Lionel Hampton-Ernie Andrews-Gerald Wiggins Trio-Harry 'Sweets'
Lionel Hampton and his Band Live at The John Anson Ford Amphitheater
© 2000 Lionel Hampton-Ernie Andrews-Gerald Wiggins Trio-Harry 'Sweets' (634479258329)
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Big band jazz, jazz singing, jazz trio, performed live!
tracks
- 1 M.C. Chick Niles)Lover Man- Gerald Wiggins Trio
- 2 Land of dreams- Gerald Wiggins Trio
- 3 So Wonderful-Herry Sweets Edison with Gerald Wiggins Trio
- 4 I Wish I Know- Harry Sweets Edison with Gerald Wiggins Trio
- 5 There will never Be Another You- Harry Sweets Edison with Gerald
- 6 It Must Have Been Something I Dreamed Last Night- Erine Andrews
- 7 Everybody's Somebody's fool- Arnie Andrews with the Gerald Wiggi
- 8 fire & Rain- Arnie Andrews with Gerald Wiggins Trio
- 9 don't Toch Me- Arnie Andrews with Gerald Wiggins Trio
- 10 Introduction by: Steve Allen-Blues- Lionel Hampton and his Band
- 11 Brand New Baby- Lionel Hampton and his Band
- 12 soul Serenade- Lionel Hampton and his Band
- 13 Blues Franklin Flat- Lionel Hampton and his Band
- 14 Where or When- Lionel Hampton and his Band
- 15 When I Fall in Love- Lionel Hampton and his Band
- 16 Hamp's Boggie Woggie- Lionel Hampton and his Band
- 17 Night in Tunisia- Lionel Hampton and his Band
- 18 flying Home- Lionel Hampton and his Band
- 19 Wonderful World- Lionel Hampton and his Band
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VIRGINIA WICKS & ASSOCIATES Public Relations Consultants
For Immediate Release Jan. 15,2002
Lionel Hampton and his Big Band "Live" at the John Anson Ford Amphitheater, with Ernie Andrews, The Gerald Wiggins Trio, Hairy "Sweets" Edison and
Teddy Edwards
Concert introduction by musician, composer, author and TV star Steve Alten and MC'd by radio KLON's Chuck Niles. A two-disc CD of a "live" concert held at The John Anson Ford Amphitheater in Hollywood, CA on Oct 18,1998. Produced by Lloyd Rucker. Released Jan. 11, 2002 by Phillip Records - 11288 Venture Blvd. #610. Studio City, CA 91604. Tel. 818-985-9889. Distributed @ www.cdbaby.com or tel. 1-800-448-6369. This was a memorable concert for jazz fans coming to hear the 90-year old icon of the jazz world and his big band from New York. The concert was a benefit for The Lionel and Gladys Hampton Jazz History Education Foundation and its continuing efforts to involve young people in the jazz experience. The LH band played many old favorites such as "Hamp's Boogie Woogie," "Flyin' Home" and "Night in Tunisia," featuring trumpeter Tony Barrero. Among the many highlights on the CD are Hamp playing "Where or When" and "Hallelujah Again" as well as his vocal on "Brand New Baby." When you hear Lionel Hampton singing "Ifs a Wonderful World" you can feel the love, emotion and caring Hamp has put into his 70-years of providing music to all of us. As one critic put it, "This is a wonderful world of jazz because Lionel Hampton is a large part of it." Singer Ernie Andrews backed by The Gerald Wiggins Trio, featuring tenor sax legend Teddy Edwards, sang songs including "It Must Have Been Something I Dreamed Last Night," "Dont Touch Me" (composed by Teddy Edwards) and with his inimitable take on "Fire & Rain" you can hear why he is considered one of the best jazz and blues singers around today. Legendary Harry "Sweets* Edison, the 86-year old trumpet player, who was with Count Basic for more than 30 years, was in top form backed by The Gerald Wiggins Trio. He gave his interpretations of "So Wonderful" and "I Wish I Knew." Edison is acknowledged to be one of the greatest jazz instrumentalists of all time. The Gerald Wiggins Trio, with Paul Humphrey on drums and Andy Simpkins on bass, has been together for many, many years. Gerald Wiggins, himself, has held a lofty position in jazz for almost 60 years. Hearing them playing "Land of Dreams" you can well see why this splendid group is so highly valued. (Sadly, Andy Simpkins and Harry "Sweets" Edison passed away one year after this recording was made. Steve Alien died in the year 2001.) This is a CD all jazz aficionados will want to include in their special collections.
