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While legendary as a saxophonist, his first instrument was a violin and his second the piano — which he played well enough to work as an accompanist to silent movies. Ultimately it was Lester Young’s father who taught him the saxophone well enough that he switched instruments for good. (It was during this time that he also saved Lester from drowning in a river). Who is he?
...October 23rd, 2024
This famed jazz artist played the piano professionally as a seventh grader before switching to drums, learning to play in the styles of Chick Webb and Sid Catlett. Before forming his own band in the early 1950’s, he played with Mary Lou Williams (pictured) in New York, toured the South with Fletcher Henderson’s band, and was the drummer in Billy Eckstine’s group from 1944 – 1947. Who is he?
...September 23rd, 2024
This pianist was Billie Holiday’s regular accompanist during her last two years (1957 – 1959), and also played in the Eric Dolphy-Booker Little Quintet that recorded extensively at New York’s Five Spot in 1961. Who is he?
...August 20th, 2024
Described as a “Louis Armstrong sound-alike on both trumpet and vocals” whose recording of “On the Sunny Side of the Street” was so close to Armstrong’s live show that some listeners thought Armstrong was copying him, this trumpeter (along with Bobby Stark), was Chick Webb’s main trumpet soloist during the 1930’s. Who is he?
...July 23rd, 2024
Teddy Wilson once said this about a fellow jazz pianist:
“That man had the most phenomenal musical gifts I’ve ever heard. He was miraculous. We became such fast friends that I was allowed to interrupt him anytime he was playing at the house parties in Toledo we used to make every night.”
Who is he talking about?
...May 21st, 2024
In addition to being one of the greatest musicians of his generation, this Ohio native was an activist, leading “Jazz and People’s Movement,” a group formed in the late 1960’s who “adopted the tactic of interrupting tapings and broadcasts of television and radio programs (i.e. the shows of Johnny Carson, Dick Cavett [pictured] and Merv Griffin) in protest of the small number of African-American musicians employed by networks and recording studios.” Who was he?
...April 16th, 2024
This bassist played with (among others) Charlie Parker, Erroll Garner, Nat King Cole and Dexter Gordon, was one of the earliest modern jazz tuba soloists, and was the only player to turn down offers to join both Duke Ellington’s Orchestra and the Louis Armstrong All-Stars. Who is he?
...March 1st, 2024
This trumpeter was in the 1932 car accident that took the life of famed saxophonist Frankie Techemacher (pictured), and is best remembered for his work with Eddie Condon’s bands. Who was he?
...December 13th, 2023
In addition to being a top bassist between 1945 – 1960, he was the first major jazz soloist on the cello. He also played on Coleman Hawkins’ 1943 recording of “The Man I Love,” and appeared with Hawkins and Howard McGhee in the film The Crimson Canary. Who is he?
...November 2nd, 2023
Before becoming one of television’s biggest stars, he was a competent ragtime and jazz piano player greatly influenced by Scott Joplin, and employed a band of New Orleans musicians similar to the Original Dixieland Jazz Band to play during his New York vaudeville revue. Who was he?
...September 15th, 2023
This jazz legend’s career included early work with Kid Ory in Barney Bigard’s group in 1942, a tour the following year with Louis Armstrong, and stints with Lionel Hampton, Red Norvo, Art Tatum and Stan Getz. His last project was a late 1970’s collaboration with a famous female folk-rock singer. Who is he?
...August 9th, 2023
Best known as the trumpeter who replaced Cootie Williams in Duke Ellington’s orchestra, he was also one of the finest jazz violinists of the 1940’s. Who was he?
...July 13th, 2023
He is best known for writing “(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66” — which Nat Cole made famous in 1946 — but his earliest musical success came with the song “Daddy,” recorded in 1941 by Sammy Kaye and His Orchestra, which was the #1 record for eight weeks. He was also famous for being married to the glamorous singer Julie London. Who is he?
...May 30th, 2023
Although he was an accomplished bandleader whose 1932 – 1936 band became the nucleus of the first Woody Herman Orchestra, his most important contribution to music is as a songwriter, whose work includes “It Had to Be You,” “I’ll See You in My Dreams,” and “There is No Greater Love.” Who is he?
...April 11th, 2023
This saxophonist — described by Art Blakey as knowing more about the saxophone (technically) than anyone, including Charlie Parker — was a soloist in the bands of Don Redman and Lionel Hampton, was an influence on John Coltrane, and ultimately became a prolific R&B bandleader. Who was he?
...March 14th, 2023
In addition to composing the theme to films like Mission Impossible, The Cincinnati Kid, Dirty Harry and Cool Hand Luke, this pianist was Dizzy Gillespie’s musical director from 1960 – 1962. Who is he?
...February 10th, 2023
Though his work as pianist with the Savoy Sultans, Coleman Hawkins, Roy Eldridge and Sonny Stitt/Gene Ammons was important, he will always be most remembered as the pianist in Charlie Parker’s classic 1947 quintet. Who is he?
...January 21st, 2023
Although he was not considered to be a true jazz singer, along with Bing Crosby, this “Romeo of Radio”’s short-lived, early 1930’s career influenced Italian crooners like Perry Como (pictured), as well as Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Herb Jeffries and Billy Eckstine. Who is he?
...December 27th, 2022
Besides being one of the first to be influenced by Charlie Christian, in 1944 this electric guitarist employed Charlie Parker on his first recording date and eventually led an R&B-oriented group “The Rockin’ Highlanders” that featured the saxophonist Red Prysock (pictured). Who is he?
...November 10th, 2022
According to the All Music Guide to Jazz, this bassist “probably appeared on more records than any other musician in the world,” recording on “everything from Jackie Gleason mood music and polka bands to commercials and Buck Clayton jam sessions.” Who was he?
...October 8th, 2022
Originally a saxophonist, this drummer played on Coleman Hawkins’ classic “The Man I Love” sessions of late 1943, and played with Stan Kenton for several years before leading his own band, starting in 1953. Who was he?
...August 26th, 2022
This pianist – known for his tasteful swinging and bop-based style – was Ella Fitzgerald’s regular accompanist from 1963 – 1965, and again from 1968 – 1978. Who was he?
