Jabbo Smith facts for kids

Jabbo Smith (born Cladys Smith; December 24, 1908 – January 16, 1991) was an American jazz musician. He was famous for his amazing trumpet playing.

Early Life and Music Journey

Jabbo Smith was born in Pembroke, Georgia, United States. When he was six years old, he went to the Jenkins Orphanage in Charleston, South Carolina. There, he learned to play the trumpet and trombone. By the time he was 10, he was already touring with the Jenkins Band!

At 16, Jabbo left the orphanage to become a professional musician. He first played in bands in Philadelphia and Atlantic City, New Jersey. Then, from about 1925 to 1928, he moved to Manhattan, New York City. This is where he made his first well-known recordings.

Broadway and Chicago

From February to May 1928, Jabbo played in a Broadway musical called Keep Shufflin'. He performed alongside famous musicians like Fats Waller and James P. Johnson. The show ran for 104 performances.

Later in 1928, Jabbo toured with James P. Johnson's Orchestra. Their show ended in Chicago, Illinois, and Jabbo decided to stay there for a few years.

Famous Recordings

In 1929, Jabbo Smith made 20 recordings for Brunswick Records. These are his most famous works. People even said he was a rival to the legendary Louis Armstrong! However, most of these records did not sell very well. Because of this, Brunswick Records did not continue his contract.

In March 1935, Jabbo recorded again in Chicago. He joined a session with a group called Charles LaVere & His Chicagoans. They even sang a song together called "Boogaboo Blues."

Later Years and Comeback

In the 1930s, Jabbo Smith moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This became his main home for many years. He would sometimes return to New York. In Milwaukee, he worked with saxophonist Bill Johnson.

Later, Jabbo played music part-time. He also worked a regular job at a car rental company in Milwaukee. He was not as famous during this time.

Jabbo Smith made a big comeback in the late 1960s. He successfully played with bands and shows in New York, New Orleans, Louisiana, London, and France. He continued performing through the 1970s and into the 1980s.

In 1982, Jabbo performed concerts in France, Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands with the Hot Antic Jazz Band. These live performances were recorded. The live album, Jabbo Smith and the Hot Antic Jazz Band: European Concerts, was later released.

Jabbo Smith passed away in New York City in January 1991. He was 82 years old.