This page gives details of musicians who at one time or another played with Sandy Brown. Links are given where there is more information available about particular people. The internet can provide useful information about jazz musicians generally, and to help visitors to this site we have also included links to other musicians who may not necessarily have played with Sandy. These musicians are show in grey print. If you are able to help with any of the missing information, please contact us
A-B-C-D-E-F-G-H-I-J-K-L-M-N-O-P-Q-R-S-T-UandV -W - Y -Z
Musician |
Instrument(s) |
Notes |
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| Johnny Alf | Piano | b. 19.5.1929 d. 4.3.2010 |
(Alfredo Jose da Silva) pianist who studied classical music and jazz in Brazil and played at the Hotel Plaza in Copacabana with others including Antonio Carlos Jobim as Bossa Nova was born. For Johnny's obituary click here: Johnny Alf |
| Rashied Ali | Drums | b. 1.7.1933 d. 12.8.2009 |
(born Robert Patterson) Progressive drummer who played in the John Coltrane Quartet and with Sonny Rollins, Henry Grimes and Sonny Fortune. For Rashied's obituary click here: Rashied Ali |
| Henry 'Red' Allen | Trumpet |
b. 7.1.1908 |
American trumpeter from Luisiana who played with King Oliver, Luis Russell and Fletcher Henderson. Visited London in 1964 and 1966 when Sandy played with him at the Westminster Central Hall and when he joined Sandy's band at the Six Bells in Chelsea. (Live private recordings not issued). More about Red Allen. |
| Fred Anderson | Saxophone | b. 22.3.1929 d. 24.6.2010 |
The 'free jazz' tenor saxophonist was born in Louisiana but made his home in Chicago where he founded the jazz club the Velvet Lounge. Cado Bell points out that on the Club's website, Anderson is quoted as saying: 'I got fascinated over this music, and I just wanted to make a contribution. It ain't nothing but folk music, like Hungarian folk music. It is all the same thing. That's why I think Bartok is so good. He was playing and writing Hungarian folk music.' Anderson was also a founding member of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians. For Fred's obituary click here: Fred Anderson. |
| Norrie Anderson | Banjo | d. 12. 2009 | Banjo player with the early Sandy Brown Jazz band and close friend of trumpeter Al Fairweather. Went on to teaching art in Scotland. More about Norrie Anderson. |
| John Armatage | Drums Arranger |
b. 5.8.1929 | |
| Ian Armit | Piano Composer |
b. 11.4.1929 |
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| Micky Ashman | Double Bass | b. 12.11.1927 | |
| Bela Bagyari | Piano | ||
| Kenny Baldock | Bass Piano |
d. 22.3.2010 | UK bass player who played with Peter King and the John Dankworth Orchestra in the 1960s and also with Freddy Randall and Ronnie Scott amongst others. Click here for more information: Kenny Baldock. |
| Billy Bang | Violin | b. 20.9.1947 d. 11.4.2011 |
American jazz violinist born William Vincent Walker in Mobile, Alabama. He became a key figure in New York's 'loft jazz' scene of the 1970s. Played with Don Cherry, Frank Lowe, Sam Rivers and Dennis Charles and formed the Jazz Doctors band with Lowe. For Billy's obituary click here: Billy Bang. |
| Chris Barber | Trombone |
b. 17.4.1930 | |
| Colin 'Barney' Bates | Piano Arranger |
b. 1.4.1932 | |
| Phil Bates | Double Bass | b. 19.6.1931 | |
| Gordon Beck | Piano | b. 16.9.1938 d. 6.11.2011 |
Self-taught UK pianist from London who worked with Peter King, Tony Crombie, Vic Ash and Harry Klein before joining Tubby hayes in 1962. He formed his own Trio in 1965 which became the house band at Ronnie Scott's club. In the 1970s he worked with Phil Woods and Ian Carr, and with Allan Holdsworth and with his own Quartet in the 1980s. For Gordon's obituary click here: Gordon Beck. |
| Harry Beckett | Trumpet Flugelhorn Paino Composer |
b. 30.5.1935 d. 22.7.2010 |
Barbados born trumpet and flugel horn player and composer who lived in London from 1954. Played with Mike Westbrook, Mike Gibbs, Chris McGregor, Graham Collier, Mike Osborne and the Jazz Warriors. Played with Sandy Brown at the Conway Hall, London on 14 March 1969 when Sandy played with the Graham Collier Sextet. For Harry's obituary click here: Harry Beckett |
| Roger Bell | Cornet |
b. 4.1.1919 d. 17.6.2008 |
Cornet player and browther of Australian band leader Graeme Bell. More about Roger. |
| Carey Bell | Harmonica | b. 14.11.36 d. 7.5.2007 |
American harmonica player, veteran of the Chicago Blues scene. Toured with Muddy Waters, Lowell Fulson and Willie Dixon. Click here for obituary. Carey Bell. |
| Louie Bellson | Drums | b. 6.7.1924 d. 14.2.2009 |
Drummer with Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, Harry James and Count Basie, and replaced Sonny Greer in the Duke Ellington band. Also led his own bands. More subtle than Buddy Rich but as influential. Click here forLouie's obituary: Louie Bellson |
| Sandor Benko | Clarinet/Saxophone | ||
| Acker Bilk | Clarinet |
b. 28.1.1929 | British band leader. Recorded with Sandy and others on 'Clarinet Jamboree' album in October 1959. Members of Sandy's band went on to play with Acker - Stan Greig, Al Fairweather, Bruce Turner, etc. More about Acker. |
| Sonny Bradshaw | Trumpet Piano Clarinet trombone Saxophone |
b. 28.3.1926 d. 10.10.2009 |
The 'Dean' of Jamaican music. Trumpeter and multi-instrumentalist who formed the Jamaican Big Band and the Sonny Bradshaw 7 and who launched the Ocho Rios Jazz Festival. Click here for obituary: Sonny Bradshaw. |
| Bill Bramwell | Guitar Bass Vocals |
b. 16.7.1922 |
1947 Young Musician of the Year who played with a number of bands including Freddie Randall and Mick Mulligan and with others as a session musician. Recorded with Sandy Brown in the 1960s. More about Bill. |
| Jim Bray | Double Bass Sousaphone |
b. 24.4.1927 | |
| Marko Breskovic | Bass Bandleader |
b. 1942 d.29.8.2010 |
Anyone with an interest in jazz and who has visited Dubrovnik in Croatia will have come across Marko's jazz cafe Troubadour. Click here for Ricardo Lago's tribute to this bass player who together with his sons was a key figure in Croatian jazz. For Marko's obituary click here: Marko Breskovic |
| Willem Breuker | Saxophone Clarinet Bandleader |
b. 4.11.1944 d. 23.7.2010 |
Dutch saxophonist, clarinetist and bandleader who founded the Amsterdam Kollectief and was one of the foremost free-jazz European stars. For Willem's obituary click here: Willem Breuker |
| Brian Brocklehurst | Double Bass Guitar |
16.8.1930 25.10.10 |
UK bass player born in Buxton, Derbyshire. From playing with Eddie Thompson's Trio, Brian moved to London in 1952, he played with the bands of Ken Mackintosh, Jack Parnell and Tommy Whittle before joining Humphrey Lyttelton's band as the band strated to play more mainstream music. Brian went on to become a successful session musician backing many famous singers. (Brian recorded with Sandy Brown as part of the Dick Heckstall-Smith Quintet in 1957). For Brian's obituary click here: Brian Brocklehurst |
| Bob Brookmeyer | Trombone | b. 19.12.1929 d. 15.12 2011 |
One of the best loved jazz trombonists, Bob Brookmeyer took up the trombone at the age of 13. He played piano for Tex Beneke's band before joining Claude Thornhill on trombone in 1952, played with Woody Herman and Stan Getz and in January 1954 became part of the Gerry Mulligan Quartet. In 1958 he joined Jimmy Giuffre's Trio and then worked with Bill Evans, Thad Jones and Mel Lewis. From 1981 he directed the Mel Lewis Orchestra. He toured Europe with Tony Coe in 1995, and in 2011 released his last album Standards. For Bob's obituary click here: Bob Brookmeyer |
| Ernest ' Brownie' Brown | Tap Dancer | b. 25.4.1916 d. 21.8.2009 |
Tap dancer who partnered Charles Cook as part of the Cotton Club Revue led by the Claude Hopkins Orchestra. They went on to dance with the orchestras of Duke Ellington, Coleman Hawkins and Count Basie and appeared at the 1963 Newport Jazz Festival. For Brownie's obituary click here: Brownie Brown |
| Marion Brown | Saxophone | b. 8.9.1931 d. 18.10.2010 |
Alto saxophone player from Atlanta, Georgia who was a member of the avante-garde scene in New York in the 1960s. He played with John Coltrane, Archie Shepp and John Tchicai amongst others and provided the soundtrack to the Marcle Camus 1970s film Le Temps Fou. For Marion's obituary click here: Marion Brown. |
| Dru Bruce | Vocals | ||
| 'Ma' Bruce | Piano | ||
| Beryl Bryden | Washboard |
b. 11.5.1920 d. 1998 |
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| Ray Bryant | Piano | b. 24.12.1931 d. 2.6.2011 |
American mainstream and hard bop pianist who played with Miles Davis, Coleman Hawkins, Jo Jones and many others. He was also Carmen McRae's accompanist for two years. For Ray's obituary click here: Ray Bryant. |
| Hiram Bullock | Guitar | b. 11.9.1955 d. 25.7.2008 |
Jazz-rock guitarist of the avant-garde New York jazz scene. Born in Japan he played with David Sanborn and the Brecker Brothers band, Carla Bley and Gil Evans. For Hiram's obituary click here: Hiram Bullock. |
| John Bunch | Piano | b. 1.12.1921 d. 30.3.2010 |
American pianist who played withGeorgie Auld, Woody Herman, Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, Maynard Ferguson, Benny Goodman and who was the musical director and conductor for singer Tony Bennett. For John's obituary click here: John Bunch |
| Graham Burbidge | Drums | b. 1.10.1933 | |
| Geoffrey Burgon | Composer Trumpet |
b. 15.7.1941 d. 21.9.2010 |
UK composer whose early ambition was to be a jazz trumpeter. 'I'd realised that I was not going to be the next Miles Davis,' he said, so he turned to composing, particularly for television. For Geoffrey's obituary click here: Geoffrey Burgon. |
| Campbell Burnap | Trombone Bandleader Broadcaster |
b. 10.9.1939 d. 30.5.2008 |
Born in Derby, Campbell emigrated to New Zealand when he was 19 and took up the trombone. He moved to Australia, toured the United States and then returned to England and joined Terry Lightfoot and then Monty Sunshine. He returned to Australia but came back to England to play with Ian Armit, Alan Elsdon, the Midnite Follies Orchestra, Pat Halcox All Stars, Pete Allen and Keith Smith. He joined Acker Bilk in 1980 and stayed with Acker until 1987. Campbell made regular broadcasts as a presenter for the BBC, Jazz FM and theJazz. For Campbell's obituary click here: Cambell Burnap |
| Bob Burns | Reeds Tenor Saxophone Violin |
b. 16.5.1923 | |
| Tito Burns | Accordion Bandleader |
b. 7.2.1921 d. 23.8.2010 |
Accordionist and bandleader born Nathan Bernstein, who included in his band John Dankworth, Ronnie Scott, Tony Crombie, Ray Ellington, Benny Green and Harry Klein. Went on to become a manager and promoter of acts including Cliff Richard and The Searchers. For Tito's obituary click here: Tito Burns |
| Willie Burns | Drums | b. 5.11.1932 |
Drummer with Sandy Brown's first band who grew up in Joppa with Stan Greig and Johnny Twiss. More about Willie. |
| Lennie Bush | Double Bass | b.6.6.1927 | |
| Pete Candoli | Trumpet | b. 28.6.1923 d. 11.1.2008 |
Trumpeter with Sonny Dunham, Will Bradley, Ray McKinley, Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey and Woody Herman. Known as 'Superman with a Horn'. Click here for obituary: Pete Candoli. |
| Dave Carpenter | Bass | b. 4.11.1959 d. 24.6.2008 |
Bass player Dave Carpenter studied at Ohio State University before playing professionally with many bands including Buddy Rich, Maynard Ferguson and Woody Herman. His later work was the Peter Erskine Trio. He performed on over two hundred recordings and on dozens of television and film soundtracks. Click here for obituary: Dave Carpenter. |
