I had listened to Joe Turner. When they’d book Joe there, I’d play the blues behind him.
About Jay McShann
James Columbus “Jay” McShannwas an American jazz pianist, vocalist, composer, and bandleader. He led bands in Kansas City, Missouri, that included Charlie Parker, Bernard Anderson, Walter Brown, and Ben Webster.
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More quotes from Jay McShann
It was my first time in Kansas City. In about two or three days I had a gig at a place called The Monroe Inn.
American blues, jazz, and swing bandleader, pianist and singer
I had listened to Joe Turner. When they’d book Joe there, I’d play the blues behind him.
American blues, jazz, and swing bandleader, pianist and singer
They had the music being piped right out on the street. I’d be three or four blocks from there and I couldn’t get there fast enough because I’d hear old Joe holler them words.
American blues, jazz, and swing bandleader, pianist and singer
We used to play the Savoy Ballroom, and we always had a boogie tune in the set. Bands like Tommy Dorsey used to do a little boogie woogie. The big bands.
American blues, jazz, and swing bandleader, pianist and singer
My family was a Christian family. But I had to get to Kansas to play the blues.
American blues, jazz, and swing bandleader, pianist and singer
I was listening to all those lyrics and trying to take in everything that was happening. I was completely excited. It was one of the greatest times that I had listening to music.
American blues, jazz, and swing bandleader, pianist and singer
We didn’t let a night go by that we didn’t play.
American blues, jazz, and swing bandleader, pianist and singer
We had an old Victrola with the old bulldog they used to have there. The horn would come out.
American blues, jazz, and swing bandleader, pianist and singer
As long as Pete and Joe are there, it’s gonna be jumping.
American blues, jazz, and swing bandleader, pianist and singer