Introduction: Billy Higgins, one of the most influential drummers in jazz history, has been celebrated for his extraordinary ability to bring a sense of joy, sensitivity, and creativity to every performance. Over the course of his prolific career, Higgins became a key figure in the development of several jazz movements, particularly hard bop, free jazz, and post-bop. Known for his subtle touch,…

1970 - Dizzy Gillespie Quintet au Théâtre Français de Bordeaux

8 Seconds 1994

... is not perhaps the first instrument that comes to most people's minds when they think of jazz. Piano, drums, bass, sax, sure - but the guitar?

Yet there have been incredible guitarists, men such as Joe Pass, Wes Montgomery, Jim Hall, the legendary Django Reinhardt of course, or in more recent times people like Bill Frisell - great players all, masters of their instrument and incredible musicians.

Another one in that league is Barney Kessel. He was given the nickname "fruitcake" since he'd spent up to 16 hours each day practicing. I guess that's dedication - and the results are stunning.

Here he is with a track from his 1954 album Barney Kessel Plays Standards (Contemporary Records JSLP 50029, C-2514), called You Stepped Out Of A Dream.

Barney Kessel - guitar Bob Cooper - oboe Hampton Hawes - piano Red Mitchell - bass Chuck Thompson - drums

THAD JONES - A Child is Born (for saxophone and bass) 

I Mean You

Mitchell & Mays