| Ian Carr | Trumpet Composer Bandleader |
b. 21.4.1933 d. 25.2.2009 |
Trumpeter from Dumfries who grew up in Northumberland, moved to London to play with Harold McNair, Don Rendell and New Jazz Orchestra. Formed band Nucleus in 1969 that included at various times Tony Coe, Chris Spedding and Ron Mathewson and played Newport and Montreaux Festivals in 1970. Took took forward rock-jazz movement. Was Associate Professor at Guildhall School of Music and Drama and was given award for Services To Jazz at 2006 BBC Jazz Awards. Click here for obituary: Ian Carr |
| Heinz Carstens | Bass | ||
| Stewart Carter | Trumpet | d. circa 2005 | Steve Fletcher asked if any readers knew of a fine trumpet player named Stewart Carter who ran a band in the Ponders End district of North London in the early 1950s. Eric Jackson replied that Stu moved to the Wirral where he played with the Peninsula Jazz Man, but sadly died around 2005.Please contact us if have any more information. |
| Dick Charlesworth | Clarinet Saxophone Bandleader |
b. 8.1.1932 |
UK clarinet and saxophone player from Sheffield who joined Jim Wheeler's Jazzmen but went on to form his own band 'The City Gents' - voted second and third in the 1961 Melody Maker and Jazz News polls. Joined cruise ships when the Trad boom ended and then played with Alan Littlejohn. Click here for Dick's obituary: Dick Charlesworth. |
| Buddy Childers | Trumpet | b. 12.2.1926 d. 24.5.2007 |
American trumpeter and bandleader who was lead trumpeter for Stan Kenton. Also played with Benny Carter, Andre Previn, Les Brown, Vido Musso, Tommy Dorsey and Charlie Barnet. Click here for obituary. Buddy Childers. |
| George Chisholm | Trombone |
b. 29.3.1915 |
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| Ian Christie | Clarinet | b. 2.6.1927 d. 19.1.2010 |
UK clarinet player who with his brother, trombonist Keith, led the Christie Brothers Stompers initially with Ken Colyer on cornet. Ian went on to join Alex Welsh's band and then Mick Mulligan before becoming a writer on Fleet Street. Click here for Ian's obituary: Ian Christie |
| Keith Christie | Trombone | b. 6.1.1931 d. 16.12.1980 |
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| Jimmy Clark | Tap Dance | b. 23.7.1922 d. 30.10.2009 |
Tap dancer who with brother Steve dancxed alongside Billie Holiday, Fats Waller, Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington. Click here for obituary: Jimmy Clark. |
| Frank Clarke | Bass | ||
| Jeff Clyne | Bass | b. 29.1.1937 d. 16.11.2009 |
British bass player who played with Ronnie Scott, Tubby Hayes, Stan Tracey, Dudley Moore and many others, and led his own band Turning Point. Click here for obituary: Jeff Clyne |
| Peter Coe | Saxophone | b. 21.11.1930 d. 16.3.2009 |
Saxophonist who led an occasional jazz quartet around London in the early 1970s before moving to Marbella where he played at Magnum's Jazz Bar. He had also led his own big band in the Wimbledon area of South West London and often worked with pianist Tony Lee.More well-known for playing with Georgie Fame and the Blue Flames, and for playing on the Bealtes' number 'Got To Get You Into My Life'. For Peter's obituary click here or here: Peter Coe |
| Tony Coe | Saxophones |
b. 29.11.1934 | |
| John Cole | Piano | ||
| Buddy Collette | Saxophone |
b. 6.8.1921 d. 19.9.2010 |
American West Coast saxophone, clarinet and flute player who worked with Charles Mingus, Charlie Parker, Dexter Gordon, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Thelonius Monk and others. Buddy was also a pioneer civil rights activist, working to desegregate the musicians union of Los Angeles.or Buddy's obituary click here: Buddy Collette. |
| Graham Collier | Double Bass |
b. 21.2.1937 d. 9.9.2011 |
UK trumpeter, drummer and bass player (he played bass with the Jimmy Dorsey swing band), but was best known for his work as a jazz composer and educator. He was the first Briton to graduate from the jazz course at Berklee College of Music, Boston and in 1968, the first composer to receive an Arts Council bursary for his Workpoint jazz project. It was Graham who initiated the jazz course at the Royal Academy of Music. He founded Graham Collier Music as an ensemble to play his compositions and at various times, the ensemble included Kenny Wheeler, Harry Beckett, John Surman, Karl jenkins, Mike Gibbs, Art Themen, Chris Biscoe and James Allsopp. He was awarded an OBE in 1987. Sandy Brown played a live gig with Graham's band in 1969. For Graham's obituary click here: Graham Collier |
| Shirley Collins | Vocals | ||
| Les Condon | Trumpet | b. 23.2.1930 d. 11.2007 |
Trumpeter with Tony Crombie, Tony Kinsey and Tubby Hayes. Obituary in Jazz Journal International Vol 61 No 2 February 2008. |
| Gene 'Mighty Flea' Conners | Trombone | b. 28.12.1930 d. 10.6.2010 |
American trombone player who owed much to JJ Johnson's slide trombone style. Played with Lionel Hampton and depped for the Count Basie and Ray Charles Orchestras. For Gene's obituary click here: Gene Conners |
| Chris Connor | Vocals | b. 8.11.1927 d. 29.8.2009 |
Singer with the Stan Kenton Band and last of the big band vocalists who became a solo star in her own right. Click here for obituary: Chris Connor |
| Alan Cooper | Clarinet | b. 1931 d. 2007 |
Clarinet player with the Temperence Seven. More about Alan. |
| Bryan Corbett | Trumpet Flugelhorn |
b. 1974 | Trumpet player namedin Jazzwise magazine as someone to look out for in 2008. Based in the U.K. Midlands, Bryan plays with his own Quartet andguest solos with other bands. More about Bryan. |
| Terry Cox | Drums | b. 13.3.1937 | Terry played drums with the Fairweather-Brown Band between 1962 and 1964 before going on to play with John Mayall and to formthe band Pentangle. More about Terry. |
| Bob Craig | Trombone | b. 1927 |
Schoolfriend of Sandy Brown who played trombone in Sandy's Edinburgh band when Al Fairweather changed to trumpet. Remained working in Scotland in a variety of jobs and continued playing jazz trombone. More about Bob. |
| Danny Craig | Drums | b. c1924 | |
| Ray Crane | Trumpet | b. 31.10.1930 d. 29.6.1994 |
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| Roy Crimmins | Trombone | b. 2.8.1929 | Trombone player who played with Mick Mulligan and Freddy Randall before joining the Alex Welsh band. Eventually moved to Israel. More about Roy. |
| George Crockett | Drums | d. 1990s | Drummer with Sandy Brown's early band in 1946/1947 Edinburgh. More about George. |
| Pat Crumly | Clarinet Saxophones Bandleader |
b. 9.2.1942 d. 28.9.2008 |
Clarinettist and Saxophonist who in the early 1970s formed a band named 'Edge' which included pianist Michael Garrick. He toured with John Dankworth in 1973 and went on to play with singers Jack Jones, Helen Reddy, Zoot Money and Alan Price. His Quartet played at Ronnie Scott's in the early 2000s having been a good friend of Ronnie's and in whose Legacy Band he was a key member after Ronnie died. For Pat's obituary click here: Pat Crumly. There are some errors in Pat's obituary which are corrected if you also click here. |
| Chris Dagley | Drums | b. 23.6.1971 d. 28.7.2010 |
Chris who was only 38, was a member of Ronnie Scott's house band (the James Pearson Trio). He died in a motorcycle accident after a gig at Ronnie's. He had been a member of the National Youth Jazz Orchestra and had worked with Benny Golson, Randy Brecker, Jim Mullen, Don Weller, and the BBC Big Band, amongst others. For Chris's obituary click here: Chris Dagley |
| Bryan Daly | Guitar | ||
| Sir John Dankworth | Alto Saxophone |
b. 20.9.1927 d. 6.2.2010 |
Renowned UK saxophonist, composer and bandleader who was in the vanguard of those bringing modern jazz to Britain. He formed the Johnny Dankworth Seven in 1940 and then various other bands through which passed many top jazz musicians. He gave up the band in 1960 to concentrate of composing and to act as musical director for his wife, vocalist Cleo Laine. They have a son Alec who is a leading bass player and a daughter Jacqui who is an eminent vocalist. Click here for Sir John's obituary: Sir John Dankworth |
| Kenny Davern | Clarinet Soprano Saxophone |
b. 7.1.1935 d. 12.12.2006 |
American clarinettist and saxophonist. Click here for obituary. Kenny Davern |
| Cyril Davies | Blues Harp | b. 1932 d. 1964 |
'Father of the British Blues Harp'. More about Cyril. |
| John R.T. Davies | Trombone |
b. 20.3.1927 d. 24.5.2004 |
Trombonist with Sandy Brown and other post-war jazz bands including Mick Mulligan, Ken Colyer, and Acker Bilk. Adopted the name Sheikh Wadi El Yadounia and a fez to play with the Temperence Seven. Started Ristic record label and went on tobecome a major contributor to remastering old recordings. Click here for John's obituary. John R.T. Davies |
| Art Davis | Bass |
b. 5.12.1934 d. 29.7.2007 |
Played with Max Roachand Dizzy Gillespie from around 1958 to 1961, and with John Coltrane, Quincy Jones and many others. Click here for obituary. Art Davis. |
| Beryl Davis | Vocals | b. 16.3.1924 d. 28.10.2011 |
The singer was born in the Palace Theatre in Plymouth, Devon and her parents were Queenie and Harry Davis. Harry played guitar and banjo and led Oscar Rabin's dance band. Beryl recorded with Al Bowlly when she was twelve, toured and with the Quintet of the Hot Club of France, worked with Paul Fenoulhet, Geraldo and Nat Temple and sang at Glenn Miller's last concert before his plane was lost. She moved to Hollywood where she re-married to Buck Stapleton, a drummer with Glen Miller's band. For Beryl's obituary click here: Beryl Davis. |
| Blossom Dearie | Vocals Piano |
b. 29.4.1926 d. 7.2.2009 |
Songwriter, singer and pianist who sang with the Woody Herman and Alvino Rey vocal groups. Moved to Paris in 1952 and formed the Blue Stars of Paris vocal group. Played regularly at Ronnie Scott's Club in London. Click here for Blossom's obituary: Blossom Dearie |
| Eric Delaney | Drums | b. 22.5.1924 d. 14.7.2011 |
UK drummer who won the Best Swing Drummer Award at the age of sixteen, played with Bert Ambrose and formed his own band in 1954. For Eric's obituary click here: Eric Delaney. |
| Bill Dillard | Trumpet | ||
| Diz Disley | Guitar Banjo Vocals |
b. 27.5.1931 |
Born in Shropshire but brought up in Canada, guitar player Diz was a prominent player with many UK jazz bands from the 1940s including recording with Sandy Brown and Al Fairweather in 1956. Influenced by Django Reinhardt he played with Stephane Grapelli and after moving to the Folk scene in the 1960s, in 1984 was involved in forming a hot club quintet for Nigel Kennedy. Click here for more Diz's obotuary: Diz Disley. Click here for more informationn: Diz Disley |
| Bill Dixon | Trumpet Bandleader Composer |
b. 5.10.1925 d. 16.6.2010 |
Jazz trumpeter, bandleader and composer who founded the United Nations Jazz Society, promoted avante-garde jazz in New York, worked to develop the jazz scene in Greenwich Village coffee houses and taught at Bennington College. Click here for Bill's obituary: Bill Dixon. |
| Arne Domnerus | Saxophone | b. 20.12.1924 d. 2.9.2008 |
Swedish alto saxophonist who developed the jazz scene in Stockholm and welcomed many jazz greats to play in that country. and recorded with Clark terry and Benny Carter in the 1990s.For Arne's obituary click here: Arne Domnerus. For video clip click here. |
| Jackie Dougan | Drums | b. c1930 |
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| Jim Douglas | Guitar | b. 1942 | Friend and fellow musician who played with Sandy in the 1960s. Also member of Alex Welsh band. For letter from Jim click here. |
| Kit Downes | Piano | b. 26.5.1986 | British pianist with the bands Empirical and Troyka. Named by Helen Mayhew in Jazzwise as a musician to look out for in 2008. More about Kit. |
| Martin Drew | Drums | b. 11.2.1944 |
The British drummer who worked for Ronnie Scott and Oscar Peterson died at Harefield hospital following a heart attack at his home in Wembley. He worked with many musicians whilst he was at Ronnie's including Dizzy Gillespie, Chet Baker and Dexter Gordon. For Martin's obituary click here: Martin Drew. |
| Johnny Duncan | Guitar |
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| Mac Duncan | Trombone | b. 9.2.1930 d. 27.10.1981 |
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| Jerzy Dunin-Kozicki | Drums | ||
| Cornell Dupree | Guitar | b. 19.12.1942 d. 8.5.2011 |
Born in Texas, he first learned saxophone before switching to guitar. He joined King Curtis band the King Pins and went on to work on many historic recordings by Miles Davis, Etta James, Archie Shepp, Lena Horne and especially Aretha Franklin. For Cornell's obituary click here: Cornell Dupree. |
| Bobby Durham | Drums | b. 3.2.1937 d. 6.7.2008 |
Drummer Bobby Durham was born in Philadelphia. He was fired by Duke Ellington but worked with a string of other prominent bands including those of Oscar Peterson, Cat Anderson, Lionel Hampton and Count Basie. For Bobby's obituary click here: Bobby Durham |
| Eddie Durham | Trombone | ||
| Snooks Eaglin | Guitar | b. 21.1.1936 d. 18.2.2009 |
Fird Eaglin Jr - a blind New Orleans guitar player with an amazing ability to remember over 2,000 tunes and used his incredibly long fingers rather than a plectrum. Played with Allen Toussaint in a band called the Flamingoes, but remained in New Orleans for most of his life. Inspired many rock and R&B guitar players. For Snook's obituary click here: Snooks Eaglin. |
| Stu Eaton | Trumpet | b. 19.4.1927 | Early school friend of Sandy and Al. Trumpet player with Sandy's first band. More about Stu. |
| David 'Honeyboy' Edwards | Blues guitar Vocals |
b. 28.6.1915 d. 29.8.2011 |
American blues guitarist and singer who was thought to be the last of the Delta bluesmen who included Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters and Big Joe Williams. He is reported to have said of white blues players: 'They've got good fingers, but most of them don't have the voice. Let me tell you something, the blues was meant to be played slow, and they play it too fast.' Click here for Honeyboy's obituary: Honeyboy Edwards. |
| Ramblin' Jack Elliott | Guitar |
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| Herb Ellis | Guitar | b. 4.8.1921 d. 28.3.2010 |
Guitar player from Farmersville, near Dallas, who joined Jimmy Dorsey's Orchestra in the 1940s and later became the guitarist with the Oscar Peterson Trio. Herb also played with many other jazz greats throughout his career. For Herb's obituary click here: Herb Ellis |
| Nick Evans | Trombone | b. 9.7.1947 | |
| Bob Fairley | Trumpet | ||
| Al Fairweather | Trumpet |
b. 12.6.1927 |
Close friend from Edinburgh's Royal High School days who for a number of years shared leadership of the band with Sandy. Left to join Acker Bilk's band in 1966. Later played with Stan Greig's London Jazz Big Band and Ralph Laing's Groove Juice |
| Jack Fallon | Double Bass Bass Guitar Violin |
b. 13.10.1915 | |
| Wally Fawkes | Clarinet Sprano Saxophone Tenor Saxophone |
b. 21.6.1924 | |
| John Ferguson | Double Bass | b. 2.6.1932 d. 12.2011 |
The Glaswegian double bass player was unexpectedly taken to hospital from his home in London in December 2011 with chest and lung problems. It is said that he suffered from asbestosis from working as a construction worker when he was a young man. Clarinetist John Evans says that John Ferguson 'had played with virtually everyone over a period of forty years. He was a good bass player, quiet and ironic and funny in a quiet sort of way.' Piano and bass player Ron Rubin was shocked to hear the news: 'Not so long ago I was playing with him, John Barnes and Wally Fawkes at the Bowling Club'. John had also been playing regularly at the King's Head in Crouch End, on Fridays at the Spice of Life in Soho and with Chris Hodgkin, John Evans, Mike Nash, Max Britton and Don Cook in North Kensington. |
| Bob Flanigan | Vocals | b. 22.8.1926 d. 15.5.2011 |
Singer with the close-harmony vocal group The Four Freshmen who modelled their music on Stan Kenton's arrangements. They were admired by Woody herman and Dizzy Gillespie and they released their popular version of Duke Ellington's Mood Indigo in 1954. For Bob's obituary click here: Bob Flanigan. |
| Bob Florence | Pianist Band Leader Composer |
b. 20.5.1932 d. 15.5.2008 |
Pianist born in Los Angeles who led the big band Bob Florence's Limited Edition. Joined Les Brown's band and then Si Zentor. Wrote arrangements for many bands and artists including Harry James, Louie Bellson, Stan Kenton and Buddy Rich Click here for obituary: Bob Florence. |
| Clinton Ford | Vocals | b. 4.11.1931 d. 21.10.2009 |
Initially known as a skiffle singer, ClintonFord was famous as the vocalist with the Mersysippi Jazz Band in Liverpool and with Kenny Ball's Jazzmen. He was a frequent guest artist with many other bands including the Clyde Valley Stompers and George Chisholm's Gentlemen of Jazz. For Clinton's obituary click here: Clinton Ford |
| Jim 'Farrie' Forsyth | Drums | ||
| Frank Foster | Saxophone | b. 23.9.1928 d. 26.7.2011 |
Tenor saxophonist from Cincinnati, Ohio who played with the Count Basie Orchestra and who led the orchestra for nine year's after Basie's death in 1984. For Frank's obituary click here: Frank Foster. |
| Johnny Fourie | Guitar | b. 18.5.1937 d. 19.8.2007 |
South African guitarist who came to London in the 1960s and played with the Ray Ellington Quartet and Ronnie Scott. He returned to South Africa and changed from playing Be-Bop to playing Jazz Fusion. Click here for Johnny's obituary: Johnny Fourie. |
| Bud Freeman | Saxophone | ||
| Jeremy French | Trombone Trumpet |
b. 4.7.1931 |
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| Johnny Frigo | Double Bass Violin |
b. 27.12.1916 d. 4.7.2007 |
Chicago musician who changed to playing the violin in 1988. Sat in with Albert Ammons and played with Tommy Dorsey Al Haig, Kai Winding and formed the Soft WindsTrio with Lou Carter and Herb Ellis. Click here for Johnny's obituary: Johnny Frigo. Or here for Johnny's website |
| Arthur Fryatt | Drums | ||
| Knud Fryland | Guitar | ||
| Paul Gamblin | Guitar | d. 16.10.2010 | UK guitarist. David Speake says of Paul: 'I worked alongside him in the 80's in a band with Martin Speake, Simon Purcell, Dudley Phillips and Dawson Miller. I remember him being the perfect replacement for the previous guitarist and a totally cool guy. He was an extremely good player, but very humble, always even tempered and a pleasure to work with.' If you would like to add your comments to the Book of Condolence for Paul click here |
| Allan Ganley | Drums |
b. 11.3.1931 d. 29.3.2008 |
Drummer, composer and arranger born in Tolworth, Surrey. Played with many famous bands and musicians, but particularly with John Dankworth. He was also house drummer at Ronnie Scott's Club for three years. Click here for Allan's obituary: Allan Ganley. Or here for Allan's website. |
| Russ Garcia | Trumpet Arranger |
b. 12.4.1916 d. 19.11.2011 |
American trumpeter and arranger who initially played for Horace Heidt and Al Donahue. In the 1950s he wrote arrangements for Buddy De Franco, Roy Eldridge, Johnny Hodges and Charlie Barnet and recorded under his own name. His group, the Wigville Band, included Charlie Mariano, Jimmy Giuffre and Pete and Conte Candoli. Russ eventually moved to New Zealand. For Russ's obituary click here: Russ Garcia. |
| James Gardiner-Bateman | Saxophone | b. 1985 | British alto-saxophone player attending Royal Academy of Music from 2008 and playing with Dennis Rollins's Badbone & Co and a number of Bristol based bands including Hélélé. More about James |
| Robin Gardner | Trombone | b. ? d. 1. 2010 |
Mel Henry remembers Robin who passed through the Departure Lounge in January. 'He was a good friend, a wonderful guy, and much loved in the West London jazz scene. He was the son of Freddie Gardner, one of the finest English sax players pre-war. Robin was given a rousing send-off at the Bull's Head on Thursday 28th January with lots of music from mates of the Sound of Seventeen big band (he led the trombone section). I vaguely remember playing with a four-man trombone front line (all considerably better than me) at the end - Robin would have been proud.' (We have not ben able to find an obituary link for Robin). |
| Michael Garrick | Composer |
b. 30.5.1933 d. 11.11.2011 |
UK composer and pianist whose recording of Blues For The Lonely with Joe Harriott and Shake Keane on a Poetry and Jazz EP was a significant step in a career that went on to see him make 30 albums, including Dusk Fire with Ian Carr-Don Rendell, and become a respected teacher at Trinity College, the Royal Academy and the Guildhall School of Music in London as well as establishing his own Jazz Academy. Click here for Michael's obituary: Michael Garrick. |
| Kofi Ghanaba | Drums | b. 4.5.1923 d. 22.12.2008 |
Otherwise known as Guy Warren, but whose real name was Gamaliel Akwei was a drummer who pioneered Afro-jazz. Associated with Charlie Parker, Miles Davis and Thelonius Monk he was originally part of E.T. Mensah's high life band in 1947. Played with Kenny Graham's Afro-Cubists in London in 1950. For Kofi's obituary click here: Kofi Ghanaba |
| Jimmy Giuffre | Clarinet Composer Bandleader |
b. 26.4.1921 d. 24.4.2008 |
Clarinettist and composer who played with many musicians including Jimmy Dorsey, Gene Roland, Shelly Manne, Shorty Rogers, Jack Sheldon and fronted his own bands. Wrote the number 'Four Brothers', and from 1957 also became a music teacher. For Jimmy's obituary click here: Jimmy Giuffre. |
| Belle Gonzales | Vocals | Former promoter Ernie Phillips is trying to find out information about Belle Gonzales. Please contact us if you can help. | |
| Benny Goodman | Drums | b. c1927 |
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| Bobby Graham | Drums | b. 11.3.1940 d. 14.9.2009 |
Born Robert Neate in North London, he left school intending to be a jazz drummer but was offered work playing rock and roll which he did successfully for most of his career playing with Joe Brown, Marty Wilde, the John Barry Seven and many others. In the 1980s he moved away from music but later returned forming his own band The Jazz Experience. For Bobby's obituary click here: Bobby Graham |
| Dave Green | Double Bass | b. 5.3.1942 | |
| Bill Greenow | Clarinet Saxophone |
b. 21.7.1940 d. 7.10.2011 |
UK clarinettist and saxophonist who used to play with Barry Martyn, and with Cuff Billett in the band Strong Jazz. He joined Les Haricots Rouge, then the Temperance Seven. Bill moved to Sweden and then joined the Belgian Gypsiy group Waso. He moved to France and played with Lars Edegran's band before returning to Britain in 1994. Jamie Evans recalls that Bill played in Bill Nile's Goodtime Band and recalls gigging a lot with Bill in the 1970s and 1980s. Bill had been seriously ill in hospital in Gillingham, Kent with cardiovascular disease and a leg amputation and passed peacefully through the Departure Lounge in hospital on October 7th. (There is no online link to an obituary at the moment, but we shall add one if it becomes available). |
| Stan Greig | Piano Drums Arranger |
b. 12.8.1930 | |
| Johnny Griffin | Saxophone Composer |
b. 24.4.1928 d. 25.7.2008 |
Chicago born tenor saxophonist who played with Lionel Hampton, Bud Powell, Thelonius Monk, Art Blakey and John Coltrane. For Johnny's obituary click here: Johnny Griffin. |
| Tata Guines | Percussion | b. 30.6.1930 d. 4.2.2008 |
Born in Cuba, he played with many musicians including Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis. Although he never took part in the best-selling recordings of the Buena Vista Social Club, he was involveed in the rediscovery of Cuban music. For Tata's obituary click here: Tata Guines |
| Guru (Keith Elam) | Jazz-Rap |
b. 17.7.1966 d. 19.4.2010 |
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, he got together with DJ Premier to form the jazz-rap duo Gang Starr mixing electronic beats that linked hip-hop to bebop. Guru died of cancer at the age of 43. For Guru's obituary click here: Guru |
| Earle H. Hagen | Trombone Composer Arranger |
b. 9.7.1919 d. 26.5.2008 |
Trombone player with Tommy Dorsey and Benny Goodman who went on to score music for well known American television series. Born in Chicago, Earle played with Ben Pollack and Ray Noble when he left Goodman and Dorsey. For Earle's obituary click here: Earle H. Hagen |
| Connie Haines | Vocals | b. 20.1.1921 d. 22.9.2008 |
Sang with the Tommy Dorsey band in the early 1940s when the band featured Buddy Rich, Bunny Berigan, Joe Bushkin, Frank Sinatra and Jo Stafford, although she didn't get on with Sinatra. Born Yvonne JaMais, she changed her name when she joined Harry James band in 1938. Shge became a solo singer, she recorded for many of the major labels and appeared on many TV variety programmes. For Connie's obituary click here: Connie Haines |
| Barrie Lee Hall, Jr | Trumpet | b. 30.6.1949 d. 29.1.2011 |
American trumpet player discovered whilst still at college by Duke Ellington. Went on to lead the trumpet section, win Grammy’s, tour the world, and do incredible work archiving Ellington’s collection. He was also a sideman working with Kenny Garrett, Patti La Belle and many others. Click here for Barrie talking about his life. Click here for a video of him playing. For Barrie's obituary click here: Barrie Lee Hall Jr. |
| Jake Hanna | Drums | b. 4.4.1931 d. 12.2.2010 |
Drummer from Dorchester, Massachusetts who played with Maynard Ferguson, Woody Herman, Duke Ellington, Harry James and Herb Pomeroy. For Jake's obituary click here: Jake Hanna |
| Steve Harris | Percussion Composer |
b. 16.8.1948 d. 11.1.2008 |
Percussionist and founder of the Dorset ensemble 'Zaum', and founder of the improvising collective 'SafeHouse'. For Steve's obituary click here: Steve Harris |
| Joe Harriott | Alto Saxophone |
b. 15.7.1928 |
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| Keef Hartley | Drums | b. 10.4.1944 d. 26.11.2011 |
UK drummer mainly known for his work with John Mayall. Starting as a rock musician in the 1960s, he joined John Mayall's Bluesbreakers in the late 1960s and started drawing on jazz, blues and rock music. In the early 1970s he formed a large jazz-rock band with Derek Wadsworth and Barbara Thompson and in 1971 they recorded a live album from the Marquee entitled Little Big Band. For Keef's obituary click here: Keef Hartley. |
| Lennie Hastings | Drums Vocals |
b. 5.1.1925 |
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| Richard Hawdon | Trumpet Bandleader |
b. 27.8.1927 d. 24.6.2009 |
British trumpeter and bandleader who played with Chris Barber and the Christie Brothers in the 1950s before going on to play with Tubby Hayes, and John Dankworth amongst others. For obituary click here: Richard Hawdon |
| Johnny Hawksworth | Double Bass Piano Composer |
b. 20.1.1924 | |
| Spike Heatley | Double Bass Cello |
b. 17.2.1933 | |
| Dick Heckstall-Smith | Saxopohones | b. 26.9.1934 | |
| Neal Hefti | Trumpet Composer Arranger |
b. 29.10.1922 d. 11.10.2008 |
Trumpet player and great jazz orchestrator who wrote 'Skyliner' whilst with Charlie Barnet's band and all the music for The Atomic Mr Basie album, including the number 'Li'l Darlin'. Played with Woody Herman and wrote for Herman, Charlie Ventura and Harry James as well a number of films. For Neal's obituary click here: Neal Hefti. |
| Peter Herbolzheimer | Trombone Guitar Bandleader Composer |
b. 31.12.1935 d. 27.3.2010 |
Born in Bucharest, Peter moved to Germany where he played trombone and guitar and extablished his big band the Peter Herbolzheimer Rhythm Combinations and Brass. Click here for Peter's more information: Peter Herbolzheimer |
| Doug Higgins | Drums | ||
| Andrew Hill | Pianist Composer |
b. 30.6.1931 d. 20.4.2007 |
American composer and pianist from the post-bop generation. Member of Blue Note Records roster in the 1960's. Influenced/taught Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea and Keith Jarrett. Click here for obituary. Andrew Hill. |
| Major Holley | Bass | ||
| Johnny Hope | Saxophone |
b. 2.9.1925 d. 3.6.2007 |
London Caribbean saxophonist originally from Barbadoswhose model was Charlie Parker. He worked in London with saxophonist Eric Deans and with pianist Doc Watson amongst others. Click here for obituary. Johnny Hope. |
| George ' Hoppy' Hopkinson | Drums Washboard |
b. 2.9.1922 | |
| Lena Horne | Vocals | b. 30.6.1917 d. 9.5.2010 |
Legendary singer born in New York and who made her debut as a chorus girl at the Cotton Club before going on to sing with Noble Sissle, Charlie Barnet and many others. Married to Lennie Hayton, she appeared in movies and stage shows and in the 1960s dedicated herself to the civil rights movement. For Lena's obituary click here: Lena Horne |
| Noah Howard | Saxophone | b. 6.4.1943 d. 3.9.2010 |
Alto saxophone player of the expressionist African-American free jazz movement of the 1960s. Worked with Archie Shepp, Bill Dixon, Sun Ra and Pharoah Sanders. In 1971, he formed a self-help group (the New York Musicians' Organisation), with Coleman and Sun Ra among the members. For Noah's obituary click here: Noah Howard. |
| Ian Howarth | Drums | b. 21.8.1948 d. 30.12.2008 |
Drummer originally from Lancashire who played washboard in his school skiffle group and trombone in his school orchestra before taking up the drums. Original member of Vintage Syncopators, one of Red Hayes' Jazz Wizards, and played with and led the Temperence Seven. More recently in the 1990s played with Alan Cooper's Trio. Click here for Ian's obituary: Ian Howarth |
| Freddie Hubbard | Trumpet | b. 7.4.1938 d. 29.12.2008 |
Trumpeter who burst onto the jazz scene in 1959 and went on to play with Philly Jo Jones, Sonny Rollins, John Coltrane, J.J. Johnson, Art Blakey, Quincy Jones, Herbie Hancock and others. Click here for Freddie's obituary: Freddie Hubbard |
| Fred Hunt | Piano | b. 21.9.1923 |
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| Denny Hutchinson | Drums | ||
| Jack Hutton | Trumpet Editor - Melody Maker |
b. 17.4.1928 d. 24.8.2008 |
Scottish trumpet player. He and his wife were keen jazz fans and founded the Dundee Jazz Club. Jack is better known as Editor of the Melody Maker where he ensured that jazz interest was maintained amongst the pop news. For Jack's obituary click here: Jack Hutton. |
| Alex Imrie | Guitar | ||
| Keith Ingham | Piano Arranger |
b. 5.2.1938 | |
| Dennis Irwin | Bass |
b.28.11.1951 d. 8.3.2008 |
Bass player born in Alabama who started on clarinet and saxophone before making the bass his main instrument. Played with Betty Carter, Art Blakey, Chet Baker, Horace Silver and Susannah McCorkle amongst others. For more information click here: Dennis Irwin |
| Dizzy Jackson | Bass | b. 14.7.1932 | Bass player with Sandy Brown's early band who remained playing with local bands in Edinburgh when Sandy went to London. More about Dizzy. |
| Franz Jackson | Saxophone | b. 1.11.1912 d. 6.5.2008 |
Saxophone player with Fats Waller, Roy Eldridge, Fletcher Henderson, Lopuis Armstron and Jelly Roll Morton. He was touring Europe in 1981 and joined Jim Beebe's band in 1990. For obituary click here: Franz Jackson |
| Etta James | Vocals | b. 25.1.1938 d. 20.1.2012 |
Soul singer with a huge voice who was born in Los Angeles and 'discovered' by Johnny Otis who called her 'Miss Peaches'. She recorded with musicians such as Allen Toussaint, Harold Battiste and many others but saw liitle of the money she earned. Since 1961 she was addicted to hard drugs. More recently she suffered from dementia and leukaemia and was taken to hospital in December with breathing problems. For Etta's obituary click here: Etta James |
| Robbie Jansen | Saxophone |
b. 5.8.1949 d. 7.7.2010 |
South African alto saxophonist, flautist, singer, arranger and composer who was a key figure in the Cape jazz scene. By 13 he had played in two school bands. Worked with Abdullah Ibrahim, Basil Coetzee and the bands Juluka, Spirits Rejoice, Workforce and Sabenza. For Robbie's obituary click here: Robbie Jansen. |
| Janos Jaray | Drums | ||
| Zbigniew Jaremko | Saxophone | ||
| Poul Preben Jensen | Drums | ||
| Henrik Johansen | Vocals | ||
| Dill Jones | Piano | b. 19.8.1923 d. 22.6.1984 |
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| Hank Jones | Piano | b. 31.7.1918 |
Pianist who played with so many great jazz musicians including Andy Kirk, John Kirby, Coleman Hawkins, Charlie Parker, Benny Goodman and Tommy Flanagan to name but a few. He was also Ella Fitzgerald's accompanist for six years and to Marilyn Monroe when she sang Happy Brithday to President John Kennedy. For Hank's obituary click here: Hank Jones |
| Dinah Kaye | Vocals | b. 2.2.1924 d. 12.9.2011 |
Born Kay Cumming, Dinah Kaye was a popular jazz and blues singer of the 1950s and 1960s. She sang with many bands including those of Harry Parry, Nat Allen, Cyril Stapleton, Tommy Sampson and Terry Lightfoot and appeared with Louis Armstrong and Tony Bennett. In 1965 she came second to Cleo Laine in a Melody Maker Jazz Poll and she appeared regularly on Humphrey Lyttelton's radio programme. For Dinah's obituary click here: Dinah Kaye. |
| Bob Keane | Clarinet Bandleader |
b. 5.1.1922 d. 28.11.2009 |
Californian clarinettist who formed his first big band at the age of 17. Forged a relationship with Artie Shaw and fronted the band on occasion before establishing his own record label Del-Fi Recording and signed Richie Valens and othe popular music acts. For Bob's obituary click here: Bob Keane. |
| Dave Keir | Trumpet | b. 9.4.1928 | Played trumpet with Sandy's band in Edinburgh while Al Fairweather was on National Service. Currently leads his Hot 5 band in Scotland. More about Dave. |
| Pete King | Tenor Sax | b. 23.8.1929 d. 20.12.2009 |
UK tenor sax player who worked with Vic Lewis, Jack Parnell, Kathy Stobart Tubby Hayes and Ronnie Scott and who finally went into management, opening the first Ronnie Scott Club with Ronnie in Gerrard Street in 1959. For Pete's obituary click here: Pete King. |
| Teddi King | Vocals Piano |
b. 18.9.1929 d. 18.11.1977 |
Recorded with Nat Pierce in 1949, then with Beryl Booker. Toured with George Shearing from 1952. Influenced by Lee Wiley and Mildred Bailey. For more about Teddi click here orto see and hear her click here. |
| Brian 'Drag' Kirby | Bass | ||
| Eddie Kirkland | Guitar Vocals |
b. 16.8.1923 d. 27.2.2011 |
Jamaican blues singer and guitarist who moved to New Orleans and then to Detroit. He was an occasional partner to John Lee Hooker and toured with Otis Redding. Click here for Eddie's obituary: Eddie Kirkland. |
| Harry Klein | Baritone Saxophone | b. 25.12.1928 d. 30.6.2010 |
