Discover the greatest stories from jazz history
The best stories and anecdotes from more than 100 years of jazz
When Phil Woods Handed His Saxophone to Charlie Parker (video interview)
Every generation of jazz musicians grows up listening to the masters who came before them. But very few ever find themselves … Read more
“He Tapped Me On The Shoulder…” Wayne Shorter Meets Lester Young (Video interview)
Jazz history is often told through recordings and concerts. But sometimes the most revealing stories about musicians come from small, unexpected … Read more
Fine and Mellow: Rare Video of Billie Holiday’s Extraordinary 1957 CBS TV Special
In 1957, American television captured one of the most remarkable gatherings of jazz musicians ever assembled. Together, led by Billie Holiday, … Read more
“Frank, Do Me a Favour…” — The Don Rickles Prank That Left Frank Sinatra Speechless
“Frank, do me a favour — I’m trying to impress this girl.” That was the request comedian Don Rickles once made … Read more
Rare Footage of The 1959 Timex All-Star Jazz Show (Video)
In the late 1950s, American television rarely gave jazz musicians the space to simply play. Variety shows might feature a short … Read more
John Coltrane in Düsseldorf, 1960: Rare Television Footage from a Pivotal Year
By 1960, John Coltrane had already established himself as one of the most powerful improvisers in modern jazz. Yet the direction … Read more
Watch Cannonball Adderley Explain the Success of “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy” to Dick Clark
Few jazz recordings from the 1960s crossed into the wider popular consciousness the way Mercy, Mercy, Mercy did. Released in 1966 … Read more
Video: Reunited after 30 years – Louis Armstrong & Duke Ellington Share a Stage in 1961
Few moments in jazz feel as symbolic as seeing Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington performing together. That’s just what we’ve gort … Read more
Watch: The Airline Which Kicked Ella Fitzgerald Off A Flight
In the summer of 1954, Ella Fitzgerald was at the height of her powers. She had already become one of the … Read more
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