2737 Edwin Place. Los Anpeles. FA 90046 U.S.A.
INTRODUCTION
LIONEL HAMPTON & HIS BIG BAND "LIVE" at the JOHN ANSON FORD AMPHITHEATER
FEATURING: ERNIE ANDREWS, THE GERALD WIGGINS TRIO, HARRY "SWEETS" EDISON & TEDDY EDWARDS.
ON APRIL 19, 2002 LIONEL HAMPTON TURN 94 YEARS OLD, HE ONLY PERFORMS ONCE OR TWICE A YEAR. THIS TWO-DISK CD RECORDING ON OCTOBER 8, 1998 WAS THE LAST RECORDING OF THIS JAZZ ICON, WHO HAS GIVEN SO MUCH TO THE WORLD OF JAZZ FOR MORE THEN 70 YEARS.
This was a labor of love for me to bring Mr. Hampton and his big band from New York to Hollywood, California. Lionel Hampton arrived two days before the show to do radio interviews, I asked him how he felt and he said, "Lloyd, I feel great, when can we get some soul food?" Next, it was time to pick up the band. When I got to the airport, the first one off the plane was Tony Barrero. He give me a big hug and said "Lloyd, we've come to play," As you listen to this CD you will see that's exactly what they did.
This band is one of the greatest. The drummer Wally Gator playing in the vein of a Sonny Payne to keep that band moving along. With the trumpet section, Tony Barrero is up there with those high notes along in the traditional Cat Anderson and Jim Rolondi with his sweet horn, hitting those fast notes and laying under Tony is something. I am impressed and have always been impressed with Jerry Weldon, who has that driving force which reminds me of a young Illinois Jacquet, and then of course there's Cleve Guyten who's the musical director of the band. His flute playing is wonderful and soul searching, as an alto sax man he is one of the best. Charles Stevens who has been with the band the longest keeps that trombone section popping. There is Lance Bryant another great tenor man. Marshall Mc Donald plays the clarinet and the alto sax, but when you hear that clarinet you will know what I am talking about.
Prior to the concert, there was a cocktail party to celebrate Lionel's 90th year of life. Friends and associates were present at the celebration and the concert. Lionel's dearest friend Benny Carter, Lynn Wiggins, David Abell and Mrs. Ray Brown, along with a whole list of other prominent jazz artist and fans from the Los Angeles area came from all over to toast Lionel Hampton.
There was a calm excitement prior to the concert on this autumn evening in Los Angeles. Chuck Niles announced the Gerald Wiggins Trio. I knew then what it was; Mr. Wiggins open with "Lover man" and "The Land of Dreams". The Trio was great, and of course there is Harry "Sweets" Edison, what can one say other then the word 'Sweets". Ernie Andrews did a tribute to Mr. Hampton by singing "Everybody's Fool." It was a great tribute; the song had soul and feeling. He is truly, a storyteller who happens to be one of the world's greatest singers. Mr. Hampton was also in top form when you hear " Wonderful World" you feel that this is a wonderful world for us. Being present at a Lionel Hampton concert had made it a Wonderful World and event for all who had the privilege to attend this concert. Being the last recording of one of the great jazz icon of the jazz world.
Steve Allen spoke to me before the show and said, "Sometimes it just clicks when it's the right time and you can't plan it", he was right this was the right time. Listen to this CD and I am sure you will agree with me, this was the right time.
Lloyd Rucker
CD REVIEWS
Lionel Hampton & his Big Band "LIVE" at the John
Anson Ford Amphitheatre
With Ernie Andrews, Gerald Wiggins Trio, Harry "Sweets
Edison, and Teddy Edwards
Hampton's the Host of This Propulsive Party
By Howard Reich
LIONEL HAMPTON & HIS BIG BAND
"Live at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre"
Phillips Records
Vibes virtuoso and bandleader Lionel Hampton doesn't perform much anymore, so anyone who values his rhythmically propulsive approach to music-making will welcome the sheer energy and drive of the performance captured here.
Recorded live in Los Angeles in 1998, when Hamp was a mere 90 years old, the two-CD set vividly documents the excitement of the occasion. You can hear itin the hard-charging ensemble playing on "Hallelujah Again." The nimble reed and brass solos on "Brand New Baby," the whinnying blues riffs on "Soul Serenade" and the lush colors of "A Night in Tunisia." Even amid this orgy of orchestra color, however, Hamp's vibes playing stands out, as in his whimsical solos on "Hamp's Boogie Woogie."
