Jazz Swing Legend #2: Count Basie

Count Basie was an American pianist, orchestra leader, and composer, born in 1904. He was a pioneer of swing music, a genre of jazz that emerged in the 1930s and dominated American popular music until the end of World War II. Basie is widely regarded as one of the greatest band leaders of all time, known for his unique jazz style and innovation.

Basie began his musical career as a pianist in various jazz bands, but it wasn’t until he formed his own orchestra in 1935 that he became a household name. He is known for his bluesy and straightforward playing style and his ability to bring together a group of talented musicians to play jazz, swing, and blues music. Known for his tight ensemble playing, swinging rhythms, and exciting solos, his orchestra became one of the most influential and popular swing bands of its time.

Some of Basie’s best-known records are “One O’Clock Jump”, “April in Paris” and “Jumpin’ at the Woodside”. He is also known for his innovative use of big band arrangements and for his own piano playing as a solo instrument in recordings and performances. In addition to his musical career, Bessie was a humanitarian who used his fame and influence to fight for racial equality and social justice.

Basie’s influence on the music world was enormous, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest orchestra leaders and pianists of all time. Posthumously inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1980, his music continues to be praised and loved by jazz and swing fans.

Photo source : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Count_Basie