Dicky Wells facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Dicky Wells
Dicky Wells Photo:William P. Gottlieb
Background information
Birth name	William Wells
Born	(1907-06-10)June 10, 1907 Centerville, Tennessee, U.S.
Died	November 12, 1985(1985-11-12) (aged 78) New York City
Genres	Jazz
Occupation(s)	Musician
Instruments	Trombone
Associated acts	Count Basie

William Wells (born June 10, 1907 – died November 12, 1985) was a famous American jazz musician. He was known by his stage name, Dicky Wells (sometimes spelled Dickie Wells). He played the trombone, an instrument that makes music with a slide. Dicky Wells was known for his unique and expressive trombone playing style.

Dicky Wells: A Jazz Trombone Star

Dicky Wells was born on June 10, 1907, in Centerville, Tennessee. His brother, Henry Wells, was also a trombonist. In 1926, Dicky moved to New York City. There, he joined the Lloyd Scott band and began his amazing music career.

Playing with Famous Bands

Dicky Wells played with many famous jazz musicians and bands. He was a key member of Count Basie's band for many years. He played with them from 1938 to 1945, and again from 1947 to 1950. He also performed with other jazz legends like Fletcher Henderson, Benny Carter, Teddy Hill, and Ray Charles.

Later Years and Comeback

In the mid-1960s, Dicky Wells toured a lot. He performed in many places. Later, he faced some health challenges, which led him to slow down his music work. However, in 1973, he published his autobiography. This book helped him get back into playing music.

Even after a difficult incident that affected his memory, Dicky Wells recovered. He kept performing his music. He often played at the West End jazz club in New York City. He frequently performed with a band called The Countsmen. This band was led by Earle Warren, who was also a musician from the Count Basie band. Dicky Wells was known for a special "pepper pot" mute that he made himself.

His Final Years

Dicky Wells passed away on November 12, 1985, in New York City. He died from cancer. After his death, his family gave his trombone to the Rutgers University Institute of Jazz Studies. This helped preserve his musical legacy.

Recordings and Albums

Dicky Wells recorded many albums throughout his career. He released albums as a band leader, where he was the main musician. He also played as a sideman, meaning he played with other artists on their albums.

Albums as a Leader

• Bones for the King (1958)
• Trombone Four-in-Hand (1959)
• Chatter Jazz with Rex Stewart (1959)
• Heavy Duty! (1965)
• Dicky Wells in Paris 1937 (1968)
• Lonesome Road (1981)

Playing with Other Musicians

Dicky Wells played on many albums with other famous jazz artists. He recorded with Count Basie, Buck Clayton, and Jimmy Rushing. He also played with musicians like Dizzy Gillespie and John Lee Hooker. His trombone playing added a special touch to many classic jazz recordings.

Images for kids

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  Dicky Wells (left) and brother Henry Wells in January 1947

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  Dicky Wells (left) and brother Henry Wells at Eddie Condon's in New York City