Granted, Hampton at 90 wasn't producing as much sound and fury as in earlier days, yet his elegant melodicism and piquant chord choices prove difficult to resist. And his soft and tender vocals on "What a Wonderful World" hardly could be more poignant. This set (which opens with performances by Ernie Andrews, Gerald Wiggins and the late Harry "Sweetd" Edison) likely will stand as Hamp's last recording. As such, it's an indispensable CD.
Los Angeles Times . Calendar . Sunday, July 7, 2002
Pick of the week
Jazz
Lionel Hampton
"Lionel Hampton & His Big Band Live at the John Anson Ford," Phillip Records
Lionel Hampton has a permanent place in the annals of American culture for two reasons. Under the auspices of Benny Goodman and impresario John Hammond, he and pianist Teddy Wilson broke the musical color barrier back in the '30s: Blacks hadn't performed onstage with whites until Hampton and Wilson appeared with Goodman. Musically, of course, Hampton is the father of the jazz vibraphone, and all the great players who have come since owe him a Mount Everest-size debt.
In a way, this new double-disc set should be subtitled "Bittersweet." Several participants in the jubilant 1998 show have gone to the great bandstand in the sky - trumpeter Harry "Sweets" Edison, bassist Andy Simpkins and emcee Steve Allen.
The event was a benefit concert and tribute to Hampton, now 93 and still among us, although this was one of his last public appearances. No one should reasonably expect an octogenarian to have the kind of unabandoned energy that Hampton possessed with Goodman or with his own ritous big band later, but Hampton comports himself amazingly well here on his cuts. The pure-swinging "Halleluiah Again" is a delight, and Hampton's tender, sonorou lyricism is abundabt on the lovely "When I Fall In Love." Of course, no Hampton show would be complete without a rollicking, jam-session-style "Hamp's Boogie Woogie," and the vibist files almost as if the decades had never passed.
But Hampton's isn't the only memorable performanc here by a long shot. There is fine, sensitive work from other musical elders, including Edison, pianist Gerald Wiggins and singer Ernis Andrews.
(If you have trouble finding it in the stores, try Phillip Records directly at 11288 Ventura Blvd., Suite 610, Studio City, CA 91604, (818) 985-3883 or go online at www.cdbaby.com/lionelhampton.)
Grade: A
By Steve Eddy
Friday June 14, 2002
The Orange County Register
Live at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre
Lionel Hampton & His Big Band
Album Title Live at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre
Date of release 2002
Genre Jazz
Review: This two-CD set documenting a 1998 benefit concert is a treat.
The first set features the underappreciated pianist Gerry Wiggins with bassist Andy Simpkins in one of his last recorded performances and drummer Paul Humphrey in a brief but dazzling set kicking off woth a spunky arrangement of "Lover." Trumpeter Harry "Sweets" Edison who adds humorous spoken introductions to "I Wish I Knew' and "There will never Be Another You." He sounds a bit fragile at timeson his horn, but his spirit carries him through what was likely his final recording prior to his death. Singer Ernie Andrews and tenor saxophonist Teddy Edwards join the Wiggins Trio for the remainder of the first set of which the ballad "Everybody's Somebody's Fool" (written by Lionel Hampton) is the highlight. Steve Allen introduces Hampton at the start of the second set by joking about bandleader's slow entrance onto the stage (no doubt due to his earlier stroke.) At the age of 89 at the time of the concert and still recuperating from his illness, the vibraphonist obviously doesn't play with the bandmembers to swing hard throughout their set. In addition to the expected hits like "Hamp's Boogie Woogie" and "Flying Home," there's a driving take of "A Night in Tunisia" and a richly textured chart of "Where or When." The sign-off features Hampton's reflective vocal on Louis Armstrong's pop hit of the 1960s, "What a Wonderful World." It's obvious that Lionel Hampton, who could have easily quit the road decades earlier due to his success as a bandleader, clearly still enjoys leading a band. - Ken Dryden
LA JAZZ Scene
Lionel Hampton & His Big Band
Live at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre with Ernie Andrews, Gerald Wiggins Trio, Harry "Sweets" Edison. (Philip Records)
A memorable concert took place in Los Angeles on the evening of October 18, 1998. The John Anson Ford Amphitheatre was crowded with excited fans enjoying 90 year old Lionel Hampton, warning the night air with his music. The entire event is preserved on this pair of compact discs produced by Lloyd Records for Phillip Records.