Leading exponent of the baritone saxophone in British jazz during the 1950s. Harry played with Kenny Baker, Ronnie Scott, Tommy Whittle and with the Jazz Today Unit. In 1956 he joined Stan Kenton's Orchestra. He led his own bands and, with saxophonist Vic Ash, co-led the Jazz Five between 1960 and 1962. Harry was also a small time actor. For more about Harry click here: Harry Klein. |
| Marie Knight | Vocals | b. 1920 d. 30.8.2009 |
Gospel singer who came to prominence touring with Sister Rosetta Tharpe and who performed in many famous jazz venues. For Marie's obituary click here: Marie Knight |
| Jerzy Kowalski | Trombone | ||
| Georgia Carroll Kyser | Vocals | b. 18.11.1919 d. 14.1.2011 |
Singer with Kay Kyser's band in the 1940s. She was also a fashion model appearing on the cover of Vogue magazine. For more about Georgia click here: Georgia Carroll Kyser. |
| Drew Landles | Piano | d. .9 2010 | Drew Landles was one of the Edinburgh crowd playing piano in Sandy Brown's band in 1952-1953. Sandy, Will and Drew all attended the Art College, becoming in time successful architects. Sandy and Will then became London based while Drew remained in Edinburgh. I don't believe he ever intended to be a full-time musician although he could certainly have.' Drew was one of those who with Jim Keppie set up the Edinburgh Jazz Archive. |
| Don Lawson | Drums Percussion Composer |
b. 7.7.1930 | |
| Freddy Legon | Guitar Banjo Vocals |
b. 30.8.1925 | |
| Charlie Leighton | Harmonica | b. 1921 d. 2009 |
Possibly the last of the great American harmonica players from the thirties. He was a consumate jazz player but recorded rarely on his own. For more about Charlie click here: Charlie Leighton |
| Brian Lemon | Piano Arranger |
b. 11.2.1937 | |
| Danny Levan | Guitar | ||
| Tony Levin | Drums | b. 30.1.1940 d. 3.2.2011 |
English drummer born in Shropshire who played with numerous bands including Tubby Hayes, Alan Skidmore, Humphrey Lyttelton, and John Surman. He ran his own monthly jazz club in Birmingham and played extensively in recent years with saxophonist Paul Dunmail. For information about Tony click here: Tony Levin |
| Vic Lewis | Guitar Banjo Bandleader Agent |
b. 29.7.1919 d. 9.2.2009 |
Guitar and banjo player from London who sat in/ played with Joe Marsala, Bobby Hackett, Eddie Condon, Stan Kenton and Tommy Dorsey. Formed the Vic Lewis Jazzmen and then a big band that at times included Tubby Hayes, Ronnie Scott, Kenny Wheeler and Kathy Stobart. From 1959 worked mostly as a booking agent. For obituary click here: Vic Lewis |
| Terry Lightfoot | Clarinet |
b. 21.5.1935 | British band leader. Recorded with Sandy and others on 'Clarinet Jamboree' album in October 1959. More about Terry. |
| Abbey Lincoln | Vocals | b. 6.8.1930 d. 14.8.2010 |
Singer inluenced by Billie Holiday early in her life and went on to sing with Benny Carter, Max Roach (who she married), Stan Getz and Hank Johnson amongst others. In 1957 became a champion of the Civil Rights movement. For Abbey's obituary click here: Abbey Lincoln. |
| Jasper Livesey | Saxophone | ||
| Alan Lomax | Guitar |
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| Huey Long | Guitar Vocals |
b. 24.4.1904 d. 10.6.2009 |
Singer and guitarist, has died at the age of 105. Probably best remembered for being with the Ink Spots, but he also played with Frank Davis's Louisiana Jazz band, Lil Armstrong, Fletcher henderson, Earl Hines and Eddie 'Lockjaw' Davis. Click here for Huey's obituary: Huey Long. |
| Orlando 'Cachaito' Lopez | Bass | b. 2.1933 d. 9.2.2009 |
Bass player with the Buena Vista Social Club but who had also played with jazz bands in Cuba. Click here for Orlando's obituary: Orlando Lopez |
| Lawrence Lucie | Guitar | b. 18.12.1907 d. 14.8.2009 |
Guitar player who played with Duke Ellington and Fletcher Henderson and was the last living musician to have recorded with Jelly Roll Morton. Click here for Larry's obituary: Lawrence Lucie. |
| Jon Lucien | Vocals |
b. 8.1.1942 |
Born Lucien Harrigan in British Virgin Islands, he collaborated with Weather Report and Grover Washington Jr. producing a smooth soul-jazz reputation with his baritone voice. For obituary click here. Jon Lucien. |
| David Lund | Piano | d. 2010 | David was a UK jazz pianist who played at many jazz venues including the Pizza Express in Soho, but is well known for the Thursday jazz concerts he ran for 25 years that featured many famous musicians. He was Head of English at University College School and in 1995 was presented with the BBC Jazz Society Award. Sadly his brother Peter, who wrote this rememberance and who cared for David for many of his later years, has also since passed through the departure lounge. For David's obituary click here: David Lund |
| Nellie Lutcher | Vocals Piano Composer |
b. 15.10.1915 d. 8.6.2007 |
American singer from Louisiana, influenced by Nina Simone. Joined Clarence Hart's Imperial Jazz band at 14, and Southern Rhythm Boys at 28. Started recording for Capitol in 1947 as Nellie Lutcher and her Rhythm. Click here for obituary. Nellie Lutcher. |
| Claude Luter | Clarinet | b. 23.7.1923 |
French clarinettist and bandleader. A prominent musician in Paris, Luter came to jazz in 1938 influenced by Johnny Dodds and then by Sidney Bechet. Luter was 26 when Bechet came to Paris and the two worked closely together until Bechet died in 1959.Click here for obituary.Claude Luter |
| Humphrey Lyttelton | Trumpet Clarinet Tenor Horn Composer |
b. 23.5.1921 d. 25.4.2008 |
British band leader / radio presenter. Encouraged the band when Sandy and Al first moved to London. Invited them to join his own band for the recording of 'Four's Company' and 'Forty And Tight' on Parlophone in 1953. More about Humph. For Humph's obituary click here: Humphrey Lyttelton. |
| Teo Macero | Saxophone Composer Producer |
b. 30.10.1925 d. 19.2.2008 |
Born in Glen Falls, New York, he studied at the Juilliard School of Music and helped Charles Mingus form the Jazz Composers Workshop. He produced the recordings of many jazz greats including Brubeck's 'Time Out' album and Miles Davis's 'Kind Of Blue'. For Teo's obituary click here: Teo Macero. |
| Henry MacKenzie | Clarinet Saxophone |
b. 15.2.1923 d. 2.9.2007 |
Clarinet and saxophone player with the Ted Heath band. He also played freelance clarinet with Henry Mancini, Nelson Riddle, Billy May, Don Lusher and George Chisholm. For Henry's obituary click here: Henry MacKenzie. |
| Spike Mackintosh | Trumpet | ||
| Ross MacManus | Trumpet Vocals |
b. 20.10.1927 d. 24.11.2011 |
The father of singer Elvis Costello, Ross MacManus was a trumpeter and singer from Merseyside who favoured bebop and went on to play with Ronnie Ross and Tubby Hayes before joining Bob Miller and then Joe Loss, developing his career as a singer. For Ross's obituary click here: Ross MacManus |
| Tim Mahn | Bass | ||
| Henry Majewski | Trumpet | ||
| Joe Maneri | Saxophone Clarinet |
b. 9.2.27 d 24.8.2009 |
Saxophonist, clarinettist and microtonal jazz music explorer from Brooklyn who usually played and recorded during the 1990s and early 2000s with his son Mat. For Joe's obituary click here: Joe Maneri |
| Istvan Mankovits | Bass | ||
| Charlie Mariano | Alto Sax | b. 12.11.1923 d. 16.6.2009 |
Alto sax player who contributed bebop solos in Stan kenton and Shelly Manne's bands. He played free jazz with his own band Osmosis and was a pioneer of rock fusion. For Charlie's obituary click here: Charlie Mariano. |
| Teena Marie | Vocals | b. 5.3.1956 d. 26.12.2010 |
White soul singer from California born Mary Christime Brockert who became a Motown star. Motown wasn't quite sure what to make of this girl who sounded black, and purposely packaged her album Wild And Peaceful in a nondescript sleeve that didn't include a picture of her. She once said: 'Each song I was coming up with began to sound like the style of some favourite artist of mine from the past, Curtis Mayfield and Marvin Gaye, Billie Holliday, the old Chicago soul of The Emotions and the new Chicago vibe of Kanye West.' Click here for Teena's obituary: Teena Marie. |
| John Marshall | Drums | b. 28.8.1941 | |
| John Martyn | Guitar Vocals |
b. 11.9.1948 d. 29.1.2009 |
British singer and guitarist who was probably better known for his folk music but who blended folk and jazz, probably most famous for his 1973 album Solid Air. For John's obituary click here: John Martyn |
| Ron Mathewson | Double Bass Bass Guitar |
19.2.1944 | |
| Ewan McColl | Vocals | ||
| Tom McGrath | Piano |
b. 23.10.1940 d. 29.4.2009 |
Glasgow born pianist, performance poet and playwright whose piano playing was influenced by Thelonius Monk, Bud Powell and others and who was influential in bringing concerts by great jazz musicians to Glasgow. For Tom's obituary click here: Tom McGrath |
| Bill McGregor | Bass | ||
| Jimmy McGriff | Organ | b. 3.4.1936 d. 24.5.2008 |
Organist who blended gospel, blues and jazz styles. Recorded for a number of labels including Blue Note and Solid State and his last album 'McGriff Avenue' was released in 2002. For obituary click here: Jimmy McGriff. |
| Dave McKenna | Piano | b. 30.5.1930 d. 18.10.2008 |
Jazz pianist who sounded at his best playing solo but played with Woody Herman, Zoot Sims, Al Cohn, Ruby Braff, Joe Temperley, Bob Wilbur, Buddy Rich, Bobby Hackett , and Charlie Parker amongst others. For Dave's obituary click here: Dave McKenna |
| John McLaughlin | Guitar | b. 4.1.1942 | Played with the Sandy Brown band on the 'Hair at its Hairiest' album.Worked with many UK bands and visiting musicians. Adopted the name Mahavishnu and had bands unfer that name. Appeared in Bernard Tavernier's film Round Midnight. Click here for John's website: John McLaughlin. |
| Al McPake | Guitar | ||
| Tommy McQuater | Trumpet | b. 4.9.1914 d. 20.1.2008 |
Born in Ayrshire, Scotland, Tommy started playing the cornet when he was eleven. He went on to play trumpet with Louis Freeman, Jack Payne, Lew Stone, Bert Ambrose, The Squadronaires, Kenny Baker and Jack Parnell. For Tommy's obituary click here: Tommy McQuater. |
| Neil McShane | Bass | ||
| Jay McShann | Piano | b. 12.1.1916 d. 7.12.2006 |
American pianist, blues singer and bandleader closely associated with Charlie Parker who played in McShann's band in 1940-42. Click here for obituary. Jay McShann |
| Earl May | Bass | b. 17.9.1927 d. 8.1.2008 |
Bass player whose career began at Minton's Playhouse with Lester Young and Carmen McRae and went on to play with many jazz greats including Charlie Parker and Miles Davies. Click here for details from the Jazz Museum in Harlem: Earl May and here for obituary. |
| George Melly | Vocals | b. 17.8.1926 d. 5.7.2007 |
Born in Liverpool, George sang with Mick Mulligan's Magnolia Jazz Band and John Chilton's Feetwarmers but also had a very colourful life which can be read about in his obituary: George Melly . |
| Mae Mercer | Vocals | b. 12.6.1932 d. 29.10.2008 |
Blues singer from North Carolina who became a regular at the Blues bar in Paris, became the first blues artist to appear on French TV, toured with Keith Smith and the Climx Jazz Band in the 60s and was an actor in a number of films and television programmes. Click here for obituary: Mae Mercer. |
| Bobby Mickleburgh | Trumpet |
b. 26.9.1920 | |
| Tony Milliner | Trombone Valve Trombone Bass Trumpet Arranger |
b. 28.12.1929 | Trombone player with Dave Carey and then with Sandy Brown and Al Fairweather from 1957 to 1963. Later played with London Jazz Big Band, Alan Littlejohn, Mingus Music and Willie Garnett. More about Tony. |
| Terry Monaghan | Dance | b. 13.8.1943 d. 26.6.2011 |
Co-founder of the award winning dance company the Jiving Lindy Hoppers and a leading authority on jazz dance. For Terry's obituary click here: Terry Monaghan. |
