jive’ Tonite.” Atlanta Daily World (Atlanta, Georgia), April 4, 1940.