...July 22nd, 2022
This trumpeter played on almost all of Dinah Washington’s recordings, even if he had to do so under the pseudonym of “Dobbie Hicks.” Who is he?
...May 22nd, 2022
This Texas tenor player – whose style straddled the boundaries between swing and R&B – succeeded Illinois Jacquet in Lionel Hampton’s orchestra in 1942. Who is he?
...April 15th, 2022
Prior to Jack Teagarden, this trombonist — who gained a strong reputation playing with the Original Memphis Five and Red Nichols — was the most advanced in jazz. He and his band backed Sophie Tucker on her 1924 recording of “Red Hot Mama,” and he eventually went on to play with Paul Whiteman, Benny Goodman and Eddie Condon. Who was he?
...February 4th, 2022
“Mrs. Swing”’s most famous recording was written by Hoagy Carmichael, and was recorded with a small group of musicians from Paul Whiteman’s orchestra. Who was “Mrs. Swing”?
...January 4th, 2022
Virtually all recordings of this influential trumpet player are available, but the only known film footage of him is in a 1955 appearance on the Soupy Sales variety show, which was one year before his death. Who is he?
...December 16th, 2021
This lifelong friend of Duke Ellington co-wrote “Sophisticated Lady,” played clarinet, violin, baritone and alto saxophone during his first stint in Ellington’s band (prior to leaving in 1928), and, following time in a band that also included Fats Waller and Chu Berry, returned to Duke’s orchestra, where he would play until 1946. Who was he?
...November 12th, 2021
Often described as one of the “great jokesters in jazz,” this trumpeter became a popular figure on the west coast who, in addition to playing with artists like Stan Kenton, Benny Goodman, Jimmy Giuffre and Art Pepper, also starred in a short-lived TV series called Run Buddy Run. Who is he?
Don Ellis
Ruby Braff
Shorty Rogers
Red Rodney
Jack Sheldon
Al Hirt
...September 24th, 2021
This saxophonist – best known for his Blue Note soul-jams of the 1960s – replaced John Coltrane in Earl Bostic’s early R&B/jazz band, played in Max Roach’s band after his time in the military, and was married to the organist Shirley Scott. Who is he?
.
Jimmy Scott
Benny Golson
Tom Scott
Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis
Eddie Harris
James Moody
Lou Donaldson
Stanley Turrentine
...July 28th, 2021
This pianist was Billie Holiday’s regular accompanist during her last two years (1957 – 1959), and also played in the Eric Dolphy-Booker Little Quintet that recorded extensively at New York’s Five Spot in 1961. Who is he?
Mal Waldron
Al Haig
Duke Jordan
Hampton Hawes
Joe Albany
George Wallington
...July 1st, 2021
This one-armed Dixieland trumpeter and “jive” vocalist’s 1930 song “Tar Paper Stomp” used a riff that later became the basis for Glenn Miller’s recording of “In the Mood.” Who is he?
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Wingy Manone
Louis Prima
Charlie Teagarden
Humphrey Lyttelton
Muggsy Spanier
Yank Lawson
Mutt Carey
...May 4th, 2021
This pioneer pianist of the bop era had short term associations with Benny Carter, Boyd Raeburn, Lester Young, and Charlie Parker, but led such a troubled life that he only recorded once between 1947 – 1971. Who is he?
Mel Powell
Jess Stacy
Joe Albany
Dodo Marmarosa
Lennie Tristano
Al Haig
Hampton Hawes
Phineas Newborn
...March 11th, 2021
When this bandleader temporarily retired in 1936, key members of his band became the nucleus of the first Woody Herman Orchestra. Who is he?
Charlie Barnet
Isham Jones
Dick Jurgens
Horace Heidt
Skinnay Ennis
Jimmy Dorsey
Charlie Spivak
Fred Waring
...February 1st, 2021
This radio star, actor, teen idol and post-Al Jolson singer specializing in sweet ballads was also an alto saxophonist who allegedly inspired a young Charlie Parker. Who was he?
...November 30th, 2020
Prior to his time with Stan Kenton’s Innovations Orchestra, this trumpeter — who some have said could play higher than any other trumpeter up to that point in history — gained experience with the big bands of Boyd Raeburn, Jimmy Dorsey and Charlie Barnet. Who is he?
...October 5th, 2020
Although he had success as a bandleader in the 1930’s, he is best known for being manager of Harlem’s Minton’s Playhouse during the birth of bebop. Who was he?
Luis Russell
Don Redman
Jimmie Lunceford
Erskine Hawkins
Chick Webb
Jay McShann
Andy Kirk
Teddy Hill
...August 7th, 2020
. . photo by William Gottlieb/Library of Congress Nat “King” Cole, Paramount Theater, New York, N.Y., ca. Nov. 1946 . ___ . This bassist played with (among others) Charlie Parker, Erroll Garner, Art Tatum, Nat “King” Cole (pictured), Dexter Gordon, James Taylor and Rickie Lee Jones, and was one of the earliest modern … Continue reading “Jazz History Quiz #139”
...June 30th, 2020
Shortly following their famed 1938 Carnegie Hall performance, Benny Goodman’s drummer Gene Krupa left the band to start his own. Who replaced Krupa as Goodman’s drummer?
...May 20th, 2020
After playing a 1950 concert in Hartford, Connecticut with a pick-up rhythm section trio, Stan Getz hired them, which included Walter Bolden on drums and Joe Calloway on bass. Who was the trio’s pianist?
.
Cecil Taylor
Barry Harris
Wynton Kelly
Phineas Newborn
Tommy Flanagan
Hank Jones
George Shearing
Horace Silver
.
Go to the next page for the answer!
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...April 20th, 2020
Influenced by Charlie Parker and Phil Woods (pictured), before forming his own group this alto player got his start in Buddy Rich’s Big Band, and shortly thereafter played with Lionel Hampton. While leading his own band, he was famous for playing bebop covers of songs such as “The I Love Lucy Theme,” “Come Fly With Me,” and “Hooray for Hollywood,” and often performed with singer Eddie Jefferson. Who is he?
