What big band leader is credited with many of the innovations that paved the way for better-known stars like benny goodman?
a. count basie
b. fletcher henderson
c. artie shaw
d. king oliver

Fletcher Henderson

Explanation:

-Count Basie was an American musician. He created a jazz orchestra that introduced important innovations in this music and several musicians became well-known under his direction.

-Fletcher Henderson was an American musician that helped to developed big band jazz and he is considered one of the most important musicians in jazz history because of the contributions he made as he was able to create a unique sound.

-Artie Shaw was an American musician that is known as one of the best clarinetists in jazz music.

-King Oliver was an American jazz band leader and he is famous because of his unique style as he introduced the use of mutes in jazz music.

According to this, the big band leader that is credited with many of the innovations that paved the way for better-known stars like Benny Goodman is Fletcher Henderson.