This program was a benefit for the Lionel and Gladys Hampton Jazz History Educational Foundations continuing efforts to involve young people in the jazz experience.
The first half, introduced by L.A.'s favorite jazz radio personality, Chuck Niles. Featured the popular Gerald Wiggins Trio. With Paul Humphrey at the drums and Andy Simpkins on bass, they have for decades, been among the most sought after jazz trios in the country Pianist Wiggins, leading the way with his firm touch, all-around musicianship, and intuitive sense of swing, sets the pace for the evening with a sparkling version of "Lover."
When Harry "Sweets" Edison joined the Trio, the program advanced toward the lilting sounds of the Big Band years. "Sweets" unique tone, a mainstay in the early Count Basie band, is one of jazz's recognizable sounds. His lovely muted Gershwin tribute, "S Wonderful," followed by "I Wish I Knew (Someone to Love Me)" proved that, at 86, he still possessed a strong lip and as agile mind.
Ironically, Andy Simpkins and "Sweets" Edison both died about a month apart approximately one year after this event.
The concerts warm-up first act boiled to a conclusion, when Ernie Andrews and saxophonist Teddy Edwards joined the Gerald Wiggins Trio. While still a teenager, Andrews records, quickly established him as an innovative vocal stylist with a penchant for romantic ballads and the blues. Listening to this performance half a century later you will realize that his distinctive timbre, wide range and stage presence were still very evident.
The concert concluded with Hamp's plaintive vocal on "What a Wonderful World." The audiences sustained applause reflected their desire for an encore. Reluctant to leave the amphitheater, many remained in their seats chatting amiably about the music they had just heard.
The release of this CD set underscores the importance of the roles played by seminal artist, and the great influence they still have on present and future generations of jazz players.
As you will discover, there is much more to enjoy on this two-CD set than can possibly be included within the space allotted for this review.
Two - CD set @ 29.95 + P&H from: www.cdbaby.com (Phone 800-448-6369 or from: Phillips Records, 11288 Ventura Blvd. #610 Studio City, CA 91604.
Tax deductible contributions can be sent to the Lionel and Gladys Hampton Jazz History Educational Foundation 11288 Ventura Blvd. #610 Studio City, CA 91604.
-Floyd Levin
BIOGRAPHY
Lionel Hampton, is an icon in the world of J.V7, the reigning King of the Vibraphone for over 70 years. 11 h.is bwn said, Lionel Hampton took up the vibraphone and much as Coleman Hawkins did with the tenor saxophone, almost single-handedly transformed it from .1 novelty instrument... into a first-class jazz instrument. He made the vibes completely his own, developing his own style and setting the bench- mark for everyone who would come later. He began his musical career as a drummer. Bom in Birmingham, Alabama on April 20,1908. As a young man Lionel and his family moved to Kenosha, Wisconsin where he studied music with the Dominican Sisters at Holy Rosary Academy. His idols were Louis Armstrong and a drummer named Jimmy Bertrand, who tossed his sticks in the air as lights blinked away from inside his bass drum. In 1930, Hampton finally met Louis Armstrong. Playing a backup band for Satchmo at a Los Angeles nightclub, Hamp so impressed Armstrong that lie was invited to a recording session. Armstrong spotted a set of vibes in the studio and asked Hamp if he knew how to play them. Never one to refuse a challenge, Lionel, who knew keyboards well, picked up the mallets. The first tune they cut together was MEMORIES OF YOU, just written by Eubie Blake. Hampton was the first to record jazz on the instrument and it became a hit- John Hammoncf the great jazz impresario, heard the record and began tout- ing Lionel's vibes work to Benny Goodman. I-Iammond flew Benny out to L.A. to hear Hampton at the Paradise Club in August, 1936. Goodman at that time had a trio featuring Teddy Wilson on piano and Gene Krupa on drums. Goodman was won over by Hamp s talent, and the trio became The Benny Goodman Quartet. The foursome made history not only with the brilliant music they produced, but because they were the first racial- ly integrated group of jazz musicians in the country. Their biggest hit'; included MOONGLOW, DINAH, and VIBRAPHONE BLUES, and Hamp spent the next four years with Goodman as the quartet became the hottest jazz group in the world. In the early '40s, Hamp left Benny to form his own big band after the release of two wildly successful RCA singles under his own name: SUNNY SIDE ()!-'HIE STREET, on which he sang as well as played vibes, and CENTRAL AVENUE BREAKDOWN, playing piano with two fingers, using them like vibes mallets. His first big band included such sidemen as Dexter Gordon and Illinois Jacquet and he busted the charts with his recording of FLYIN' HOME in D-P and HAMP'S BOOGIE WOOGIE in 1943. (FLYIN'HOME was inaugurated into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1996.) The list of sidemen who got their start with Hampton includes Quincy Jones, Wes Montgomery, dark Terrv, Cat Andersen, Ernie Royal, Joe Newman, Charlie Mingus, Fats Navarro, Ai Gray, Art Fanner, plus singers Dinah Washington (who was discovered and named by Hamp), Joe Williams, Betty (BeBop) Carter, and the great Aretha I-ranklin. An accomplished composer, Hampton's original ballad MIDNIGHT SUN, written with Johnny Mercer and Sonny Burke, has become an American jazz and popular classic- His major symphonic works, THE KING DAVID SUI IE
and Blues Suite have been performed by leading symphonic orchestra throughout the world.