...February 26th, 2020
This musician first recorded with Ben Pollack’s band in 1936, and then joined Benny Goodman’s band in 1937. He eventually started his own band, in which Frank Sinatra sang for a short time in 1939. In 1941 he recorded “You Made Me Love You (I Didn’t Want to Do It”), which made him a star, and second only to Glenn Miller in popularity in 1942. Who is he?
...January 10th, 2020
This legendary saxophonist has worked with Lionel Hampton, Johnny Hodges, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey, and Art Farmer, and has become known as much for his compositions as the greatness of his horn playing, having written standards like “I Remember Clifford,” “Killer Joe,” and “Along Came Betty.” Who is he?
...December 11th, 2019
This guitarist was an original member of the Chico Hamilton Quintet, toured with Ella Fitzgerald, and was part of Sonny Rollins’s quartet that recorded the 1962 album The Bridge. Who is he?
Joe Pass
Pat Martino
Grant Green
Tal Farlow
Herb Ellis
Kenny Burrell
Johnny Smith
Jim Hall
...October 17th, 2019
One of the last of the great pianists who emerged from Detroit following World War II, in addition to playing with Benny Goodman, Charles Mingus (pictured), and the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra, he was given knighthood from the President of Liberia in 1970. Who is he?
.
Hank Jones
Roland Hanna
Barry Harris
Tommy Flanagan
Kenny Drew
Wynton Kelly
Randy Weston
Ahmad Jamal
.
Go to the next page for the answer!
...July 23rd, 2019
This musician has been an inspiration to many contemporary jazz artists. An original member of the Chico Hamilton Quintet, he also worked with Sonny Rollins, toured with Ella Fitzgerald, co-led a quartet with Art Farmer (pictured), and occasionally recorded with Paul Desmond and Bill Evans. Who is he?
...June 26th, 2019
Although he was famous for modernizing the sound of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra (“On the Sunny Side of the Street” was his biggest hit while working for Dorsey), this arranger will forever be best-known for his work for the Jimmie Lunceford Orchestra. Who is he?
...May 22nd, 2019
Before his tragic early death, this trumpeter played with Max Roach, Abbey Lincoln, and John Coltrane, and most famously during a 1961 Five Spot gig with Eric Dolphy. Who is he?
.
Fats Navarro
Booker Little
Howard McGhee
Kenny Dorham
Red Rodney
Lee Morgan
Blue Mitchell
Clifford Brown
Go to the next page for the answer!
...April 25th, 2019
In 1964, along with the orchestra of arranger Lalo Schifrin (pictured), this flutist/alto sax player recorded one of the first “Jazz Masses,” and soon after studied transcendental meditation in India. He would eventually become well known as a composer of music for meditation. Who is he?
Paul Winter
Herbie Mann
Anthony Braxton
John Tchicai
Paul Horn
Arthur Blythe
David Sanborn
Paul McCandless
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...
April 11th, 2019
Upon replacing Cootie Williams (pictured), this trumpeter’s very first night with Duke Ellington’s Orchestra was fully documented during the band’s famous November 7, 1940 Fargo, North Dakota concert. Who is he?
Ray Nance
Rex Stewart
Cat Anderson
Lawrence Brown
Shorty Baker
Johnny Coles
Go to the next page for the answer!
...March 16th, 2019
Before he became popular with a non-jazz audience by recording swing standards and show tunes with his quartet, this artist was an important trumpeter for two decades, playing on a riverboat in the 1920’s, and in the orchestras of Horace Henderson, Lil Armstrong, McKinney’s Cotton Pickers, Stuff Smith (pictured) and Cab Calloway. His first hit was “On the Street Where You Live.” Who is he?
...February 23rd, 2019
The classic song “My Funny Valentine” was part of a musical, .Babes in Arms, that also included the songs “Where or When,” “I Wish I Were in Love Again,” and “The Lady is a Tramp.” Who wrote the music and lyrics of this 1937 musical?
...February 9th, 2019
. . . This trumpeter began his career in California, where he organized a big band that had a residency in China in 1934, and, during a trip through Kansas City in 1936, was invited to join Count Basie’s orchestra, replacing “Hot Lips” Page. Who is he? . Ray Nance Buck Clayton Charlie Shavers … Continue reading “Jazz History Quiz #122”
...January 8th, 2019
_____ During a 1927 session with the McKenzie-Condon Chicagoans, he became the first musician to use a full drum set on records. Who is he? Vic Berton Dave Tough Ben Pollack Gene Krupa Baby Dodds Zutty Singleton Sonny Greer Go to the next page for the answer!
...December 4th, 2018
Before recording with Benny Carter in 1956 and then recording three albums for Riverside between 1957 – 1959, Anna Maria Woolridge was a “lightweight” supper-club singer who went through several name changes, ultimately becoming “Mrs. Max Roach.” Who was Anna Maria Woolridge?
Mary Lou Williams
Dinah Washington
Abbey Lincoln
Melba Liston
Sheila Jordan
Lorez Alexandria
Irene Kral
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...
October 5th, 2018
Born Edward Chester Babcock, this American composer wrote songs for films, television and theater, and won four Academy Awards for Best Original Song, including in 1944 for “Swinging on a Star,” co-written by Johnny Burke and made famous by Bing Crosby in the film Going My Way. Who is he?
Jimmy Van Heusen
Irving Berlin
Harold Arlen
Cole Porter
Jerome Kern
Harry Warren
Richard Rodgers
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September 5th, 2018
This artist sang with Paul Whiteman, and later with the Casa Loma Orchestra. In 1939, she became the first singer to devote an entire album to the music of one composer – George Gershwin. It was such a success that she followed it up with the music of Cole Porter (1940), Rogers and Hart (1940 and 1954), Harold Arlen (1943) and Irving Berlin (1951). Who is she?
