John Collins (jazz guitarist) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Collins
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| Birth name | John Elbert Collins |
| Born | September 20, 1913 Montgomery, Alabama, U.S. |
| Died | October 4, 2001 (aged 88) Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Genres | Jazz |
| Occupation(s) | Musician |
| Instruments | Guitar |
| Associated acts | Nat King Cole |
John Elbert Collins (born September 20, 1913 – died October 4, 2001) was an amazing American jazz guitarist. He was best known for being a key member of the famous Nat King Cole trio.
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John Collins' Musical Journey
John Collins grew up in Chicago, even though he was born in Alabama. He started playing music at a young age. When he was just fourteen, he performed with his mother, Georgia Gorham, who was a jazz pianist.
As he got older, John played with many famous jazz musicians. In the 1930s, when he was twenty-one, he played with Art Tatum. Later, he performed with stars like Billie Holiday and Lester Young. By the end of the 1930s, he began playing the electric guitar.
During the 1940s, John served in the U.S. Army. After his time in the army, he returned to music. He worked with many other talented musicians, including Erroll Garner and Coleman Hawkins.
Joining the Nat King Cole Trio
A big part of John Collins' career was joining the Nat King Cole trio. He became the guitarist for the trio, replacing Irving Ashby. He stayed with the trio for a long time, until Nat King Cole passed away in 1965.
After his time with Nat King Cole, John continued to play music. He worked with singer Patti Page and then spent several years with Bobby Troup. In the early 1970s, he played with musicians like Ray Brown and Carmen McRae.
Later in his life, John Collins also spent time teaching music in Los Angeles. He wanted to share his knowledge with new musicians. In 1983, he appeared on an album called Jackson, Johnson, Brown & Company.
His Own Album and Recognition
John Collins recorded one album as the main artist, called The Incredible John Collins. This was his only album where he was the leader.
In 1993, John Collins was honored for his contributions to jazz music. He was inducted into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. He passed away from cancer on October 4, 2001, at the age of 88.
Music John Collins Played On
John Collins played on many albums throughout his career.
As the Leader
- The Incredible John Collins (Nilva)
Playing with Other Artists
John Collins was a sideman on many recordings, meaning he played guitar for other artists' albums. Some of the famous musicians he played with include:
