Author Archives: jeff
Eric Dolphy
Biography: “This is not music to roller skate by,” wrote A.B. Spellman of jazz multi-instrumentalist Eric Dolphy’s 1964 release Out to Lunch. Consisting entirely of compositions written by Dolphy, Out to Lunch demands attention from the listener from its first notes. By the third song … Continue reading
Harry Lillis “Bing” Crosby
Biography For many, Bing Crosby’s musical legacy remains nothing more than the annual Christmas ritual of watching the 1954 film White Christmas. He appears to some as the antiquated song and dance man in black and white; the old fashioned … Continue reading
Julian Edwin Adderley
Biography: Julian Edwin “Cannonball” Adderley, a legendary alto saxophonist, was born in Tampa, FL on Sept. 15, 1928. The nickname “Cannonball” came to him early on in his childhood and referred to his portly stature. He will always be known … Continue reading
Ferdinand “Jelly Roll” Morton
Biography: Jelly Roll Morton (1890 – 1941) was the first great composer and piano player of Jazz. He was a talented arranger who wrote special scores that took advantage of the three-minute limitations of the 78 rpm records. But more … Continue reading
Curtis Lee Mayfield
Biography: CURTIS LEE MAYFIELD (b. June 3, 1942 – December 26, 1999) by Mark Allred You are right. The music of Curtis Mayfield is not considered JAZZ. Yet he has influenced those who are considered jazz. In fact he has … Continue reading