Helen Ward
Mildred Bailey
Lee Wiley
Ella Fitzgerald
Maxine Sullivan
Helen Forrest
Helen Humes
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August 8th, 2018
This jazz pianist was considered a child prodigy. At the age of 11, he soloed in the first movement of a Mozart piano concerto with the Chicago Symphony. His 1962 debut Blue Note album, Takin’ Off, included a song that the Afro-Cuban Latin jazz percussionist Mongo Santamaria recorded and made popular – reaching #10 on the pop song charts in 1963. The pianist reworked the song in 1973, which he included on an album that helped redefine jazz music. Who is he?
Keith Jarrett
Cecil Taylor
Horace Silver
Les McCann
Ramsey Lewis
Erroll Garner
Herbie Hancock
McCoy Tyner
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...July 18th, 2018
While he was a jazz pianist known to frequently accompany blues singers, he was also a composer (“Royal Garden Blues,” “West End Blues,” “Taint Nobody’s Business If I Do”), show producer, song publisher, emcee with a minstrel show, artist manager (including Bessie Smith, whom he helped get started), A & R man for Okeh Records, and one of the most successful African American businessmen of his era. Who is he?
Meade Lux Lewis
Albert Ammons
Eddie Heywood
Teddy Wilson
Jimmy Blythe
Clarence Williams
Tommy Flanagan
Herbie Nichols
Jimmy Rowles
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June 22nd, 2018
While legendary as a saxophonist, his first instrument was a violin and his second the piano — which he played well enough to work as an accompanist to silent movies. Ultimately it was Lester Young’s father who taught him the saxophone well enough that he switched instruments for good. (It was during this time that he also saved Lester from drowning in a river). Who is he?
Ben Webster
Chu Berry
Gene Ammons
Budd Johnson
Coleman Hawkins
Johnny Hodges
Don Byas
Herschel Evans
Go to the next page for the answer!
...June 13th, 2018
Before recording his most notable work (to that point) as a saxophonist in Miles Davis’ “Birth of the Cool” nonet, his initial reputation was as an arranger, including a stint in 1946 as the staff arranger in Gene Krupa’s Orchestra. He would eventually become one of the leading voices on his instrument for almost 50 years. Who is he?
Kai Winding
Gil Evans
Lee Konitz
Gerry Mulligan
J.J. Johnson
Al McKibbon
Max Roach
Sonny Stitt
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...
May 23rd, 2018
This bassist played in Ornette Coleman’s early bands before eventually leading the Liberation Music Orchestra, where he became known as one of free jazz’s founding fathers. Who is he?
Jaco Pastorius
Charlie Haden
Stanley Clarke
Dave Holland
Ron Carter
Jimmy Garrison
Steve Swallow
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...
April 18th, 2018
Recognized as jazz fusion’s most prominent drummer, he was a key contributor on some of the genre’s most successful early recordings – including with Miles Davis and the Mahavishnu Orchestra. Who is he?
Billy Cobham
Billy Hart
Jack DeJohnette
Tony Williams
Steve Gadd
Alphonse Mouzon
Lenny White
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...February 3rd, 2018
According to BMI, “The Christmas Song”(a.k.a. “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire”) is the most performed Christmas song, made especially famous by Nat Cole. The song was written, according to one of the co-writers, during a blistering hot summer, and in an effort “to stay cool by thinking cool.” Bob Wells was one of the songwriters of this classic 1945 tune…Who was his co-writer?
Mel Torme
Irving Berlin
Cole Porter
Bing Crosby
Benny Goodman
George Gershwin
Lionel Hampton
Duke Ellington
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December 21st, 2017
Upon leaving Charlie Barnet’s orchestra in 1941, this trumpeter wanted to start his own group, and, with the help of publicist/journalist Leonard Feather, became the first white leader in jazz history to organize an all-black group. Who was he?
Mugsy Spanier
Bunny Berigan
Bob Burnet
Harry James
Ziggy Elman
Bobby Hackett
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November 21st, 2017
In 1952, this trumpeter made his recording debut with the R&B group Chris Powell’s Blue Flames. The following year, he toured Europe with Lionel Hampton’s band and led some recording sessions. In early 1954, he recorded brilliant solos at Birdland with Art Blakey’s quintet, and by mid-year had formed a quintet with Max Roach. Who is he?
Freddie Hubbard
Booker Little
Clifford Brown
Fats Navarro
Kenny Dorham
Lee Morgan
Art Farmer
Donald Byrd
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...November 8th, 2017
This pianist was a founding member of the Jazz Epistles, and was nicknamed “South Africa’s Monk”? Who is he?
Phineas Newborn
Ahmad Jamal
Randy Weston
Albert Ammons
Dollar Brand
Roland Hanna
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October 12th, 2017
Before his popularity peaked in the mid-1960’s with a #2 pop chart hit, this pianist’s trio included bassist Eldee Young and drummer Red Holt, and was initially known as the Gentlemen of Swing. Who was the piano player?
Duke Jordan
Ramsey Lewis
Ahmad Jamal
Keith Jarrett
Billy Taylor
Dave Brubeck
George Shearing
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August 1st, 2017
This trumpeter played with many famous bands in the 1940’s — including Lionel Hampton’s in 1941 — participated in the fabled bop sessions at Minton’s Playhouse and Monroe’s Uptown House, and is known as the “missing link” between trumpeters Roy Eldridge and Fats Navarro. Who is he?
Ruby Braff
Howard McGhee
Kenny Dorham
Freddie Hubbard
Buck Clayton
Benny Carter
Clifford Brown
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June 25th, 2017
This pianist with a “categorization problem” is known primarily for his songwriting. His songs have been recorded by the Who, Leon Russell and Bonnie Raitt, and is admired by the likes of Tom Waits, John Mayall, the Rolling Stones and Van Morrison. He credited the songwriter Percy Mayfield, “the Poet Laureate of the Blues,” as being a major inspiration on his songwriting. Who is he?
Dave Frishberg
Mose Allison
Ramsey Lewis
Phineas Newborn, Jr.
Vince Guaraldi
Tommy Flanagan
Paul Bley
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April 10th, 2017
As a child, this vocalist — most famous as the “canary female” in the pioneering ensemble that revolutionized vocal music with the 1957 album Sing a Song of Basie — had an acting role in the Our Gang series. Who is she?