| James Moody | Saxophone | b. 26.3.1925 d. 9.12.2010 |
American saxophonist and bebop pioneer who worked closely with Dizzy Gillespie from 1946 before joining Miles Davis in 1949 and then working in Europe. He rejoined Dizzy in 1963. He was still recording in the 1990s and received a Jazz Master Award from the National Endowment for the Arts in 1998.For James's obituaty click here: James Moody. |
| Derek Moore | Saxophone | ||
| Frank Morgan | Saxophone | b. 23.12.1933 d. 14.12 2007. |
Protege of Charlie Parker who played with Lionel Hampton but who spent 30 years in prison. Click here for Frank's obituary. Frank Morgan |
| Eddie Mordue | Tenor saxophone | b. 5.1.1928 d. 26.1.2011 |
UK tenor saxophonist who played with the big bands including those of Eric Winstone and Jack Nathan. Once danced with Princess Margaret and recorded with Paul McCartney amongst many others. For Eddie's obituary click here: Eddie Mordue. |
| Joe Morello | Drums | b. 17.7.1928 d. 12.3.2011 |
American drummer born in Massachusetts best known for his work with the Dave Brubeck Quartet in the 1950s. He moved to New York in 1952 and played with Art Pepper, Jay McShann, Johnny Smith and Stan Kenton. Lost his sight in later life but continued to teach. Click here for Joe's obituary: Joe Morello |
| Buddy Morrow | Trombone Bandleader |
b. 8.2.1919 d. 27. 9.2010 |
American trombone player and bandleader. Born Moe Zudekoff, Buddy played with Eddie Condon, Tommy Dorsey, Bob Crosby and others and in recent years has led the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. For Buddy's obituary click here: Buddy Morrow. |
| John Mortimer | Trombone Harmonica |
b. 1937 | |
| Sal Mosca | Piano | b. 27.4.1927 d. 28.7.2007 |
From New York State, Mosca was attracted early to the music of James P. Johnson and Fats Waller and started playing in nightclubs at 15. Strongly influenced by Lennie Tristano, he recorded with Warne Marsh and Lee Konitz. Went on to teach and encourage young musicians. Click here for Sal's obituary. Sal Mosca. Or here for Sal's website. |
| Danny Moss | Tenor Saxophone Clarinet |
b. 16.8.1927 |
World-class British tenor saxophonist who, in the early days, worked as a sideman with amongst others, Ted Heath, Humphrey Lyttelton and Johnny Dankworth. He played regularly with Sandy Brown and Alex Welsh, and was a founder member of the Pizza Express All Stars. Danny was made an MBE in 1990. For Danny's obituary click here: Danny Moss. |
| Paul Motian | Drums Composer |
b. 25.3.1931 d. 22.11.2011 |
American drummer who became part of the legendary Bill Evans trio with bassist Scott LaFaro. He went on to work with Paul Bley and Keith Jarrett and in 1981 when he was 50, teamed up with Joe Lovano and Bill Frisell to form a trio that lasted into the 1990s. Fpr Paul's obituary click here: Paul Motian |
| Marc Moulin | Piano | b. 1942 d. 26.9.2008 |
Belgian pianist who worked with Slide hampton, Dexter Gordon and Clark terry amongst others and created the avante-garde jazz-rock collective 'Placebo'. For more information and videos click here: Marc Moulin. |
| Bheki Mseleku | Piano Saxophone Guitar |
b. 1955 d. 9.9.2008 |
Self-taught South African jazz pianist who also played saxophone and guitar. He had a difficult life with mental and physical health problems, including the loss of the top joints of two fingers on his right hand. Formed the progressive jazz group Spirits Rejoice; played at the 1977 Newport Jazz Festival, worked with Hugh Masekela and Eugene Skeef. For Bheki's obituary click here: Bheki Mseleku |
| Mick Mulligan | Trumpet | b. 24.1.1928 |
British trumpeter and bandleader. Friend of Eddie Condon, Louis Armstrong and Wild Bill Davison. George Melly came to fame in Mick's Magnolia Jazz band. Click here for Mick's obituary Mick Mulligan. |
| Doug Murray | Piano Trombone |
d. 2.2010 | Pianist and trombonist from Ireland who initially played with the Ulster Rhythm Kings before coming to East London where he played with Bob Whetstone's band. Friend of Sandy Brown and Al Fairweather who helped him find his way round the London jazz scene in the 1960s. He played for many years in North London pubs with people like Wally Fawkes, Ian Christie, Colin Smith and Cambell Burnap, and was pianist for Mike Daniels Delta Jazz Band. Click here for Doug's obituary: Doug Murray. |
| Corey Mwamba | Vibraphone |
b.2.11.1976
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Derby based vibraphone and dulcimer player and one of the third intake of the Take Five initiative to support emerging jazz musicians. Involved in a nummber of projects to support and encourage other musicians. More about Corey. |
| Dave Mylne | Drums | ||
| Ivan Nagy | Trombone | ||
| Jeno Nagy | Guitar | ||
| Billy Neill | Guitar | ||
| David 'Fathead' Newman | Saxophones | b. 24.2.1933 d. 20.1.2009 |
American saxophonist who played with the influential Buster Smith band, and with pianist Lloyd Glen before being recruited by Ray Charles until 1964 when Newman became a session musician. Nominated for a Grammy award in 1990 with Art Blakey and Dr John for their album Bluesiana Triangle. For obituary click here: David Newman |
| George Oag | Guitar | d. 2008 | |
| Mike Oakley | Guitar | ||
| Tomasz Ochalski | Piano | ||
| Anita O'Day | Vocals | b. 18.10.1919 d. 23.11.2006 |
American jazz singer who worked with Gene Krupa, Stan Kenton, Woody Herman and Roy Eldridge. Click here for Anita's obituary. Anita O'Day |
| Ruan O'Lochlainn | Guitar Saxophone Clarinet Piano |
b. 11.10.1942 d. 8.5.1988 |
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| Bobby Orr | Drums Trumpet |
b. 15.8.1928 | |
| Mike Osborne | Saxophone | b. 28.9.1941 d. 19.9.2007 |
British Alto Sax player who emerged in the 1960s playing in Mike Westbrook's band with John Surman and Malcolm Griffiths. Returned to Westbrook's later band, played with Mike Gibbs and Humphrey Lyttelton and led his own trios. Click here for Mike's obituary. Mike Osborne. |
| Earl Palmer | Drums | b. 25.10.1924 d. 19.9.2008 |
Drummer from New Orleans who tap danced with Ida Cox's Darktown Scandals Review. He drummed for Dizzy Gillespie and Count Basie and played blues with B.B. King and soul with Ray Charles. Helped to invent the backbeat that came to define the sound of rock and roll. For obituary click here: Earl Palmer. |
| Brian Parker | Bass | ||
| Johnny Parker | Piano | b. 6.11.1929 |
Pianist with Humphrey Lyttelton, Kenny Ball and Alexis Korner, amongst others. Featured on Humph's 'BadPpenny Blues' and on the recording made by Sandy Brown and Al Fairweather with Humph's band. More about Johnny. |
| Jack Parnell | Drums Bandleader |
b. 6.8.1923 |
British drummer and bandleader who played with Buddy Featherstonhaugh and then formed the Lewis-Parnell Jazzmen with Vic Lewis. In 1945 he joined Ted Heath's band until in 1951, he formed his own band. After working for ATV as musical director, he toured with the Best of British Jazz show during the 1990s. For Jack's obituary click here: Jack Parnell. |
| Dru Paterson | Piano | ||
| Ottilie Patterson | Vocals | b. 31.1.1932 d. 20.6.2011 |
Born in Ireland in 1932, she joined Chris Barber's band in 1954 impressing everyone with her incredible voice. She contracted throat problems in 1963, but went on singing with the band occasionally until 1973. Click here for Ottilie's obituary: Ottilie Patterson. |
| Les Paul | Guitar | b. 9.6.1915 d. 13.8.2009 |
Influential guitarist of the 20th century who gave his name to the Gibson Les Paul guitar and who played in the 1930s in support of Chicago blues singer Georgia White and with the Nat King Cole Trio. For Les's obituary click here: Les Paul |
| Dave Paxton | Clarinet | b. 16.4.1926 |
Contempoarary of Sandy Brown at Royal High School who learned to play clarinet with Sandy and played with Sandy's band at Edinburgh Jazz Club. More about Dave. |
| Cecil Payne | Saxophone |
b. 14.12.2007 |
First to play be bop on the baritone saxophone and played with Dizzy Gillespie, Tadd Dameron, Illinois Jacquet and James Moody. Click here for Cecil's obituary. Cecil Payne |
| Johnny Pearson | Piano Bandleader |
b. 18.6.1925 d. 20.3.2011 |
UK pianist and bandleader born in Derbyshire. He played piano with the Malcolm Mitchell Trio and the Peter York Concert Orchestra and then moved on to more easy-listening and popular music with his Johnny Pearson Orchestra. Click here for more Johnny's obituary: Johnny Pearson |
| Graciela Perez-Gutierrez | Vocals | b. 23.8.1915 d. 7.4.2010 |
Singer from Havana who with Machito and his Afro-Cubans paved the way for Latin Jazz fusion. For Graciela's obituary click here: Graciela Perez-Gutierrez |
| Pinetop Perkins | Guitar Piano |
b. 7.7.1913 d. 21.3.2011 |
American Blues guitarist and pianist born in Mississippi who has been inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame. Amongst others, he played with Earl Hooker, Muddy Waters and the Legendary Blues Band. Click here forPinetop's obituary: Pinetop Perkins |
| Rufus Perryman | Piano | b. 23.10.1892 d. 2.1.1973 |
Barrelhouse pianist Rufus 'Speckled Red' Perryman was born in Monroe, Louisiana and died inSt Louis in 1973. Michael Hortog in Austria is researching Rufus's story. Please contact us if you have any information you can offer. |
| Oscar Peterson | piano | b. 15.8.1925 d. 24.12.2007 |
Outstanding pianist who could play two-fisted stride, or complex and intricate be-bop piano. Click here for Oscar's obituary. Oscar Peterson. |
| John Picard | Trombone Piano |
b. 17.5.1934 | |
| Zdzislaw Piernik | Bass | ||
| Trudy Pitts | Organ | b. 1932 d. 19.12.2010 |
American soul and jazz keyboard player from Philadelphia who was known for playing the Hammond B3 organ. She played with Ben Webster, Gene Ammons and Sonny Stitt, and with Mary Lou Williams in 2006 at the Women in Jazz Festival at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. For Trudy's obituary click here: Trudy Pitts. |
| Herb Pomeroy | Trumpet | b. 15.5.1930 d. 11.8.2007 |
American trumpeter who played with Charlie Parker, Stan Kenton and Lionel Hampton before teaching at a music school in Boston, Massachusetts. Click here for Herb's obituary: Herb Pomeroy. |
| Alan Poston | Drums | ||
| Benny Powell | Trombone | b. 1.3.1930 d. 26.6.2010 |
Trombone player and musical educator who played with King Kolax, Ernie Fields, Lionel Hampton and Count Basie. Click here for Benny's obituary: Benny Powell. |
| Red Price | Saxophone Piano Organ |
b. 1926 |
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| Sammy Price | Piano |
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| Brian Prudence | Bass | ||
| Colin Purbrook | Piano |
b. 26.2.1936 d. 1999 |
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| Wardell Quezergue | Producer |
b. 12.3.1930 d. 6.9.2011 |
New Orleans producer, arranger and bandleader sometimes called 'the Creole Beethoven'. He produced many hit songs for the likes of B.B. King, Stevie Wonder and Willie Nelson. For Wardell's obituary click here: Wardell Quezergue |
| Steve Race | Piano |
b. 1.4.1921 d. 22.6.2009 |
Pianist, composer, arranger and broadcaster. Steve Race played with the dance bands of Harry Leader, Lew Stone, Cyril Stapleton and George Elrick but became a key, outspoken presenter of jazz programmes such as Jazz In Perspective, Jazz 625 on television and Jazz Record Requests on radio. He also wrote for many publications including Jazz Journal. Click here for Steve's obituary: Steve Race. A futher obituary from the Times can be found here. |
| Johnny Raducanu | Piano Double Bass |
b. 1.12.1931 d. 19.9.2011 |