In the 1959s, President Eisenhower asked him to serve as s goodwill ambasador for the United States, and Mr. Hamptons band made many tours to Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Far East generating a huge international following.
He established two record labels, Glad-Hamp Records with his wife Gladys and Whos, Who in Jazz as his own publishing company. He founded the Lionel Hampton Development Corporation to build low income housing in the inner city.
In 1985, the University of Idaho named it's jazz festival for him and in 1987 the universitys music school was named the Lionel Hampton School of Music. In 1991, President Bush appointed him to the Board of the Kennedy Center. Mr. Hampton received the Kennedy Center Honor in 1992 and in 1996 President Clinton awarded him the National Medal of the Arts in 1998 he and Lloyd Rucker founded the Lionel and Gladys Hampton Jazz History Education Foundation to go into the middle schools and high schools to teach the history of jazz. He has been awarded seventeen honorary doctorates here and abroad, as well as the Gold Medal of Paris and this Papal Medal. A few years ago he was hit with a stroke, but to this day he continues to tour with his big band.
Since the 1950s, Hamp has been active in politics, campaigning on the local and national level, including for George W's grandfather, President Bush. Twice he served as a Republican delegate for presidential election. He has been an honored guest at the White House dozens of times.
Lionel Hampton and His Big Band Live at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre (2-CD set)
Lionel Hampton and guest
Phillip Records
Lionel Hampton, the legendary vibraphonist, band leader and one of the last surviving masters of the Swing Era, celebrates his 90th birthday on this 1998 recording by singing the blues and sitting in for light soloing duties on vibes with his still rocking, touring big band.
Hamp doesn't burn down the hall with fiery mallet work as he did so brilliantly for Benny Goodmans orchestra and classic chamber jazz groups, or for many decades with his own band, which he has constantly rejuvenated by recruiting young talanted players.
Nonetheless, the old, forever irrrepressible maestro is very much a presence at this concert. The event also served as a benefit for the Lionel and Gladys Hampton Jazz History Education Foundation a nonprofit group dedicated to getting young people involved in jazz.
Hamp who turns 94 April 20, is an inspiring role model for young or old. Despite two strokes, he still sits in on occasion with his band, riffing on "Flying High" or "Hamp's Boogie Woogie."
Besides Hampton's Big Band, the birthday celebration features two tracks by a trio led by pianist Gerald Wiggins, three selections by veteran swing trumpeter Harry "Sweets" Edison and a rousing mini-set featuring blues and ballad singer Ernie Andrews.
Backed by the Wiggins Trio and tenor saxophonist Teddy Edwards. Andrews is in top form. The best track among the 19 on the 2-CD set is his stomping, soulful version of James Taylors "Fire and Rain." Andrews fills "Fire and Rain" with real fire and brimstone, re-tailoring the Taylor song into a mix of gospel passion, blues funk and Count Basie cooker.
Sadly, since this recently released material was recorded in concert in October 1998, three of the celebrations participants have died. Edison and Andy Simpkins bassist in the Wiggins Trio, died in 1999. Comedian Steve Allen, who introduces the Hampton Orchestra, died last year. The release is available at www.cdbaby.com or at 800 - 448- 6369.