June Christie
Chris Conner
Annie Ross
Julie London
Helen Morgan
Martha Raye
Jo Stafford
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...March 6th, 2017
In addition to co-leading a quintet with Zoot Sims, this tenor saxophonist may be best known as the man who replaced Herbie Steward as one of the “Four Brothers” in Woody Herman’s Second Herd. Who is he?
Art Pepper
Al Cohn
Stan Getz
Bob Cooper
Charlie Ventura
Boots Mussulli
Charlie Mariano
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...January 26th, 2017
Best known as the trumpeter who replaced Cootie Williams in Duke Ellington’s orchestra, he was also one of the finest jazz violinists of the 1940’s. Who was he?
Eddie South
Claude Williams
Stuff Smith
Johnny Dunn
Ray Nance
Tommy Ladnier
Jabbo Smith
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...October 28th, 2016
Who was occasionally billed as “The World’s Fastest Saxophonist”?
Illinois Jacquet
Flip Phillips
Ike Quebec
Charlie Ventura
Charlie Parker
Arnett Cobb
Johnny Griffin
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June 23rd, 2016
This saxophonist’s first important jobs were during the 1940’s with Lionel Hampton, Fletcher Henderson, Louis Armstrong’s big band, and Billy Eckstine’s Orchestra. Additionally, he was a Savoy Records recording artist as a leader before being an important part of the scene on Los Angeles’ Central Avenue. Who was he?
Stan Getz
Wardell Gray
Dexter Gordon
Bob Cooper
Gene Ammons
Sonny Stitt
Brew Moore
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April 14th, 2016
This pioneer pianist of the bop era had short term associations with Benny Carter, Boyd Raeburn, Lester Young, and Charlie Parker, but led such a troubled life that he only recorded once between 1947 – 1971. Who is he?
Mel Powell
Jess Stacy
Joe Albany
Dodo Marmarosa
Lennie Tristano
Al Haig
Hampton Hawes
Phineas Newborn
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March 1st, 2016
Throughout his career, this saxophonist was known as the “Vice Prez” because he sounded so similar to Lester Young. Who was he?
Earl Bostic
Paul Quinichette
Ben Webster
Coleman Hawkins
Johnny Hodges
Arnett Cobb
Herschel Evans
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...January 13th, 2016
This self proclaimed “reformed boogie-woogie player” got his start filling in for Art Tatum in San Francisco’s famed Black Hawk club, and was eventually known in San Francisco music circles as “Dr. Funk.” In addition to having a gold record with his 1963 hit “Cast Your Fate to the Wind,” he is also known as the pianist on the recording A Charlie Brown Christmas, one of the top selling Christmas records of all time. Who is he?
Russ Freeman
Vince Guaraldi
Lennie Tristano
Bobby Troup
Monty Alexander
George Shearing
Dave McKenna
Dave Frishberg
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December 24th, 2015
This definitive New Orleans trombonist of the 1920’s was a member of the band Spike’s Seven Pods of Pepper Orchestra (featuring Mutt Carey and Dink Johnson), which was the first black band from New Orleans to make a jazz recording on the west coast. Who was he?
Jimmy Harrison
Miff Mole
Kid Ory
George Brunis
Honore Dutrey
J.C. Higinbotham
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...December 4th, 2015
Prior to his time with Stan Kenton’s Innovations Orchestra , this trumpeter — who some have said could play higher than any other trumpeter up to that point in history — gained experience with the big bands of Boyd Raeburn, Jimmy Dorsey and Charlie Barnet. Who is he?
Bill Coleman
Maynard Ferguson
Shorty Baker
Ruby Braff
Conte Candoli
Conrad Gozzo
Jack Sheldon
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...November 8th, 2015
Long admired by the likes of Tom Waits, John Mayall, and the Rolling Stones, and having had his songs recorded by Bonnie Raitt (“Everybody’s Cryin’ Mercy”), Leon Russell (“I’m Smashed”), and The Who (“Young Man Blues”), this pianist/vocalist has long suffered from a “category” problem, once even saying; “There’s a lot of places I don’t work because they’re confused about what I do.” Who is he?
Bob Dorough
Mose Allison
Paul Bley
Bob Dorough
Dave Frishberg
Ben Sidran
Dave McKenna
Monty Alexander
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...September 7th, 2015
Known early in his career (when with Chick Webb) as a Louis Armstrong sound-alike both on trumpet and on vocals, his recording of “On the Sunny Side of the Street” sounded so much like Armstrong’s live version that people actually thought it was Armstrong who was copying this trumpeter. Who is he?
Taft Jordan
Jimmy McPartland
Ruby Braff
Frankie Newton
Snooky Young
Shorty Baker
Red Allen
Hot Lips Page
...August 12th, 2015
Besides being one of the first to be influenced by Charlie Christian, in 1944 this electric guitarist employed Charlie Parker on his first recording date and eventually led an R&B-oriented group “The Rockin’ Highlanders” that featured the saxophonist Red Prysock. Who is he?
Herb Ellis
Tiny Grimes
Grant Green
Wes Montgomery
Eddie Lang
Freddie Green
Mundell Lowe
Go to the next page for the answer!
...July 1st, 2015
Following Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1968 assassination, this famous singer was offered unofficial leadership in the civil rights movement by King’s widow, Coretta Scott King. Who is she?
Ethel Waters
Aretha Franklin
Josephine Baker
Ivie Anderson
Dinah Washington
Carmen McRae
Alberta Hunter
Go to the next page for the answer!
...May 22nd, 2015
While he had a long career in jazz, including stints with, among others, Coleman Hawkins, Roy Eldridge, Sonny Stitt and Stan Getz, he will always be remembered primarily as the pianist in Charlie Parker’s classic 1947 quintet. Who is he?
Duke Jordan
Lennie Tristano
Mel Powell
Bud Powell
Al Haig
George Wallington
Hampton Hawes
Go to the next page for the answer!
...April 27th, 2015
This pianist wrote his first ragtime composition (“The Charleston Rag”) in 1899, became a songwriter of Broadway shows in the 1920s, and, before dying five days after his 100th birthday, became known as “the last living link to ragtime.” Who is he?