Romanian pianist and double bass player born Raducan Cretu to a Roma family. His mother and grandmother bothe played piano for silent movies. During the communist years he was allowed to tour other Eastern European countries, then Western Europe and the United States where he played with Art Farmer, Slide Hampton and others. In later years, called the 'Romanian Mr Jazz' he was frequently found playing at Lapataria Enache in Bucharest. For Johnny's obituary click here: Johnny Raducanu |
| John Rae | Bass | ||
| Hugh Rainey | Guitar Banjo Trumpet |
b. 6.7.1936 | |
| Neva Raphaello | Vocals | b. 1915 d. 1975 |
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| Valdemar Rasmussen | Trumpet | ||
| Will Redpath | Bass | ||
| Barry Reeves | Drums | b. 1944 d. 2010 |
Drummer from Birmingham who probably became best known for his work with the James Last Orchestra, but in 1988 he married singer Madeline Bell and worked with her at many venues, including Ronnie Scott's Club. He finally gave up drumming to become Madeline's manager when he broke his arm. Click here for Barry's obituary: Barry Reeves |
| Irene Reid | Vocals |
b. 23.9.1930 d. 5.1.2008 |
Blues/gospel style singer whosang with the Dick Vance band in Harlem and joined the Basie band before forming her own group. Click here for Irene's obituary: Irene Reid. |
| Steve Reid | Drums | b. 29.1.1944 d. 13.4.2010 |
American drummer whose family lived three blocks away from John Coltrane in New York. Steve played with Miles Davis, Ornette Coleman, James Brown, Fela Kuti and Sun Ra amongst others. For more about Steve click here: Steve Reid. |
| Sue Richardson | Trumpet |
Trumpet player and singer named in Jazz wise magazine as one of the rising musicians to look out for in 2008. Influenced by Chet Baker, Clifford Brown and Ella Fitzgerald amongst others. More about Sue. | |
| Sam Rivers | Saxophone Flute Piano Bandleader |
b. 25.9.1923 d. 26.12.2011 |
American avante-garde saxophonist who played with Jaki Byard, toured with Billie Holiday, and then with drummer Tony Williams joined Miles Davis, taking John Coltrane's chair. He soon left and recorded under his own name before going on to work with Andrew Hill, Cecil Taylor and Dizzy Gillespie. In 1998 he established the Rivbea All-Star Orchestra in Florida. For Sam's obituary click here: Sam Rivers |
| Max Roach | Drums |
b. 10.1.1924 d. 16.8.2007 |
Drummer with Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Jay Jay Johnson, Bud Powel, Clifford Brown and Sonny Rollins.Inventive drummer who revolutionised the role of the drums in a band. Click here for Max's obituary Max Roach |
| Peter Robarts-Arnold | Trumpet | ||
| Matana Roberts | Saxophone | b. 1976 | Amercian saxophone player from Chicago and New York nominated as a 'musician to look out for in 2008' by Jazzwise magazine. More about Matana. |
| Frank Robinson | Piano | b. 1926 d. 2011 |
UK pianist and founder member of the Merseysippi Jazz Band in 1949. The band performed at the opening of Liverpool's Cavern Club, and also alongside Louis Armstrong at Liverpool Stadium in 1956. Click here for Fran's obituary: Frank Robinson. |
| Freddy Robinson | Guitar | b. 24.2.1939 d. 8.10.2009 |
(aka Abu Talib) Blues guitarist who played with Little Walter and then with Howlin' Wolf - who apparently distrusted Freddy's jazz leanings. In early 70s played with John Mayall and also trumpeter Blue Mitchell. Click here for Freddy's obituary: Freddy Robinson |
| John Rodber | Bass | ||
| Nico Rojas | Guitar Composer |
b. 3.8.1921 d. 22.11.2008 |
Cuban guitarist and composer of the 'filin' movement which combined Cuban rhythms with harmonies and melodies influenced by North American jazz in the 1940s and 1950s. Click here for Nico's obituary: Nico Rojas |
| Lina Romay | Vocals | b. 16.1.1922 d. 17.12.2010 |
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| Edmundo Ros | Bandleader Drums Saxophone |
b. 7.12.1910 d. 21.10.2011 |
Primarily a popular latin-american bandleader, drummer and saxophonist, his main link to jazz was that he accompanied Fats Waller on the numbers A-Tisket, A-Tasket and Music Maestro Please. For Edmundo's obituary click here: Edmundo Ros. |
| Lita Roza | Vocals | b. 14.3.1926 d. 14.8.2008 |
Born Lilian Roza in Liverpool, England, she went on to sing with Harry Roy and Ted Heath. Click here for Lita's obituary. Lita Roza. |
| Alvin Roy | Clarinet Bandleader |
b. 1940 | Clarinetist who led the successful Saratoga Jazz Band in many of the most popular jazz venues during the 1960s. Went on to take a residency with his band at the Prospect of Whitby in London. Now lives in Oxfordshire where he plays with his band Reeds Unliminted. More about Alvin. |
| Ron Rubin | Piano |
b. 8.7.1933 | Ron joined the Fairweather-Brown band in 1962 and left in 1964to play with a wide variety of bands and many outstanding musicians. More about Ron. |
| Pete Rugolo | Composer Arranger Baritone Horn |
b. 25.12.1915 d. 16.10.2011 |
Born Pietro Rugolo, he learned to play baritone horn but became best known as a jazz composer and arranger who worked closely with Stan Kenton and west Coast musicians. Working as a rep for Capitol Records, her recorded Miles Davis with Gerry Mulligan in a series of records that would lead to 'Cool Jazz'. For Pete's obituary click here: Pete Rugolo |
| George Russell | Drums Composer Arranger |
b. 23.6.1923 d. 27.7.2009 |
Composer who started as a jazz drummer around 1944. Composed and arranged for Dizzy Gillespie and involved musicians such as Bill Evans, Eric Dolphy, Jan Garbarek and Andy Sheppard in his work. For George's obituary click here: George Russell |
| Pee Wee Russell | Clarinet | ||
| Paul Rutherford | Trombone | b. 29.2.1940 d. 6.8.2007 |
Important figure in the European free improvisation scene. Played with Neil Ardley's New Jazz Orchestra, Mike Westbrook and the London Jazz Composers Orchestra. For obituary click here. Paul Rutherford. |
| Carl Salans | Piano | ||
| Gerry Salisbury | Trumpet Cornet Double Bass Valve Trombone Vibraphone |
b. 7.8.1929 | |
| Johnny Scott | Saxophones Flute Clarinet Harp Vibraphone Composer Arranger |
b. 1.11.1930 | |
| Mike Scott | Drums | ||
| Tony Scott | Clarinet Saxophone Composer |
b. 17.6.1921 d. 28.3.2007 |
American born Anthony Sciacca. Influenced by Benny Goodman he played in jam sessions at Minton's with Dizzy Gillespie, Lester Young, and Ben Webster who took Tony under his wing. Went on to play with Charlie Parker and Billie Holiday. Click here for Tony's obituary. Tony Scott. |
| Gil Scott-Heron | Piano Guitar Vocals |
b. 1.4.1949 d. 27.5.2011 |
Born in Chicago, to a Jamaican father, pianist, guitarist and vocalist Gil Scott-Heron was primarily a writer and poet. He described himself as 'A Black man dedicated to expression, expression of the joy and pride of Blackness'. He led the Midnight Band on keyboards, toured with Stevie Wonder and is seen as the forerunner of Rap music. For Gil's obituary click here: Gil Scott-Heron. |
| Phil Seamen | Drums | b. 28.8.1926 d. 13.10.1972 |
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| Peggy Seeger | Guitar |
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| Archie Semple | Clarinet Trumpet |
b. 31.3.1928 d. 26.1.1974 |
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| John Semple | Piano | ||
| Reg Service | Trumpet | d. 2011 | UK trumpeter who grew up in Streatham, London. He was one of the few British black musicians who played jazz in the UK before the Second World War. He formed a band with classmates at school in Brixton Hill, went on to work with Ken 'Snake Hips' Johnson, and from the 1970s to 1990s worked with Mike Daniels and Trevor Swale. For Reg's obituary click here: Reg Service. |
| Keith Shadwick |
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b. 24.7.1951 d.28.7.2008 |
Saxophone player who became jazz section editor of Gramophone magazine; a broadcaster; produced a number of reference books; biographies of Bill Evans, Jimi Hendrix and Led Zepplin, and wrote for Jazzwise magazine since 1997. His solo album 'Free Time' (Candid) was just finished before he died. Click here for Keith's obituary. Keith Shadwick. |
| Bud Shank | Clarinet Flute Alto-sax |
b. 27.5.1926 d. 2.4.2009 |
Clarinet, flute and alto-sax player with Stan Kenton's band and later with the Lighhouse All Stars. Clich here for Bud's obituary: Bud Shank. |
| George Shearing | Piano Bandleader Composer |
b. 13.8.1919 d. 14.2.2011 |
Pianist, bandleader and composer Sir George Shearing was born in Battersea but emigrated to the United States where he played for many singers including Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Nancy Wilson and Mel Tormé. He claimed that he was 'not a jazz pianist but a pianist who played jazz'. He formed his own famous Quintet in 1949 and was the compopser of 'Lullaby of Birdland'. He was made an OBE in 1996 and Knighted in 2007. For George's obituary click here: Sir George Shearing |
| Norman Sheffield | Drums | ||
| Sid Simmons | Piano | d. 5.11.2010 | Pianist from Philadelphia. 'He combined the class of Bill Evans with the soul and hard-hitting style of Oscar Peterson.. and along with being a fine musician and a mentor to many other pianists, as well as an influence on other instrumentalists.' For Sid's obituary click here: Sid Simmons. |
| Sirone (Norris Jones) | Double Bass | b. 28.9.1940 d. 21.10.2009 |
American double bass player and founder member of the Revolutionary Ensemble who explored a freer and intuative approach to playing. For Sirone's obituary click here: Sirone. |
| Betty Smith | Saxophone | b. 6.7.1929 d. 21.1.2011 |
UK tenor sax player who joined Ivy Benson's band and then played with Freddy Randall before forming her own Quintet. She then worked with Kenny Baker and in the early 70s was a founder-member of the sextet Best Of British Jazz. For Betty's obituary click here: Betty Smith |
| Don Smith | Bass | ||
| Harry Smith | Piano | b. 24.2.1921 | |
| Keith Smith | Trumpet Vocals |
b. 19.3.1940 d. 4.1.2008 |
Trumpeter with amateur bands in London in 1950s. Turned professional with Mickey Ashman in 1960. Formed his Climax Jazz Band in 1962. Moved to New Orleans and then to Denmark before returning to Britain to form Hefty Jazz. Led Louis Armstrong All Stars in 1981. Recorded with Sandy Brown in 1969. Click here for Keith's obituary: Keith Smith |
| Ray Smith | Drums | b. 9.9.1934 d. 17.4.2011 |
Drummer and proprietor of Ray's Jazz record shop in Soho. Ray played drums with Wally Fawkes band in the 1950s and 1960s. In 1983 he took over the jazz record business from Collett's and eventually sold it to Foyles in 2002. Click here for ray's obituary: Ray Smith |
| Willie 'Big Eyes' Smith | Drums Harmonica Bandleader |
b. 19.1.1936 d. 16.9.2011 |
American drummer and bandleader best known for his work with the Muddy Waters band. He worked as a session musician with many blues and soul bands and formed the Legendary Blues Band with Pinetop Perkins, Calvin Jones and Jerry Portnoy. He was named Drummer Of The Year on many occasions by the Blues Foundation, and in later life he reverted to playing the harmonica. In 2010 he released Joined At The Hip with Pinetop Perkins and with his son Kenny 'Beady Eyes' Smith on drums. For Willie's obituary click here: Willie Smith |
Little Smokey Smothers |
Guitar Vocals |
b. 2.1.1939 d. 20.11.2010 |
American blues guitarist from Mississippi who was part of Howlin' Wolf's band and who sat in with Muddy waters. He was influential in the Chicago Blues scene of the 1960s and brought together the Paul Butterfield Blues Band. For Smokey's obituary click here: Little Smokey Smothers. |
| Jo Stafford | Vocals | b. 12.11.1917 d. 16.7.2008 |
