Sonny Cohn facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sonny Cohn
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | George Thomas Cohn |
| Also known as | Sonny Cohn |
| Born | March 14, 1925 Chicago, Illinois |
| Died | November 7, 2006 (aged 81) Chicago, Illinois |
| Genres | Jazz |
| Occupation(s) | Musician |
| Instruments | Trumpet |
| Years active | 1943–2003 |
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Sonny Cohn (born George Thomas Cohn, March 14, 1925 – November 7, 2006) was an amazing American jazz trumpet player. He played music for over 60 years! Sonny Cohn was famous for playing with two big bands. He spent 15 years with Red Saunders' band. After that, he played for 24 years with the famous Count Basie Orchestra.
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Sonny Cohn's Musical Journey
Early Life and Starting Music
Sonny Cohn was born in Chicago, Illinois. He loved music from a young age. As a teenager, he started playing the trumpet. He joined small music groups around Chicago. One of his first bandmates was King Fleming.
Playing with Red Saunders
In 1945, Sonny Cohn joined Red Saunders' band. Saunders was a well-known bandleader in Chicago. Sonny played with Saunders for 15 years. He even took a break to serve in the military.
When he came back, he rejoined Saunders' group. A fellow musician, Leon Washington, suggested him. Sonny Cohn played on many of Saunders' early recordings. These recordings were for labels like Savoy and National. He also played on records with Big Joe Turner.
Sonny Cohn stayed with Red Saunders through many changes. The band got smaller sometimes. Their main venue, the Club DeLisa, even closed. But Sonny kept playing his trumpet.
Joining Count Basie's Band
In 1960, Sonny Cohn got a big offer. He was asked to join the legendary Count Basie Orchestra. This was a huge step in his career. He played in Basie's trumpet section for 24 years. He traveled the world playing jazz.
Sonny Cohn played on many of Count Basie's famous albums. These included "Kansas City Suite" and "Sinatra at the Sands" with Frank Sinatra. He helped create the classic Basie sound.
Returning to Chicago
Count Basie passed away in 1984. After that, Sonny Cohn moved back to his hometown, Chicago. He continued to play music there. He stayed active as a musician for another two decades. He kept sharing his talent with audiences.
Later Years and Passing
In 2003, Sonny Cohn had heart surgery. He passed away on November 7, 2006. He was 81 years old. His funeral was held in Chicago. He was buried at Burr Oak Cemetery in Illinois.
Sonny Cohn's Recordings
Sonny Cohn played on many important jazz recordings. Most of his work was with the Count Basie Orchestra. He also recorded with other great musicians. These included James Moody and Duke Jordan. His music continues to be enjoyed by jazz fans everywhere.