James P. Johnson
Scott Joplin
Tony Jackson
Eubie Blake
Cliff Jackson
Fats Waller
Jelly Roll Morton
Go to the next page for the answer!
...February 16th, 2015
This pianist was Billie Holiday’s regular accompanist during her last two years (1957 – 1959), and also played in the Eric Dolphy-Booker Little Quintet that recorded extensively at New York’s Five Spot in 1961. Who is he?
Mal Waldron
Al Haig
Duke Jordan
Hampton Hawes
Joe Albany
George Wallington
Go to the next page for the answer!
...January 27th, 2015
This Dixieland cornetist was an original member of the legendary Austin High School Gang (pictured) in the 1920’s, and was Bix Beiderbecke’s replacement in the Wolverines. He was eventually a featured soloist (along with Benny Goodman) in Ben Pollack’s band. Who is he?
Wingy Manone
Jimmy McPartland
Rex Stewart
Frankie Newton
Nat Gonella
Max Kaminsky
Sharkey Bonano
Go to the next page for the answer!
January 8th, 2015
He is best known for writing “(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66” — which Nat Cole made famous in 1946 — but his earliest musical success came with the song “Daddy,” recorded in 1941 by Sammy Kaye and His Orchestra, which was the #1 record for eight weeks. He was also famous for being married to the glamorous singer Julie London. Who is he?
Joe Albany
Jess Stacy
Russ Freeman
Pete Jolly
Dave Frishberg
Bobby Troup
Go to the next page for the answer!
...December 29th, 2014
Once the most advanced trombonist in jazz, in addition to his time with the Original Memphis Five (starting in 1922), he is best known for his recordings with cornetist Red Nichols. Who is he?
J.C. Higginbotham
Tricky Sam Nanton
Lawrence Brown
Dickie Wells
Jack Teagarden
Miff Mole
Trummy Young
Go to the next page for the answer!
...December 8th, 2014
In 1956, this singer appeared in the film The Girl Can’t Help It, in which she wore a dress that had been worn by Marilyn Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. She also appeared in several other films (including Spike Lee’s 1990 movie Mo’ Better Blues), and received a Golden Globe nomination for her role in the film For Love of Ivy. Who is she?
Helen Humes
Betty Carter
Abbey Lincoln
Sarah Vaughan
Shirley Horn
Ivie Anderson
Ethel Waters
...November 11th, 2014
Described by one reviewer as “one of the pioneers of this raucous, rapid-fire, eight-to-the-bar piano style,” this pianist was active in Chicago from 1915 but remained unrecorded until 1939. In addition to his work as a pianist, during World War I he played baseball for the Negro Baseball League’s Chicago All-Americans, and was a groundskeeper for the Chicago White Sox throughout his life. Who is he?
Pete Johnson
James P. Johnson
Albert Ammons
Meade Lux Lewis
Luckey Roberts
Cliff Jackson
Jimmy Yancey
Tony Jackson
...October 20th, 2014
Charles Mingus called him “the greatest trumpet player that I’ve heard in this life,” and he became well-known during his nine years playing in Count Basie’s orchestra, taking a “Pop Goes the Weasel” chorus on “April in Paris.” Who is he?
Roy Eldridge
Charlie Shavers
Ray Nance
Cat Anderson
Bill Coleman
Joe Newman
Thad Jones
...October 6th, 2014
This popular music singer once sang backup with her vocal group the Pied Pipers in Tommy Dorsey’s band and occasionally performed under the pseudonym “Darlene Edwards.” By 1955, she had sold more records than any other female artist, and one of her songs was the first record by a woman to reach #1 on the U.K. Singles Chart. Who is she?
Anita O’Day
Jo Stafford
Helen Merrill
Peggy Lee
Chris Connor
Carmen McRae
Lena Horne
Mildred Bailey
...September 29th, 2014
This trumpeter played in the bands of Lionel Hampton and Andy Kirk, and was a prominent figure in the transition from swing to bop, even described as the “missing link” between Roy Eldridge and Fats Navarro. Who is he?
Kenny Dorham
Clark Terry
Bill Coleman
Howard McGhee
Freddie Webster
Jonah Jones
Charlie Shavers
...September 22nd, 2014
This pianist worked with (among others) the bands of Bunny Berigan, Tommy Dorsey and Benny Goodman, and was Bing Crosby’s musical director at the time of Crosby’s death in 1977. Who is he?
...September 15th, 2014
Maurice Ravel acknowledged basing his Boléro on an improvisation of this clarinetist, who was also influential in the careers of Benny Goodman and Nat Cole, who made famous this musician’s theme song, “Sweet Lorraine.” Who is he?
Sidney Bechet
Johnny Doods
Jimmy Noone
Wilbur Sweatman
Frankie Teschemacher
Buster Bailey
Ted Lewis
...August 25th, 2014
This posthumously-awarded Grammy winning musician/composer was the pianist and arranger for the vocal group The Hi-Lo’s in the late 1950’s, and after working with Donald Byrd and Dizzy Gillespie became known for his Latin and bossa nova recordings in the 1960’s. He was also frequently cited by Herbie Hancock as a “major influence.” Who is he?
Buddy Bregman
Lalo Schifrin
Clare Fischer
Tito Puente
George Shearing
George Russell
Cal Tjader
...August 11th, 2014
Known as “Mr. Entertainment,” this clarinetist’s band was second only to Paul Whiteman’s (pictured) in popularity during the 1920s. Who is he?
Fred Waring
Noble Sissle
Rudy Vallee
Ben Pollack
Phil Harris
Ted Lewis
...August 4th, 2014
Playing at Los Angeles’ Cocoanut Grove club, and featuring singers that included Bing Crosby, this bandleader led the top West Coast big band during the 20’s and 30’s. Who was he?
Ben Bernie
Gus Arnheim
Paul Whiteman
Ted Lewis
Jean Goldkette
Ben Pollack
Fred Waring
...July 28th, 2014
Who was known as the “middleweight champion of the tenor saxophone?”
