Rozelle Claxton facts for kids

Rozelle Claxton (born February 5, 1913, in Bartlett, Tennessee – died March 30, 1995, in Lake Forest, Illinois) was a talented American jazz musician. He was known for playing the piano and organ. He also worked as an arranger, which means he helped decide how different instruments would play a song.

Who Was Rozelle Claxton?

Rozelle Claxton was a very important part of the jazz music scene. He was a skilled pianist, meaning he played the piano. He was also an arranger. An arranger takes a piece of music and decides which instruments will play which parts. They also figure out how the music should sound overall. Claxton helped many bands create their unique sound.

Starting His Musical Journey

Rozelle Claxton began learning to play the piano when he was 11 years old. He quickly became very good. By the time he was 17, he was already playing music professionally. His first professional job was with a band led by Clarence Davis. This band even worked with the famous musician W.C. Handy.

Playing with Jazz Legends

In the 1930s, Rozelle Claxton played and arranged music for Harlan Leonard. He also performed solo shows in Chicago. After that, he played with other great musicians like Ernie Fields and Eddie South. For a short time, he even filled in as a pianist for Count Basie's famous orchestra.

During the 1940s, Claxton continued to work with many well-known jazz artists. These included Walter Fuller, George Dixon, Earl Hines, Red Norvo, Jimmie Lunceford, and Andy Kirk. He was a busy and in-demand musician.

Later Career and Solo Work

In the 1950s, Rozelle Claxton often played piano for singers. He helped them sound great on stage and in recordings. One famous singer he worked with was Pearl Bailey.

From 1959 and into the 1960s, he played with Franz Jackson. Claxton also kept performing by himself in Chicago. He played both the piano and the organ during these solo shows. Rozelle Claxton had a long and successful career in jazz music.