-Owen McNally
MAJOR WORKS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
OF LIONEL HAMPTON
Performed at every Presidential Inaugural Ball since President Truman, except Kennedy's and Johnson's Made Goodwill Ambassador by President Nixon Made Goodwill Ambassador to the United Nations by Jean Kirkpatrick Made Honoary Member of Hadassah
1954 RECIVED ISRAEL'S STSTHOOD AWARD
1957 NAMED GOODWILL AMBASSADOR BY PRESIDENT EISENHOWER
1966 PRESENTED THE GEORGE FREDERICK HANDEL MEDAL, NEW YORK CITY'S
(highest cultural award, by Major John Lindsey)
1968 RECEIVED PAPAL MEDAL FROM POPE PAUL 1
1974 RECEIVED HONORARY DOCTORATE OF FINE ARTS - PEPPERDINE
UNIVERSITY
1975 RECEIVED HONORARY DOCTORATE OF MUSIC - XAVIER UNIVERSITY
OF LOUISIANA
1976 RECEIVED HONORARY DOCTORATE OF HUMANITIES - THE DANIEL HALE
WILLIAMS UNIVERSITY
1978 LIONEL HAMPTON DAY DECLARED BY CITY OF NEW YORK. RECEIVED NEW
YORK CITY'S HIGHEST CITIZENSHIP AWARD, THE BRONZE MEDALLION.
1979 RECEIVED HONORARY DOCTORATE OF MUSIC - HOWARD UNIVERSITY
1981 RECEIVED HONORARY DOCTORATE OP HUMANITIES - GLASSBORO STATE
COLLEGE
1981 RECEIVED THE MONARCH I AWARD
1982 GRANTED A 'STAR' IN THE WALK OF FAME IN HOLLYWOOD
1983 RECEIVED HONORARY DOCTORATE OF HUMANE LETTERS - STATE
UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK
1983 RECEIVED THE INTERNATIONAL FILM AND TV FESTIVAL OF NEW YORK CITY
AWARD
1984 RECEIVED HONORARY DOCTORATE OF MU,SIC - UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN
CALIFORNIA
p-
1984 GIVEN THE JAZZ HALL OF FAME AWARD BY THE INSTITUTE OF JAZZ STUDIES
FROM RUTGERS STATE UNIVERSITY 1985 UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO JAZZ FESTIVAL RENAMED THE LIONEL
HAMPTON/CHEVRON JAZZ FESTIVAL- THE FIRST JAZZ FESTIVAL EVER NAMED
AFTER A JAZZ MUSICIAN; THE FIRST JAZZ FESTIVAL EVER NAMED AFTER AN
AFRICAN AMERICAN 1986 RECEIVED THE -ONE OF A KIND- AWARD IN THE WORLD OF JAZZ FROM
BROADCAST MUSIC. INC. 1986 BUST OF LIONEL HAMPTON PLACED ON THE NICE. FRANCE JAZZ FESTIVAL
GROUNDS, GIVEN IN HONOR BY THE CITY OF NICE-1987 UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO SCHOOL OF MUSIC NAMED THE LIONEL HAMPTON
SCHOOL OF MUSIC. THE FIRST SCHOOL OF MUSIC EVER NAME A JAZZ
MUSICIAN: THE FIRST SCHOOL OF MUSIC EVER NAMED AFTER AN AFRICAN
AMERICAN. 1987 RECEIVED THE ROY WILKINS MEMORIAL AWARD FROM THE NAACP 1987 RECEIVED AN HONORARY DOCTORATE OF HUMANITIES - UNIVERSITY OF
IDAHO 1987 RECEIVED HONORARY DOCTORATE OF MUSIC - UNIVERSITY OF LIEGE (
BELGIUM) 1988 PRESENTED WITH THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF JAZZ EDUCATORS HALL
OF FAME AWARD 1992 RECEIVED KENNEDY CENTER HONORS AWARD 1993 AWARD FOR DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT IN THE ARTS, 3RD STREET
MUSIC SCHOOL SETTLEMENT ( NEW YORK CITY) 1993 AWARD HONORARY DOCTORATE - UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EASTERN
SHORE 1993 NAMED THE HONORARY CHAIRMAN OF NEW YORK MAYOR RUDY GlULIANfS
INAUGURAL 1995 AWARD HONORARY DOCTORATE - NEW ENGLAND CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC 1995 NAME HONORARY COMMISSIONER OF CIVIL RIGHTS BY NEW YORK
GOVERNOR GEORGE PATAKI 1995 NAMED HONORARY COMMISSIONER OF POLICE BY NEW YORK MAYOR RUDY
GIULIANI
For someone of Steve Allen's versatility and staggering capacity for work, jazz occupies a small yet significant portion of his biography. Yet despite his crowded agenda, Allen can still spin out facile, competent, bop-and-cocktail-flavored piano in fast jazz company - nothing particularly original but always pleasurable to hear. He started to play the piano while a child - his parents were traveling vaudeville performers- but the keyboard soon had to take a backseat to his media career, first on radio and then on television. Best-known as a comedian and the first host of the American TV institution, the Tonight