Dony Byas
Gato Barbieri
Chu Berry
Gene Ammons
Sonny Stitt
Stan Getz
Hank Mobley
Chico Freeman
...July 14th, 2014
This tenor saxophonist played with Hoagy Carmichael’s Teenagers, as well as Buddy Rich, Lennie Tristano (pictured), and Lee Konitz. He collapsed and died on stage at Los Angeles’ Donte’s club in 1987 while playing “Out of Nowhere.” Who is he?
John Gilmore
Chico Freeman
Warne Marsh
Ted Brown
Al Cohn
Bob Cooper
Buddy Tate
Buddy Collette
Go to the next page or the answer!
...July 7th, 2014
Virtually all recordings of this influential trumpet player are available, but the only known film footage of him is in a 1955 appearance on the Soupy Sales variety show, which was one year before his death. Who is he?
Booker Little
Clifford Brown
Donald Byrd
Lee Morgan
Freddie Hubbard
Art Farmer
Roy Eldridge
Fats Navarro
...June 30th, 2014
After joining Billy Eckstine’s band in 1944, Eckstine named this new band mate “Jug” when straw hats ordered for the band did not fit. Who is he?
Sonny Stitt
Sonny Clark
Jackie McLean
Gene Ammons
Dexter Gordon
Tadd Dameron
Fats Navarro
...June 23rd, 2014
In the mid-1950’s, after a failed audition for the Benny Goodman band, this drummer found work in New York, toured with Charles Mingus’s band, and performed on J.J. Johnson’s J Is for Jazz. Who is he?
Jimmy Cobb
Joe Morello
Clifford Jarvis
Philly Joe Jones
Jo Jones
Joe Chambers
Jack De Johnette
Elvin Jones
...June 16th, 2014
Before becoming a full time musician, this pianist was a welterweight boxer who once fought “Sugar” Ray Robinson. Who is he?
Red Garland
Mel Powell
John Lewis
Billy Taylor
Elmo Hope
Wynton Kelly
Barry Harris
Hank Jones
...June 9th, 2014
This bassist played with Charlie Barnet (pictured) in 1942, was on the recording session of Coleman Hawkins’ “The Man I Love,” appeared in a mystery movie called The Crimson Canary, “inadvertently” discovered Cannonball Adderley, and is considered the pioneer of the cello as a solo instrument in jazz. Who is he?
Milt Hinton
Jimmy Blanton
Oscar Pettiford
Charles Mingus
Charlie Haden
Red Callendar
Curly Russell
Walter Page
...June 2nd, 2014
Between 1933 – 1938, this legendary arranger led his own band in California that eventually became the backup group for Skinnay Ennis. Who is he?
Sy Oliver
Stan Kenton
George Russell
Quincy Jones
Pete Rugolo
Jimmy Giuffre
Gil Evans
...May 26th, 2014
This trumpeter was the spark plug in Gene Krupa’s band, and was known as “Little Jazz”. Who is he?
Dizzy Gillespie
Roy Eldridge
Fats Navarro
Chet Baker
Shorty Rogers
Conte Condoli
Bunny Berigan
Jonah Jones
...May 12th, 2014
In February, 1928, a large ad in Variety heralded this Chicago-based orchestra’s arrival in New York, referring to it as “THE BIG ORCHESTRA WITH THE LITTLE LEADER.” This orchestra featured some of the biggest future talents in popular music. Who was the orchestra’s leader?
Jean Goldkette
Jimmie Lunceford
Luis Russell
Tommy Dorsey
Ben Pollack
Bob Crosby
Charlie Barnet
Paul Whiteman
...May 5th, 2014
Ken Nordine’s first “Word Jazz” recording featured a band who worked under the alias of the “Fred Katz Group.” Who was its leader?
Bob Brookmeyer
Stan Getz
Zoot Sims
Hank Mobley
Elmo Hope
Lee Morgan
Stan Kenton
Chico Hamilton
...April 28th, 2014
While a member of Lionel Hampton’s band, his “Flying Home” solo was considered to be the first R&B sax solo. Who was he?
Johnny Board
Eddie Chamblee
James Moody
Buddy Tate
Illinois Jacquet
Frank Foster
Willie Smith
Dexter Gordon
...
April 21st, 2014
This artist may be best known as the author of a book whose concept was playing jazz based on scales rather than chord changes — a theory that helped pave the way for the modal revolutions of Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Who is he?
Herbie Nichols
Bill Evans
George Russell
Lennie Tristano
Gil Evans
Anthony Braxton
Tadd Dameron
...
April 14th, 2014
In 1938, Charlie Parker stayed in this musician’s New York apartment, despite the wife’s objections. Who is he?
Roy Eldridge
Coleman Hawkins
Billy Eckstine
Art Tatum
Dizzy Gillespie
Lester Young
Kenny Clarke
Buster Smith
...April 7th, 2014
In 1949, this artist coined the phrase “Bop for the People,” which implied a more accessible form of the music. Who is he?
Charlie Ventura
Lionel Hampton
Red Norvo
Gene Krupa
Zoot Sims
Stan Getz
...March 31st, 2014
In 1929, this trumpeter replaced Bubber Miley in Duke Ellington’s band. Who was he?
Red Allen
Rex Stewart
Ziggy Elman
...March 24th, 2014
Known as “Mule,” this bassist was also known for singing along with his bowed solos (much like Slam Stewart). Who was he?
Major Holley
Oscar Pettiford
Curley Russell
Tommy Potter
Gene Ramey
Buster Williams
Red Callender
John Kirby
...March 17th, 2014
Who was known as the “middleweight champion of the tenor?”
John Coltrane
Johnny Griffin
Ike Quebec
Gene Ammons
Hank Mobley
Eddie Lockjaw Davis
Cannonball Adderley
Cleanhead Vinson
...March 10th, 2014
What sax player initially turned from the alto to the tenor sax in a purported effort to escape his image as a follower of Charlie Parker?
_____
Dexter Gordon
Cannonball Adderley
Nat Adderley
Sonny Stitt
Sonny Rollins
Gene Ammons
Roland Kirk
...March 3rd, 2014
In 1959, this bandleader toured Europe with a group originally put together to play for Harold Arlen’s show Free and Easy. Who is he?
