From affectionate nicknames to expressions of emotion, Lester Young’s slang creations are almost as iconic as his music – here we take a peek at some of his best…
Lester Young, affectionately known as ‘Prez,’ was more than a pioneering tenor saxophonist – he was a cultural icon whose influence extended far beyond music.
Alongside his light, airy sound and distinctive phrasing, Young introduced a unique linguistic style that helped shape the lexicon of jazz culture. His playful, poetic slang not only reflected his whimsical personality but also became part of the fabric of the jazz world.
From affectionate nicknames to creative expressions of emotion, Lester Young’s language remains as iconic as his music.
“Lady”: A Genderless Term of Affection
One of Lester Young’s most famous linguistic contributions is his use of the word “Lady.”
For Young, “Lady” was a term of respect and endearment, applied to everyone regardless of gender. Billie Holiday became “Lady Day,” Sonny Stitt was “Lady Stitt,” and nearly anyone he admired could earn the prefix.
In fact, there’s a great anecdote of Sonny Stitt on the ‘Jazz at The Philhamonic’ tour bus playing streams of virtuosic saxophone choruses, before Lester Young simply turned to him and said:
“That’s very nice, Lady Stitt. But can you sing me a song?”
This playful, egalitarian use of language fostered camaraderie among musicians and broke down barriers in an era marked by social divides.
The nickname “Lady Day” immortalised not just Billie Holiday’s status as one of jazz’s greatest vocalists but also her deep bond with Young.
Holiday reciprocated with her own nickname for him: “Prez,” short for “President of the tenor saxophone.”
“Prez”: A Title That Stuck
The moniker “Prez” became synonymous with Lester Young.
Coined by Holiday, it was embraced wholeheartedly by Young as a reflection of his leadership and individuality in jazz. The title represented his originality and cool authority, traits that set him apart from his peers.
Today, “Prez” evokes more than just Lester Young—it symbolises understated excellence and charm in the jazz world, a legacy of cool that continues to inspire.
“Tidies” and the Language of Relaxation
Young’s playful approach to language extended to his personal life. He referred to alcoholic drinks as “tidies,” a term that captured his laid-back humour and creativity.
For Young, language wasn’t just functional – it was a reflection of his imaginative personality.
“I Feel a Draft”: A Poet’s Take on Discomfort
The phrase “I feel a draft” was Young’s way of expressing discomfort or unease, whether physical, emotional, or social.
His ability to turn everyday observations into poetic metaphors reflected the same creative genius that defined his music.
“Tell Me a Story”: Young’s Approach to Music
Lester Young often told fellow musicians to “tell me a story” when improvising – a phrase that summed up his approach to jazz.
For Young, music was about more than technical brilliance; it was about emotional connection.
His solos on tracks like “These Foolish Things” and “Polka Dots and Moonbeams” exemplify this philosophy, with lyrical phrasing that feels conversational and deeply human.
This mindset – prioritising narrative and feeling over speed or complexity – continues to influence musicians today, encouraging authenticity as a cornerstone of great jazz.
“My Crown”: The Pork Pie Hat
Young’s iconic pork pie hat was more than a fashion statement—it was a symbol of his individuality. He referred to it as “my crown,” underscoring its importance to his personal and professional identity.
This unique style was immortalised in Charles Mingus’ “Goodbye Pork Pie Hat,” written after Young’s death in 1959. Like his music, the hat became a symbol of cool, effortless originality.
A Language That Influenced Generations
Lester Young’s slang wasn’t just personal – it was part of a larger jazz culture.
While terms like “bread” (money), “cat” (musician), and “cool” (stylish) were staples of the era, Young’s contributions enriched the lexicon, adding personality and flair to the way jazz musicians and fans communicated.
The saxophonist’s playful reimagining of language mirrors his artistry: original, deeply personal, and timeless. His demand for authentic storytelling continues to inspire musicians, while his poetic metaphors remind us of the joy in creative expression.
Just as his saxophone playing defied convention, so too did his words. Lester Young’s slang remains more than quirky jargon – it’s a testament to his boundless creativity and enduring legacy as one of jazz’s most beloved icons.
Looking for more Lester Young? Check out our guide to his essential recordings here.