Shelton Hemphill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Shelton Hemphill
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Al Sears, Shelton Hemphill, Junior Raglin, Django Reinhardt, Lawrence Brown, Harry Carney, Johnny Hodges at the Aquarium Jazz Club on 52nd Street in Manhattan, ca. November 1946
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Shelton Hemphill |
| Born | March 16, 1906 Birmingham, Alabama, US |
| Died | January 6, 1960 (aged 53) New York City, New York, US |
| Genres | Orchestral jazz, swing, big band |
| Occupations | Jazz trumpeter |
| Instruments | Trumpet |
| Years active | 1924–late 1950s |
Shelton "Scad" Hemphill (March 16, 1906 – January 6, 1960) was an American jazz trumpeter. He was known for his amazing trumpet playing. His music career lasted from the mid-1920s through the late 1950s. He played with some of the biggest names in jazz.
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Shelton Hemphill: A Jazz Trumpet Star
Shelton Hemphill was born in Birmingham, Alabama. He started playing music at a young age. When he was still a teenager, he joined Fred Longshaw's band. This band played with the famous blues singer Bessie Smith on her recordings in 1924 and 1925.
Early Musical Journey
In 1924, at just 18 years old, Shelton went to Wilberforce University in Ohio. While there, he was part of Horace Henderson's student band. He played alongside other talented musicians like Ted and Castor McCord.
Later in the 1920s, Shelton moved to New York City. This was a big step for his career. In New York, he played with jazz greats like Benny Carter and Chick Webb.
Playing with the Big Bands
Shelton Hemphill became a key member of the Mills Blue Rhythm Band. He played with this popular group from 1931 to 1937. After that, he joined Louis Armstrong's band, staying with them from 1937 to 1944.
From 1944 to 1949, Shelton played in Duke Ellington's famous band. These were some of the most exciting years of his career. He helped create the sound of these legendary big bands.
Later Years and Legacy
In the 1950s, Shelton Hemphill continued to play music. He performed occasionally in New York City. However, he faced some health challenges later in the decade. These health issues led him to step away from music.
Shelton Hemphill passed away in New York City on January 6, 1960. He was 53 years old. His contributions to jazz music are still remembered.
Shelton Hemphill's son, Barry Shelton Hemphill, also became a talented musician. Barry had a long career as a vocal artist in the US Army Chorus. He retired with a high rank. Barry Hemphill was also the Artistic Director of The Metropolitan Chorus in Arlington, Virginia, for 38 years. For over 20 years, he has been the Conductor of the well-known Kennedy Center Messiah Sing in Washington, D.C.
