George "Kid Sheik" Cola, often simply known as Kid Sheik, was a distinguished figure in the world of traditional New Orleans jazz. Born on December 15, 1908, in New Orleans, he was a trumpeter known for his hot and expressive playing style that harkened back to the golden era of jazz in the early 20th century. Kid Sheik became synonymous with the rich musical heritage of the Crescent City, taking his moniker from the popular 1921 song "The Sheik of Araby," which he often performed.

Kid Sheik carved out a niche for himself within the revivalist movement of New Orleans jazz, flourishing particularly from the 1950s onwards. He played with various aggregations, including the Storyville Shakers and later his own Kid Sheik's Swingsters, demonstrating an unyielding commitment to the preservation and celebration of classic jazz forms. His career spanned several decades, during which he performed both domestically and internationally, spreading the vibrant spirit of New Orleans jazz to appreciative audiences around the globe. His tireless work earned him a revered status among jazz aficionados, and his recordings, such as "Spirit of New Orleans Vol. 7" and "Kid Sheik's First European Tour 1963," serve as a testament to his enduring artistic legacy. Kid Sheik passed away on November 7, 1996, but the joyous strains of his trumpet live on as a reminder of New Orleans' perpetual place at the heart of jazz history.

Genres

Jazz Trumpet

New Orleans Jazz

Latest Release

I'll meet you when schoolday time is over

George 'Kid Sheik' Cola

Album - 10 Tracks - Released March 10, 2023