Show (1954 - 57). Allen frequently played piano and sang on his shows and used them as a forum to present guests from the jazz world. He also played the lead role in the film The Benny Goodman Story in 1955, produced the TV series Jazz Scene USA in 1962, and narrated a history of jazz on records The Jazz Story (Coral). Allen recorded frequently for Coral, Dot, Roulette, EmArcy, and Decca during the peak of his TV fame and as late as 1992, taped an enjoyable mainstream set for Concord Jazz, Plays Jazz Tonight. In addition to some 43 books (and counting). Allen claims to have written (as of 1994) more than 4700 songs of which only a bare handful - "This Could Be The Start of Something (Big)." "Gravy Waltz," "Impossible" - have stked claims in the repertoire. Ultimately Allen's most valuable contribution to jazz has been as a cheerleader in the mass media.
Chuck Niles
Master of Ceremonies
KLON_FM disc jockey Chuck Niles, "the voice of jazz" and a Hollywood Walk of Famer, will ring in his 50th year in radio at New Year's Jazz at Indian Wells, where he'll serve as Master of Ceremonies for the millennium festivities. He is truly a seminal figure in the jazz world.
Ernie Andrews
Born Dec 25, 1927 in Philadelphia, PA
Vocals
Biography
Ernie Andrews has managed to be both popular and underrated throughout his lengthy career. After his family moved to Los Angeles, he sang in a church choir, and while still attending high school had a few hits for the G&G label. Billy Eckstine and Al Hibbler were early influences and after reaching maturity Andrews was somewhat in the shadow of Joe Williams (who has a similar style.) Andrews recorded for Aladdin, Columbia, and London in the late '40s. He spent six years singing with the Harry James Orchestra, and cut a couple of big band dates for GNP/Crescendo during 1958-1959. Despite his unchanging style, Andrews was mostly in obscurity during the 1960s and '70s, just making a couple of albums for Dot during 1965-1966. A 1980 Discovery date found him in excellent form and in the '80s, Superband, Jay McShann, and with the Harper Brothers, in addition to making a few sets in the 1990s for MUSE and later High Note He is also prominent in the documentary Blues for Central Avenue.
Harry "Sweets" Edison
Born: Oct 10, 1915 in Columbus, OH
Died: Jul 27, 1999
AMG Biography
Harry "Sweets" Edison got the most milage out of a single note, like his former boss Count Basie. Edison, immediately recognizable within a note or two, long used repetitionand simplicity to his advantage while always swinging. He played in local bands in Columbus and then in 1933 joined the Jeter-Pillars Orchestra. After a couple years in St. Louis, Edison moved to New York where he joined Lucky Millinder and then in June 1938 Count Basie, remaining with that classic orchestra until it broke up in 1950. During that period he was featured on many records, appeared in the 1944 short Jammin' the Blues and gained his nickname "Sweets" (due to his tone) from Lester Young. In the 1950's Edison toured with Jazz at the Philharminic, settled in Los Angeles and was well-featured both as a studio musician (most noticeably on Frank Sinatra records) and on jazz dates. He had several reunions with Count Basie in the 1960s and by the '70s was often teamed with Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis; Edison also recorded an excellent duet album for Pablo with Oscar Peterson. One of the few swing trumpeters to be influenced by Dizzy Gillespie, Sweets led sessions through the years for Pacific Jazz, Verve, Roulette, Riverside, Vee-Jay, Liberty, Sue, Black & Blue, Pablo, Storyville and Candid among others. Although his playing faded during the 1980s and '90s Edison could still say more with one note than nearly anyone; he died July 27, 1999 at the age of 83.