Gerry Mulligan
Mayard Ferguson
Gerald Wilson
Don Ellis
Gil Evans
Stan Kenton
Quincy Jones
Sun Ra
...February 17th, 2014
Lester Young was the “Pres.” Who became known as the “Vice Pres?”
Paul Quinichette
Dexter Gordon
Hank Crawford
Paul Gonsalves
Don Byas
Johnny Griffin
Arnett Cobb
Lou Donaldson
...February 3rd, 2014
Born Norma Egstrom in 1920, this singer was so scared during her first recording session that her boss, Benny Goodman, was encouraged to fire her. Goodman recognized her talent and kept her. Who is Norma Egstrom?
Anita O day
Billie Holiday
Doris Day
Lena Horne
Peggy Lee
June Christy
Jo Stafford
Mildred Bailey
...January 27th, 2014
Who was nicknamed “Hootie” after “becoming literally intoxicated by Kansas City’s nightlife?”
Willie Dixon
Walter Page
George E. Lee
Bennie Moten
Harlan Leonard
Jay McShann
Joe Turner
Buddy Tate
January 20th, 2014
What big band leader was known as “The 20th Century Gabriel?”
Billy Eckstine
Cootie Williams
Benny Carter
Jimmy Lunceford
Jay McShann
King Oliver
Erskine Hawkins
Roy Eldridge
...
January 13th, 2014
Her 1920 recording of “Crazy Blues” for Okeh was the first blues song recorded by an African American singer. Who is she?
Ethel Waters
Bessie Smith
Mamie Smith
Josephine Baker
Ma Rainey
Ida Cox
Sippie Wallace
...December 30th, 2013
This west coast-based musician was a hot tenor of the forties who appeared in many of the top jam sessions during his era, including “The Duel,” with Dexter Gordon. Who was he?
Wardell Gray
Jimmy Giuffre
Buddy Collette
Bob Cooper
Teddy Edwards
Richie Kamucka
Zoot Sims
Lucky Thompson
...December 23rd, 2013
This sultry singer experienced significant popularity during the 1950’s and 1960’s, appeared in film and on television, and was once married to TV’s “Joe Friday.” Who is she?
June Christie
Julie London
Betty Roche
Dinah Washington
Chris Connor
Anita O’Day
Rosemary Clooney
Lorez Alexandria
...December 16th, 2013
This vocalist’s recording of “My Blue Heaven” was considered the top-selling recording of all-time prior to 1942, when Bing Crosby recorded “White Christmas.” Who was he?
Ray Anthony
Gene Austin
Bing Crosby
Cliff Edwards
Red Allen
Fats Waller
Jack Teagarden
Jelly Roll Morton
...December 9th, 2013
Before working with Woody Herman (and eventually marrying his singer Frances Wayne), this renowned composer/arranger contributed arrangements to Earl Hines’ big band, and subsequently played trumpet with, among others, Charlie Barnet, Horace Heidt and Charlie Spivak. Who was he?
Gil Evans
Pete Rugolo
Neal Hefti
Bill Holman
Benny Golson
Gerry Mulligan
Bob Brookmeyer
Eddie Sauter
...December 2nd, 2013
What was the first jazz LP to sell one million copies?
Miles Davis, Kind of Blue
John Coltrane, Giant Steps
Dave Brubeck, Time Out
Charles Lloyd, Forest Flower
Bill Evans, Waltz for Debby
Duke Ellington and His Orchestra, featuring Mahalia Jackson, Black, Brown and Beige
...November 25th, 2013
Immortalized by Jack Kerouac in On the Road, this musician answered to the name of “Dark Gable.” Who was he?
Billy Eckstine
Slim Gaillard
Earl Hines
Charlie Parker
Lester Young
Chick Webb
Coleman Hawkins
Duke Ellington
...November 18th, 2013
In the 1950’s, this Los Angeles-based guitarist led “The Poll Winners,” a trio that included bassist Ray Brown and drummer Shelly Manne. Who was he?
...November 10th, 2013
What jazz diva won an amateur contest at Harlem’s Apollo Theater at age 17 and had her composition “Dream Of Life” recorded by Billie Holiday at age 18?
...November 4th, 2013
Who was once billed as “the world’s fastest saxophonist?”
...October 28th, 2013
Born Lillie Mae Jones, this singer toured with Lionel Hampton from 1948 – 1951, during which time her nickname was “[First Name] Bebop.” And, legend is that Hampton fired this singer seven times during this 2 1/2 year period, only to rehire her each time at the insistence of his wife Gladys. Who is she?
...October 21st, 2013
This influential musician, composer and vocalist wrote the lyrics to Charlie Parker’s “Yardbird Suite.” Who is he?
...October 14th, 2013
Before following Anita O’Day as lead singer of Stan Kenton’s orchestra, she was known as Sharon Leslie, and sang with a group led by Boyd Raeburn. Who was she?
...October 7th, 2013
Born Lucius Venable, among this bandleader’s notable sidemen were Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Bill Doggett, and Dizzy Gillespie. Who was Lucius Venable?
...September 30th, 2013
This legendary musician studied with Sidney Bechet and took his place in Willie “The Lion” Smith’s group. Who was he?
...September 23rd, 2013
Ralph Ellison described this Oklahoma City native — eventually known as “Mr. Five by Five” — as once being a “compact, debonair young man who dressed with an easy elegance.” Who is he?
...September 17th, 2013
This saxophonist was best known for “Night Train,” a song based on Duke Ellington’s “Happy Go Lucky Local.”
Who was he?
...July 17th, 2013
“Adolphus” had one of the longest careers in the history of jazz, having played with, among others, Bessie Smith, McKinney’s Cotton Pickers, Cab Calloway, Teddy Wilson and Benny Goodman.
Who was “Adolphus”?
...July 3rd, 2013
”Every Time” by Michel Krug
The Sunday Poem is published weekly, and strives to include the poet reading their work.... Michel Krug reads his poem at its conclusion
Click here to read previous editions of The Sunday Poem
Click here to read more short fiction published on Jerry Jazz Musician
Click here to read more book excerpts published on Jerry Jazz Musician
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