Jimmy Powell (musician) facts for kids

James Theodore Powell (born October 24, 1914 – died February 16, 1994) was an American jazz musician. He was known for playing the alto saxophone. He played with many famous jazz artists during his career.

Who Was James Powell?

James Theodore Powell was a talented alto saxophonist. He was an important part of the jazz scene for many years. He played with some of the biggest names in jazz history. His music helped shape the sound of jazz during his time.

Playing with Jazz Legends

James Powell had the chance to play with many legendary musicians. These experiences helped him become a well-known sideman. A sideman is a musician who plays with a band but is not the main leader.

Early Recordings

In the early 1940s, James Powell recorded with the famous singer Billie Holiday. He joined her band for two recording sessions. These sessions included other great musicians like Roy Eldridge on trumpet.

Later, in 1944, he recorded with Billy Eckstine and his Orchestra. This group featured many future jazz stars. The album from this session was released years later in 1960. In 1945, he also recorded with Don Byas and Hal Singer in New York.

Big Band Era

In 1947, Powell joined Illinois Jacquet and his Orchestra. This was a very large band, often called a "big band." It included famous trumpeters like Miles Davis and Fats Navarro. Playing in a big band meant many musicians played together.

In 1956, James Powell became a member of the Dizzy Gillespie Big Band. They recorded a live album called Groovin' High at a famous jazz club called Birdland. He continued to record several albums with Dizzy Gillespie.

His Music: A Discography

James Powell was a sideman on many recordings. This means he played alongside other main artists. Here are some of the albums he helped create:

• 1944: The Master's Touch - with Lester Young (released in 1993)
• 1953: Lucky Thompson & His Lucky Seven - with Lucky Thompson
• 1956: World Statesman - with Dizzy Gillespie
• 1957: Birks' Works - with Dizzy Gillespie
• 1957: Dizzy in Greece - with Dizzy Gillespie
• 1957: Dizzy Gillespie at Newport - with Dizzy Gillespie
• 1958: Out There - with Betty Carter
• 1963: Otis! The Definitive Otis Redding - with Otis Redding (released in 1993)
• 1972: Soul Is... Pretty Purdie - with Bernard Purdie