Gerald Wiggins
Occupying a lofty position in jazz for almost 60 years, Gerald Wiggins is known for his rich harmonic improvisations, swinging ability and mischievous wit, as exhibited in his performances. He has shared the stage with countless diverse artist, including Louis Armstrong, Benny Carter, Lena Horne, Nat "King" Cole, Joe Williams, Marily Monroe, Helen Hume and Wynton Marsalis. He has emerged throughtout his career as a leader of his own groups, a fvored accompanist of vocalists, and recipient of many honors including being honored by the L.A. Jazz Society in 1988, and by the celebration of :Gerald Wiggins Day in L.A." on September 11, 1988.
Transplant to Los Angeles from Ne w York, Wig toured with Les Hite, Louis Armstrong and Benny Carter, and after service in the Army, became infused in the movie and recording studios, and was popular in the nightclub scene. Recalling his club dates on historic L.A. jazz mecca, Central Avenue, particularly an extensive engagement in the Turban Room adjoining the Dunbar Hotel, a Wiggins interview, "Central Avenue Sounds" is documented in a 3.5 hour tape and 170-page volume in the UCLA Library Oral History Program. This project which includes some 20 interviewa has resulted in a highly regarded text edited by Dr. Steven Isoardi and published by the University of Calfornia Press. Wiggins also has prominent mention in Paul de Barros' excellent account of Seattle jazz, "Jackson Street After Hours."
Wig's library of recordings date back to the 1942 Les Hite release of "Jersey Bounce" to more recent works with Mary Stallings, Richard Simon, Frank Capp's Juggernaut, and his own "Soulidarity" on Concord Jazz with bassist Amy Simpkins and drummer Paul Humphrey.
Gerald Wiggins remains a much-respected jazz treasure. Known for his swing originality and elegance, as he exhibits class and total control over the keyboard.
Teddy Edwards
AKA real nameL Theodore Marcus Edwards
Born: Apr 26, 1924 in Jackson, MS
Sax Tenor
Biography
Teddy Edwards was with Dexter Gordon and Wardell Gray the top young tenor of the late '40s. Unlike the other two he chose to remain in Los Angeles and has been underrated through the years but even in his early 70s, Edwards remains in prime form. Early on he toured with Ernie Fields' Orcheztra, moving to L.A. in 1945 to work with Roy Milton as an altoist. Edwards switched to tenor when he joined Howard McGhee's band and was featured in many jam sessions during the era, recording "The Duel" with Dexter Gordon in 1947. A natural-born leader, edwards did work briefly with Max Roach and Clifford Brown (1954), Benny Carter (1955) and Benny Goodman (1964). He recorded in the 1980s with Milt Jackson and Jimmy Smith. But it is his own records for Onyx (1947-1948), Pacific Jazz Contemporary (1960-62), Prestige, Xanadu, MuseSteepleChase, Timeless and Antilles that best show off his playing and writing; "Sunset Eyes" is Edwards' best-known original.
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CD Producer - Mgr..jazz singer Yve Evans
author: Prince MooreThis was Lionel Hamptons 90th Birthday and it was his last recording with his big band in Los Angeles. The band was in fine form and Lionel was right there on the vibes and singing. I give this concert and this CD 5 stars because I could not give it 10 stars. It was a great night.
NOTHING LESS THAN OUTSTANDING OUTSTANDING!!
author: WAYNEThis was Lionel Hamptons last recording. I was so sad that I missed the show due to bad health, but this CD is just like being there. From the start to the end..the bands, the players the singer,,,, and that is just the first CD. CD number two is all LIONEL HAMPTON AND HIS NEW YORK BIG BAND. OUTSTANDING!, IS ALL I CAN SAY.
It takes us to sublime places. Close your eyes, clear your mind and welcome to wonderland. I didn't know how I felt about this two disc CD, didn't know what to say that would impart to others how excellent it is. I asked my wife what she thought of it and I got what I was searching for. "It makes you want to be there!" Very few pieces of recorded music move us to that level. It is so emotionally powerful that our body can feel the heart throb of the music, the power of love in the audience. I have a comparatively small, but esoteric, recording collection. After about three listens I either dispose of a recording as having run its course of interest or I purchase a duplicate because I have learned that I wear my small collection out and need a back up. Lionel Hampton & his Big Band Live is a keeper with a back up. Buy this CD, turn it up loud and welcome to Wonderland.
This is a great CD and a great homage for Hamp
author: Hans Bebophttp://people.a2000.nl/ahbone/Hampton.html