Jazz Artists Pre-1945

Roy Eldridge

Explosive, boisterous, competitive, words that describe trumpeter Roy Eldridge. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Eldridge was one of the most important trumpeters of his generation to emerge on the scene. Part of the reason why he is so important is because he was one of ... more

Count Basie

Through a six and half decade career William “Count” Basie exemplified the swing style in a powerful manner. His bands would often play with the force of a Mack truck, and within a few measures quiet to a whisper. Basie loved the blues, and it was a launching pad for many ... more

Harry James

Trumpeter Harry James was very popular with his mainstream sound. James was born in Albany, Georgia and began his career by playing with the Ben Pollard group. James then followed into Benny Goodman’s group and became a favorite for his verbose trumpet playing. In ... more

Art Tatum

“God is in the house tonight” were the famous words uttered by pianist/composer extraordinaire Fats Waller on Art Tatum. In Jazz history there have been few players with the imagination and more importantly technique, that astonished everyone who crossed his path. Born on ... more

Coleman Hawkins

When discussing artists at the forefront of their fields and then embracing change, naturally adapting with their own voices names such as Coleman Hawkins immediately come to mind. Born in 1904 and affectionately nicknamed Hawk or Bean, the young Hawkins started his journey ... more

Louis Armstrong

Throughout the history of Jazz, perhaps it can be said there is no more influential figure than Louis Armstrong. From the music’s early history he was able to galvanize the African, and European roots creating the form that we most recognize today. Armstrong was born ... more