Columbia Records vocalist who was the first woman to top the UK charts with her single 'You Belong To Me'. She sang with Tommy Dorsey's band before moving on to make popular recordings, often in duet with other singers such as Frankie Laine and Gordon MacRae. For Jo's obituary click here: Jo Stafford |
| Dave Stevens | Piano | b. 26.7.1925 | |
| Sonny Stitt | Saxophone | b. 2.2.1924 d. 22.7.1982 |
American be-bop jazz saxophonist. Played with Stan Getz, Dizzy Gillespie, Billy Eckstine and Miles Davis. For more about Sonny click here or to see and hear him click here. |
| Bill Strachan | Drums | ||
| Richard (Dick) Sudhalter | Cornet Critic |
b. 28.12.1938 d. 19.9.2008 |
American cornet player who modelled his playing on Bix Beiderbecke. Worked for United Press International and wrote a controversial book extolling the white contribution to early jazz and also a biography of Bix. Formed the New Paul Whiteman Orchestra in London with Alan Cohen, Keith Nicholls and John R.T. Davies. Click here for obituary: Dick Sudhalter. |
| Stan Sulzman | Saxophones Clarinet Flute Composer Arranger |
b. 30.11.1948 | |
| Monty Sunshine | Clarinet | b. 9.4.1928 d. 30.11.2010 |
UK clarinet player who was at the forefront of the traditional jazz boom of the late 1950s / early 1960s. He first joined Ken Colyer's Crane River Jazz Band before joining Chris Barber and Pat Halcox in Chris's band. Monty had a number of 'hit' recordings including Si Tu Vois Ma Mère and perhaps the most well known million-seller Petite Fleur. Monty was still recording in the 1990s. For Monty's obituary click here: Monty Sunshine. |
| Alan Sutton | Drums | ||
| Esbjorn Svensson | Piano Bandleader |
b. 16.4.1964 d. 14.6.2008 |
Born in Sweden, Esbjorn's father revered Duke Ellington. The pianist formed the group e.s.t. (Esbjorn Svensson Trio) which drew inspiration from Bach and the baroque, ambient music, rock and techno. For Esbjorn's obituary click here: Esbjorn Svensson |
| Freddy Syer | Alto-saxophone | b. 1930 d. 2010 |
UK alto saxophonist who was part of the post-War bebop scene in London and went to Canada where he played with a number of well-known jazz musicians. Returning to the UK he played with Geraldo and Tommy Sampson before returning to live in America. For Freddy's obituary click here: Freddy Syer |
| Madilu System | Vocals | b. 28.5.1952 d. 11.8.2007 |
Born Jean de Dieu Makiese in the now Democratic Republic of Congo, he was a star vocalist with TPOK Jazz (The All-Powerful Kinshasa Orchestra) and spearheaded the 1960-1980s craze for Rumba Congolaise music. Click here for Madilu's obituary. Madilu System. |
| Dr Billy Taylor | Piano Composer |
b. 24.7.1921 | American pianist and composer who played with Ben Webster, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis and others but probably as well known for his work as an advocate for jazz, as a broadcaster and educator. A friend said Billy Taylor was 'one of our best spokesmen ever in the history of this music. To the point that, it's my feeling and others, that he sacrificed his jazz piano playing for the cause of jazz.' Click here for Billy's obituary: Dr Billy Taylor. |
| Eddie Taylor | Drums | b. 12.2.1929 | |
| Koko Taylor | Blues singer | b. 28.9.1928 d. 3.6.2009 |
Born Cora Walton in Tennessee, blues singer Koko Taylor was called 'The Queen of the Blues' and 'brought a raw intensity and Southern earthiness' to the Chicago blues scene. For Koko's obituary click here: Koko Taylor |
| Nat Temple | Clarinet Bandleader |
b. 18.7.1913 d. 30.5.2008 |
Clarinet player and band leader who came to prominence on the radio during the 1940s and 1950s. Played with the Sam Costa and Harry Roy bands and formed his own band in 1947. For Nat's obituary click here: Nat Temple |
| Ed Thigpen | Drums | b. 28.12.1930 d. 13.1.2010 |
American drummer from Chicago who played with Oscar Peterson and Billy Taylor. After touring with Ella Fitzgerald he moved to Denmark in 1972. Click here for more information: Ed Thigpen |
| Alan Thomas | Piano | b. 2.4.1930 | Pianist with the Sandy Brown band in the early 1950s, Alan also played with the Cy Laurie band. Alan has now retired to Portugal. |
| Ole Toft | Trombone | ||
| Cliff Townshend | Alto
Saxophone Baritone Saxophone Clarinet |
b. 28.1.1916 d. 29.6.1986 |
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| Bobby Tucker | Piano | b. 8.1.1923 d. 12.4.2008 |
Pianist from New jersey who accompanied Mildred Bailey and backed Billie Holiday . Played with bebop and mainstream bands and became musical director for Billy Eckstine. Bruce Crowther has written an obituary in for Jazz Journal International of July 2008 (not available on line) and there is other information by clicking here although there is a date error in the piece where his death is given as 2007. |
| Bruce Turner | Alto Saxophone Saxophones Clarinet Composer |
b. 5.7.1922 d. 28.11.1993 |
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| Richard Turner | Trumpet | b. 30.7.1984 d. 11.8.2011 |
UK trumpeter with the bands Round Trip and Friendly Fires. A recent graduate from the Royal Academy of Music he suffered a ruptured aortic aneurysm while swimming. He was just 27. For Richard's obituary click here: Richard Turner. |
| John Twiss | Guitar | ||
| Trevor Tyson | Drums | ||
| Mo Umansky | Banjo Guitar String Bass Electric Bass |
b. 19.6.1934 | Mo played with the Sandy Brown Band from around 1954-1956. When he left he became a design engineer and went on to play with jazz bands in the London area and to form soul bands. More about Mo. |
| Carlos Valdes | Conga Drums | b. 4.11.1928 d. 4.12.2007 |
Carlos 'Patato' Valdes introduced the conga drum to jazz and played with Art Blakey, Herbie Mann and Dizzy Gillespie. For Carlos' obituary click here. Carlos Valdes. |
| Billy VerPlanck | Trombone Arranger |
b. 1930 d.2.6.2009 |
Billy VerPlanck - Billy began playing trombone with the Jess Stacey band when he was fifteen, and went on to play with and write arrangements for Charlie Spivak, Claude Thornhill, Jimmy and Tommy Dorsey and Charlie Barnet. Billy's wife is the singer Marlene VerPlanck. |
| Derek Wadsworth | Trombone | b. 5.2.1939 d. 3.12.2008 |
Trombonist who played in a number of different genres including jazz with Neil Ardley, jazz-rock with Colosseum and blues with Savoy Brown. For Derek's obituary click here: Derek Wadsworth |
| Phillip Walker | Guitar Vocals |
b. 11.2.1937 d. 22.7 2010 |
Guitarist and Blues singer born in Louisiana where he worked with Lonesome Sundown and Long John Hunter before moving to Los Angeles. In 1969, began working with producers and songwriters Bromberg and Walker and collaborated with them for the next 20 years. For Phillips obituary click here: Phillip Walker. |
| Bob Wallis | Trumpet Vocals |
b. 3.6.1934 d. 10.1.1991 |
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| Harry Walton | Drums Vibes |
d..2009 | British drummer and vibes player who claimed to be the longest serving jazz musician born and bred in Leicester. For Harry's obituary click here: Harry Walton |
| Arthur Watts | Double Bass Bass Guitar |
b. 27.5.1928 d. ?.1.1993 |
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| George Webb | Clarinet Bandleader |
b. 8.10.1917 d. 11.3.2010 |
Pianist born in Camberwell who founded the Bexleyheath Jazz Club and in 1941 formed his Dixielanders band. Several members of the band would go on to become major British jazz figures including Wally Fawkes, Eddie Harvey and Humphrey Lyttelton. For George's obituary click here: George Webb |
| Johnny Webb | Drums | ||
| Cedric West | Guitar Trombone |
b. 9.12.1918 | |
| Harvey Weston | Double Bass Bass Guitar |
b. 2.3.1940 | |
| Ian Wheeler | Clarinet Saxophones Harmonica |
b. 13.1.1931 d. 27.6.2011 |
Clarinet, saxophone and harmonica player born in London in 1931. He formed the River City Jazz band in 1952 and played with the bands of Mike Daniels, Ken Colyer and Keith Smith's Hefty Jazz amongst others. Ian spent two periods with Chris Barber's band from 1961 to 1968 and 1979 to 1998. Click here for Ian's obituary: Ian Wheeler. |
| Kenny Wheeler | Trumpet Flugelhorn Composer Arranger |
b. 14.1.1930 | |
| Tam White | Vocals | b. 12.7.1942 d. 21.6.2010 |
Scottish blues legend credited as the first person to sing live on Top Of The Pops, his career brought him into contact with people such as BB King and Eric Clapton. Born in Edinburgh in July 1942, he was first noticed at the age of 11 in a contest in Princes Street Gardens. Click here for more about Tam: Tam White |
| Tommy Whittle | Saxophones Clarinet Bass Clarinet Flute Piccolo |
b. 13.10.1926 | |
| Gerry Wiggins | Piano | b. 12.5.1922 d. 13.7.2008 |
American West Coast pianist who played on Les Hite's 'Jersey Bounce' a record that featured one of the earliest be-bop solos by Dizzy Gillespie. Played with Louis Armstrong, Benny Carter, Scott Hamilton, Lena Horne and many other singers. Click here for obituary: Gerry Wiggins. |
| Richard Willcox | Trombone | b. 30.11.1938 d. 21.12.2007 |
Trombone player with Wally Fawkes. Radio producer for Jazz Score. Click here for obituary: Richard Willcox |
| Roy Williams | Trombone | b. 7.3.1937 | |
| Lou Williamson | Drums Vibes |
b. 1947 d. 2009 |
Scottish born drummer and vibes player who moved to Canada. Played with Houston Person, Bill Watrous and Paquito D'Riviera. We do not have an obituary for Lou, but clicking on his name will take you to a page about him from earlier in 2009: Lou Williamson |
| Joe Lee Wilson | Vocals | b. 22.12.1935 d. 17.7.2011 |
African American / Creek Native American jazz vocalist who performed with Sonny Rollins, Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard and others. Foe Joe Lee's obituary click here: Joe Lee Wilson. |
| Amy Winehouse | Vocals | b. 14.9.1983 d. 23.7.2011 |
UK singer who sang at times with great jazz interpretation and who died young after a career troubled by drug addiction. For Amy's obituary click here: Amy Winehouse. |
| Denny Wright | Guitar |
b. 6.5.1924 |
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| Lee Young | Drums Trumpet Trombone Piano Soprano Saxophone Band Leader |
b.7.3.1917 d. 31.7.2008 |
Brother of Lester Young. Learned to play trumpet, trombone, piano and soprano sax but finally settled on the drums. Played with Mutt Carey, Buck Clayton, Fats Waller, Nat King Cole and others. Click here for Joe's obituary. Lee Young |
| Snooky Young | Trumpet |
b. 3.2.1919 |
American trumpeter born in Ohio in 1919. He played with the bands of Jimmie Lunceford, Count Basie, Lionel hampton, Les Hite, Benny Carter and others. Click here for Snooky's obituary: Snooky Young. |
| Joe Zawinul | Piano | b. 7.7.1932 |
Classically trained pianist who moved from Austria to the United States in 1959 but embraced jazz whilst training at the Vienna Conservatory. Played with Maynard Ferguson, Cannonball Adderley, Miles davis and Weather report which he formed with Wayne Shorter. Click here for Joe's obituary. Joe Zawinul. |
| Mel Zelnick | Drums | b. 28.9.1924 d. 21.2.2008 |
Drummer who played with the US Army band during World war II and went on to play with Benny Goodman in the 1950s and then for Patti Page, Ray Charles and Nat King Cole. He taught drumming in his latter years to many students. For Mel's obituary click here: Mel Zelnick |
| Bela Zoltan | Trumpet | ||
| Mike Zwerin | Trombone | b. 18.5.1930 d. 2.4.2010 |
Trombone player who at the age of 19, played with Miles Davis for a week and went on to tour the Soviet Union with Earl Hines. He also played with Eric Dolphy, John Lewis, Maynard Ferguson and Larry Rivers. For Mike's obituary click here: Mike Zwerin |
© Sandy Brown Jazz 2007-2011
